(Editor’s Note: The following article was submitted by Benton County 4-H.)
Nine 4-H youth from Benton County participated in the Minnesota 4-H State Horse show Sept. 16-19, 2022. This year, 591 youths from across the state participated in the annual event at the Minnesota State Fair. 4-H’ers demonstrate their skills and knowledge in hippology (showing knowledge and understanding of equine science and husbandry), horse judging (study of an animal, measuring it against an accepted ideal), horse training and achievement, speech and demonstrations about interest in horses or the horse industry, showmanship and drill team skills.
Youths who participate in the Minnesota 4-H Horse Project learn about show, trail, and endurance riding; test their horse knowledge at quiz bowls or on judging teams, and study horse science. Youths may participate if they own or lease a horse. There are even options for youths who are interested in horses, but don’t have access to one in their community.
“Through the Minnesota 4-H State Horse Show, youth build communications skills, gain deeper learning and interest in horses, and build relationships with caring adults,” said Renee Kostick, Extension Educator who manages the 4-H horse project in Minnesota. “These experiences contribute to their success in school, community, and futures.”
The following youths are members of the Benton County 4-H who attended the MN State Horse Show in September: Grace Kampa, Ella Sanderson, Kendra Demo, Brittany Wannarka, Nicole Schaefer, Travis Boyle, Emma Froelich and Haden McKay.
“Grace has been part of the horse project for many years. It has been a joy watching her chase and achieve her goals,” said Benton County 4-H Horse Leader Robin McKay. “She has always taken the younger kids under her wing; helping them with their skills and horsemanship and also making them feel like part of the group. Her dedication, enthusiasm, leadership, and smile will be greatly missed.”
The following youths were members of the Benton County delegation:
13th Grade
Grace Kampa, Shooting Stars, seventh in Pole Weaving, eighth in Showmanship at Halter, 12th in Jump and 15th in Final Ranch Pleasure Ride Off.
11th Grade
Nicole Schaefer, Green Acres, ninth in Pole Weaving (out of 47).
Brittany Wannarka, Shooting Stars, eighth in Hunt Seat Equitation and 8th in Showmanship in Halter
Haden McKay, Shooting Stars, fourth in Senior Breakaway and second in Senior Team Roping
Travis Boyle, Green Acres, 13th in Pole Weaving (out of 47), 12th in Jump Figure 8 (out of 50), 26th in Key Race (out of 50) and 25th in Barrels (out of 47)
To learn more about Minnesota 4-H Horse Project, contact local extension educator Ann Olson, at 320.968.5077 and visit the website, z.umn.edu/4HHorseProject
