Source: Anna Draeger, horse Extension associate

The top 4-H Horse Program youth from 26 states gathered for this year’s Eastern National 4-H Horse Roundup at the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center in Louisville, Kentucky, on November 7–9. 

Annually, senior-level 4-H youth qualify at the state and regional levels to represent their states at the national contest. Competitors put their abilities to the test in a host of challenging events, including individual and team presentations, public speaking, Horse Bowl (trivia), hippology (equine knowledge testing), and horse judging. Contestant attendance was up from last year, for a total of 271 youth.

The three-day national event also provided ample opportunities for connection and potential career exploration. The nonprofit group Amplify Horse Racing continued its popular Thoroughbred Discovery Day for ENRU participants at Keeneland, providing an opportunity for in-depth exploration of the Thoroughbred industry and the variety of careers offered. An official college fair was also held in conjunction with the contest for the first time this year, connecting exceptional equine youth with collegiate program representatives. 

Youth participants at this level demonstrate expansive equine knowledge, in addition to the development of vital life skills such as decision-making, resilience, critical thinking, and professionalism. This has set them on the path to thrive, cultivating a spark through horses that ignites their motivation to become impactful industry and community leaders. The Eastern National 4-H Horse Roundup is made possible through the multi-state collaboration of extension professionals, sponsors, volunteers, and coaches, in addition to the participating youth and their families. 

The Kentucky 4-H Horse Program offers multiple ways for youth to pursue their interests in horses, whether they own one or not. Two additional key events include the Kentucky State Fair 4-H Horse Show and the State Horse Knowledge Contests. Senior-level 4-Hers are encouraged to apply for the Equine Task Force leadership group, which connects youth from across the state to promote and assist with horse program initiatives at the county, state, and regional level. Additional opportunities for involvement include the Trail Riding Project and the Horse Academy. 

For more information on these programs and others provided by the Kentucky 4-H Horse Program, check online at https://afs.mgcafe.uky.edu/extension/4-h-youth/horses or contact the [COUNTY NAME] Extension office.

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