Times Observer Photo by Heather Cathcart-Norris Kale Jespersen poses with Butch, who came to the Jespersens from an Amish farm when he was ready for retirement from fieldwork.

Kale Jespersen, a 17-year-old from Youngsville, grew up with multiple generations of draft horse owners.

Walking into the draft horse barn, Jespersen indicated that most of one side was filled with family-owned horses.

Jespersen said his favorite thing to do with the gentle giants is to ride them and give them exercise. “It is the most enjoyable part for me.”

When asked about his favorite part of the fair, Jespersen said, “It is all fun.” He also said, “Seeing the reactions on people’s faces when they realize just how big draft horses are is always entertaining.”

Jespersen will compete in the draft horse halter and hitch classes during fair week. Additionally, he will be participating in the costume contest with his younger sister, Lilly. He will be a jockey, and she will be a Triple Crown winner.

Beyond the world of draft horses, Jesperson has signed up for delayed entry into the U.S. Air Force. He will head off for basic training when he finishes his senior year in June 2025. He said, “I will miss these horses; they have always been a part of my life.”

When he is not enjoying the fair and his draft horses, he is on the Youngsville wrestling and track teams.