4-H youth from McLeod County participated in the Minnesota 4-H State Horse show Sept. 16-19, with seven top-10 finishes.
This year, 591 youth 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.
Chloe Wieweck of the McLeod County 4-H Riders earned three top-10 placings, taking first in Western Pleasure-Pleasure Type for grades 6-9, and third place in Horse Training Step 1 and Hunt Seat Pleasure-Pleasure Type.
Sophie Dolezal of the McLeod County 4-H Riders also took three top-10 spots, with a second in English Showmanship, third in Hunt Seat Pleasure and fourth in Hunt Seat Equitation for grade 7.
Grace Swaja of the Acoma Acorns finished 10th in Jumping Figure 8 in the grade 11 class.
Other McLeod County horse show participants were Dale Onnika, Margaret Goebel and Myranda Uecker.
Youth 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. Youth may participate if they own or lease a horse. There are even options for youth 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.”
