The Shootout is a first of its kind academic competition to be held at a major Texas stock show. Participants have the opportunity to review online educational guides in five major areas of animal production: Beef, Poultry, Swine, Rabbits, Sheep and Goat. The contest kicks off with a written test followed by the next portion of the competition where the youth will demonstrate their knowledge of animal production skills. A champion will be selected in each division, in addition to the naming of an overall champion!!!

The Beef Quiz Bowl competition seeks to provide a variety of positive educational experiences. The competition was newly added in 2003 to promote agricultural education. It consists of teams of four competing on a head to head basis answering beef cattle science based questions. Development of the competition was to provide an educational event for youth that not only teaches the competitors about beef, but also enhances their practices of life skills in the areas of self-discipline, observation, listening, and making and defending decisions. The competition allows the youth involved to develop reasoning and critical-thinking abilities, develop poise, self discipline and self confidence, and work as a member of a team to achieve a goal, all while teaching cooperation and teamwork among the members. Equally as important, Beef Quiz Bowl is an event that allows youth that may not have the financial means of raising a beef project to participate and still obtain a great deal of knowledge in the beef project area.