Barry Stewart, chairman of Strawfest, a premier youth beef show at Carp, says "both girls are at the top of their game." He should know. He’s been in the barnyard training them, and has watched them and most other eastern showmen at county fairs. After the shows, he provides critiques of the performances with the view of improving them and the quality of competition.

Abigail says her father, John Albert Argue, a director of Strawfest, contributed greatly to her and her sister’s successes. "Dad helped out 100 per cent, and so did my grandmother Kathleen Argue. Mom’s always there cheering us on."

An early childhood education worker, Abigail’s response on how to handle a calf comes as no surprise. "Tender loving care," she says. But the work leading up to a show is most important. Training is a key, as well as competition. "Competition with my sister pushes both of us to do better," she says. She recommends that young show people take part in as many local shows as possible.

High quality animals are also part of the winning process. At Orangeville, Abigail had reserve Angus heifer and Allison reserve Angus steer. Allison had third place steer at the Queen’s Guineas last year and expects to be back at the top of the heap again this year.

Strawfest, only 10 minutes from their farm, is the next big show for the Argue sisters. "The pressure is on," says Abigail. On June 21, the two women will be competing against 170 of the best young beef showpeople in Ontario and Quebec.