Banjo, Guitar and Mandolin

Top String Players Claim State Fair Honors

The top string instrument players put their talents to the test in the Banjo, Guitar and Mandolin Contests, held Saturday, August 10, and Sunday August 11, at the 2024 Iowa State Fair.

In the Banjo contest, Darin Manson of Albia won first place. Jerry Pitt of Melcher claimed second place and Mike Gonzalez of Des Moines earned third place.

John Waite of Des Moines won first place in the Guitar contest. James Winterbottom of Waukee claimed second place and Jack Curtis of West Des Moines earned third place.

Kaitlyn Briggs of New Virginia claimed first place in the Mandolin competition. Ben McClure of Des Moines took second place and Steve Anderson of Marshalltown won third place.

The contest was part of “Rural Americana Olde Tyme Competitions” in Farm Bureau Pioneer Hall. A first prize of $5 and ribbons were awarded to each class