BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—As the dust settles on the Crawford County Fair, King Jayden Ash and Queen Addie are looking forward to their new roles as ambassadors for the fair. Both incoming seniors, the pair is now preparing for a year of travel and mentorship.

Jayden Ash, representing the Buckeye Stars 4-H Club and the Buckeye Central FFA chapter, shows market broilers and market turkeys. For Ash, the decision to seek the title was rooted in his desire to support the next generation of exhibitors.

“I decided to run mainly just to be a good role model for the youth that I always see come through, especially the first-year members and whatnot,” Ash said. “A lot of them are more scared since it’s their first time being here. So, if I can create a welcoming environment for those younger members, I wish to do so.”

Queen Addie, a member of the Young Riders 4-H Club, managed numerous Department 1 projects alongside her horse, “Tequilla Sunrise Bar,” also known as “Crimson.”

Addie stated that she decided to run for queen because she’s grateful for the opportunities the Crawford County Fair has given her, and she wants to give back to the community.

When asked for advice for future royalty candidates, both emphasized the importance of persistence and leaping. Ash urged other exhibitors “not to overthink it,” noting that while it may seem like a “daunting task,” it is an opportunity youth should “take advantage of while you’re still able to.” Addie echoed this sentiment, advising others to “continuously work hard,” adding that while it is common advice, if you “seriously put in the effort, eventually your hard work will pay off.”

As the fair circuit continues across the state, both royals are excited for the travel ahead. Ash noted that while he travels to a few fairs in his personal life, he is thrilled to do so as a representative of Crawford County. “Getting the opportunity to do so and do so is a great thing to take advantage of,” he said. Addie, who mentioned she “loves a good road trip,” is similarly eager to meet new people during her travels.

The pair concluded by offering heartfelt gratitude to those who supported them. Jayden Ash extended his thanks to the broader community: “I’d just like to thank everyone throughout 4-H and FFA who’s helped me,” he said, specifically naming his advisors, the junior and senior fair staff, and his parents “for ultimately convincing me to sign up.”

Addie offered a wide range of thanks to her support system, stating, “First and foremost I’d like to thank God for the opportunities He’s gave me.” She also expressed gratitude for her family, her friends, and their parents for encouraging her to “take a deep breath.” She gave a special thank you to her medical team: “I also want to take the time to show my gratitude for the doctors who put in a ton of effort to make sure I could still accomplish my goals.”

Addie was not in attendance due to her participation in a horse competition at the Ohio State Fair, so there are no court pictures with her in them at this point. She recorded her responses to questions ahead of time.

2026 Crawford County Fair Royalty Court

King – Jayden Ash

Queen – Addie Dunford

Princess – Ainsley Johnson

King 1st Attendant – Kahne Tackett

King 2nd Attendant – Robert Wilson

Queen Attendant – Trinity Spackey

Princess Attendant – Keira Diekmann