Abigail Brocwell, Thomas Kurek crowned Crawford County Junior Fair royalty

BUCYRUS — There may have been little in the way of competitors, but as the newest Crawford County Junior Fair royalty, Abigail Brocwell and Thomas Kurek knew not to take on their roles lightly.

Brocwell and Kurek were crowned the 2018-2019 Crawford County Junior Fair Queen and King at Sunday night’s royalty contest that kicked off the start of the 2018 Crawford County Fair. The pair were the only contestants to submit their names for each race.

“I know Thomas and I were the only ones running, but I don’t really think we felt any different,” said Brocwell. “We still had to answer the questions to our best ability and do the interview the best we could. For us, I don’t think it was any different than if we had four or five other people with us.”

“It’s always about doing your best at everything you do,” agreed Kurek. “It didn’t matter if it was 100 people doing it or there’s one person doing it. I was going to prepare to the best of my ability and do everything I can, and I’m sure Abby would have done the same. It’s just about doing the best we can at all times.”

The pair gave strong answers during the prepared and fishbowl questions.

Brocwell discussed how 4-H has prepared her for her future medical career. “Through 4-H I had the courage to try new things and meet new people. With practice and hard work, I’ve been able to successfully complete my projects. These traits I believe will help me when I go into the medical field.”

When asked about the best piece of advice given to her, Brocwell said it came from a quote her father, Dave, often says. “It doesn’t matter if you fall during your life. You’re never a failure as long as you try to get back up,” she said.

Kurek, who was crowned Junior Fair Prince in 2017, discussed how that experience prepared him to run for king. “By being part of a court, I really got to understand not only the shows, but how the fair works,” Kurek said. “I got to make new connections, meet new people, and just overall gain a positive experience from it. It’s what really encouraged me to come out for king.”

As part of his fishbowl question, Kurek said his role model was his father, Edward. “My dad is somebody who constantly works hard for our family. He is always supportive of us and always multitasks between all the various activities we do,” Kurek said. “I wouldn’t be the person I am today if my dad wasn’t who he is.”

There will actually be two Kureks on the Crawford County royalty court this year. Thomas’ younger brother, Daniel, was crowned prince.

“It’s going to be a fun experience,” said Thomas Kurek. “We’re going to get to drive around together and it’ll be a fun time.”

The court was rounded out with Sydnee Corwin crowned Princess and Sheba Sulser receiving Princess Attendant honors. Corin Feik, Miya Kinn, Amber Ransom, and Brooke Slagle also competed for princess.