LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky State Fair held its annual Talent Classic throughout this weekend, but this year was a little different from previous ones.

What You Need To Know

  • The Talent Classic took place over three days at the Kentucky State Fair. Different age groups competed each day

  • Kids ages seven to 12 competed on Sunday, Aug. 18

  • This was the first time that kids under the age of 13 competed in the Talent Classic

  • Twelve-year-old Lyla Smith sang and won first place

There were three age group categories for this year’s competition. People ages 22 and up competed on Friday, people ages 13 to 21 competed on Saturday, and kids ages seven to 12 competed on Sunday, Aug. 12.

“To be able to participate this year is new for our seven to 12-year-olds,” said Ian Cox, a spokesperson for the Kentucky State Fair. “Prior, it started at age 13, so we have brand new talent coming to the stage. We have 54 participants across the three different divisions.”

Twelve-year-old Lyla Smith took part in the competition on Sunday. She has always loved to sing and started taking voice lessons two years ago. Her performance at the Talent Classic was the first time she had ever competed.

“I’ve been feeling really nervous, but it’s also been really, really exciting because I’ve just never done something like this before, so to get the new experience… it’s really, really fun,” Lyla said.

Despite feeling nervous, Lyla did well and impressed the judges. She plans to continue her singing career from here.

“I’m thinking about doing more competitions like this, just getting more into it,” Lyla said. “I love doing musicals and just the shows from my local academy, so just keep it going.”

Lyla ended up winning first place. Because the Talent Classic’s new sponsor Wellnext has allowed for cash prizes to be given to the winners, she won $100 for her first place win.

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