The Race to Convention!

NASCAR.  Dozens of cars, each with their own drivers and sponsor designs plastering the sides of the vehicles, that drive around the same track for hundreds of laps.  Spectators taking their stab at predicting the results and pit crews always on guard, preparing for those few moments when they are needed.  All competitors want the same thing...to cross the finish line first.

I'll be honest...I've never really understood NASCAR or found the same level of excitement that some do.  It's just a bunch of cars driving in a circle for hours and it's really only the last few laps that count, right?  Wrong.  It's not until I started comparing NASCAR to the race that preparing for convention has become, that I started to understand the enthusiasm behind it.

You're probably thinking to yourself, "Yeah right, she's crazy. FFA members don't get to drive hundreds of miles an hour and this organization is way more exciting than some spectator sport."  Well let's think about it...  At last year's state convention it is likely that thousands of FFA members took their places at the start line and  couldn't wait to get back to their chapters so they could start their race toward reaching the goals they just set for themselves.  For the past year, FFA members from across the state have been making laps around the track preparing for CDE competitions, finalizing proficiency applications, reciting speeches, and studying their FFA facts.  And just like in NASCAR, as we approach these final laps the excitement is building and the pressure is on!

Every second of every minute counts.  There may have been a few times throughout the year when our engines failed or we got a flat tire, but our pit crews--advisors, parents, teams, and classmates--have been there every step of the way for us as we work our way toward the finish line, and the proud sponsors that have made all of this possible will see the outcome of their investments.


So it's petal to the metal as we all race to the top because in just a few short days we will be raising the checkered flags.  All our drivers' hard work and dedication will be recognized as they cross the finish line and the spectators will be filled with pride and joy as they see their favorite competitors reach their goals.

The State Officer team hopes that you are as excited for the Daytona 500 of MN FFA as we are, because the 84th Annual MN State FFA Convention is upon us!  Fasten your seat belts and get ready for the race of your life!

Stationed by the Ear of Corn,
Sabrina