Representative Ghanbari Honored with Battle for the Bacon Win

In a fierce battle of barnyard glory, State Representative Haraz N. Ghanbari (R-Perrysburg) brought home the bacon — literally — earning the coveted title of Grand Champion in the 2025 Battle for the Bacon: The Legislator Showdown at the Ohio State Fair.

Ghanbari, now in his third elected term representing nearly all of Wood County, strutted into the show ring with confidence, coached by none other than Wood County’s own Claire Lampe — a seasoned 4-H standout and sophomore at Otsego High School. His co-star? A seven-month-old Crossbred Barrow named “Ice Cream.” 

“The real champions are our 4-H and FFA youth,” said Ghanbari. “Claire was an outstanding coach and ambassador for Wood County and the entire state. I’m proud to share this win with her — and Ice Cream.”

Ghanbari’s gratitude for the youth mentors was shared by state leaders who see the broader value of the event.

“Congratulations to our Grand Champion of this year’s Battle for the Bacon at the Ohio State Fair, a fun, lighthearted event that brings together legislators and youth livestock exhibitors,” said Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge. “We hope all our participants gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication, skill, and passion that drive Ohio agriculture.” 

The third annual event, hosted by the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Pork Council, brought together members from both sides of the aisle — Republicans and Democrats from the House and Senate — for an evening of spirited competition and fellowship. The event paired lawmakers with youth from across the state to showcase the art of swine showmanship while celebrating Ohio’s rich agricultural heritage and the impressive mentorship of 4-H and FFA youth.

“Having grown up in 4-H and FFA, it was an absolute honor to watch the interaction of Claire and all the other youth coaching the legislators on showing and the incredible outcomes,” said House Agriculture Committee Chairman State Rep. Roy Klopfenstein (R-Haviland). “It was a privilege and a pleasure to serve as one of the judges to showcase the skills of not only the youth, but the legislator’s ability to learn.”

That sentiment was shared by others at the event, including fellow judge Rep. Bob Peterson (R-Sabina), who also highlighted the strong partnerships formed between the legislators and their youth coaches.

“I was very proud of my fellow legislators and the 4-H exhibitors who helped train them,” said Peterson. “Rep. Ghanbari, especially, did a great job presenting his hog throughout the show.”