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County 4-H kids compete at state horse show

Eight 4-H youth from Carlton County competed in the Minnesota 4-H state horse show last month, joining nearly 600 youth from across the state.

Held Sept. 16-19, the show requires 4-H students to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in hippology (equine science and husbandry), horse judging (studying and measuring an animal against an accepted ideal), horse training and achievement, speech and demonstrations about interest in horses or the horse industry, showmanship and drill team skills.

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, an extension educator who manages the 4-H Horse Project in Minnesota. "These experiences contribute to their success in school, community, and futures."

The following local youth (first name and last initial) represented Carlton County at the state competition:

• Rayna K. participated in horse training willing, Level 2.

• Kyra H. placed ninth in pole weaving, 10th in ranch pleasure, ninth in trail class, 10th in showmanship at halter, and sixth in hunt seat equitation.

• Riley M. placed sixth in pole weaving, 10th in jumping figure 8, ninth in key race, second in ranch pleasure and fourth in Western horsemanship.

• Ella H. placed 10th in Western pleasure, eighth in Western horsemanship, and eighth in showmanship at halter.

• Cora B. placed 10th in pole weaving and ninth in key race.

• Keaira C. placed second in barrels and sixth in jumping figure 8.

• Jasmine A. participated in games and pleasure classes

• Aviana B. participated with a horse-less project.

To learn more about the Minnesota 4-H Horse Project, contact local extension educator Katie Siltanen at 218-384-8682 or go online to https://z.umn.edu/4HHorseProject.