Saige Katherine Sowa Crowned 2024 Fort Bend County Fair Queen
In Fort Bend County, a tradition spanning nearly a century came to a thrilling fruition on Friday, September 27, 2024, as Saige Katherine Sowa was named the Fort Bend County Fair Queen. 16-year-old Saige, a junior at Stephen F. Austin High School in Fort Bend ISD, emerged victorious amidst a competition filled with the county's finest young ambassadors.
The daughter of Bill and Lori Sowa, Saige Sowa followed in the regal footsteps of Kathryn Tompkins, the 2023 Fair Queen, who spent the previous year promoting the fair at various events including the prestigious RodeoHouston and the Fair's Summer Night Gala. Saige's brother, Connor, a sophomore, shares his sister's passion for agriculture as they both participate as livestock exhibitors at the Fair.
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Saige Sowa is no stranger to the spotlight. In 2022, she triumphed as the Fort Bend County Fair Jr. Queen. A 14-year ballet student, Saige also stands out as a BalletForte company dancer. She has taken on leadership positions as the second-year FFA Secretary and Journey 4-H President. Combining a love of service with her talents, she serves as the Membership Recognition Chair of the National Charity League – Sugar Land Jewels chapter.
It's not just her dancing and leadership that distinguishes Saige; she's also an accomplished artist. Sowa has earned several top home economic recognitions for her photography, hand needlework, and baking. She will display these talents alongside her steer, Showtime, at this year's Fair.
With a $5,000 scholarship among her prizes, Saige has set her sights on the Texas A&M undergraduate program in Biomedical Sciences, aspiring to be a veterinarian. She credits her community and faith for the opportunities and friendships that have brought her this far and plans to give back to the community in the future.
The Fort Bend County Fair, established in 1933, remains a cornerstone of the community. With its emphasis on youth education and a generous scholarship program, the Fair has grown into one of the largest and most successful in Texas. The newly crowned Queen, Saige Sowa, is now tasked with the responsibility of representing the Fair throughout its run and serving as a Fair ambassador for the next 12 months.
The competition for the title was equally riveting, with 11 remarkable contestants vying for the crown. First Runner-Up was awarded to Maddison Malek from Needville High School, and the congenial Hannah Funderburk of Foster High School received the title of Miss Congeniality. The contest reflected the diversity of Fort Bend County, with candidates hailing from each corner of the community.