Prior to the naming of the 2012 Hamilton County 4-H Fair Queen Court announcement, friends Kyleigh Kimbrell and Christy Kettler told each other they voted for one another for Miss Congeniality. Seconds later the 17-year-old Hamilton Southeastern senior heard her name.

“I was not expecting it at all,” Kimbrell said.

After receiving her sash, a bouquet of flowers and hug from 2011 Fair Queen Phoebe Davis, Kimbrell returned to her spot with other contestants only to her hear name called again – this time as fourth runner-up.

“It was a double shock,” she said. “I should have just kept my surprised face on.”

Kimbrell is the daughter of Keith and Lillian Kimbrell of Fishers. She said the best part of being on court was attending new projects and shows and becoming closer friends with other court members. The worst part was being on court and having animals at the fair. To care for her livestock, Kimbrell arrived an hour and a half earlier than other court members. Her days lasted from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day of the fair.

“Being Miss Congeniality it’s not expected but it helps to have a smile on your face,” she said. “It’s been a tough week, but I love being on the court.”