Bureau County 4-H youth recently participated in the Illinois 4-H Horse Judging Contest at Black Hawk College East. The competition involved evaluating six classes of horses, with older participants also competing in the Reasons division where they provided oral justifications for their placements. This event allows youth to demonstrate their knowledge of equine-related subject matter in a competitive setting, helping them refine their observation, decision-making, and communication skills.

Horse judging competitions through 4-H challenge young people to deepen their understanding of horse evaluation criteria, regardless of horse ownership. Participants gain knowledge of horse health, breed characteristics, management, and feeding, while also developing life skills such as objective reasoning, decision-making, public speaking, and teamwork. These educational contests related to the equine industry provide opportunities for youth passionate about horses to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Among the Bureau County 4-H youth who participated in the contest were Gabby Carden, Olivia Erjavsek, Gretchen Carden, Quincy Hochstatter, and Payton Frueh. Quincy Hochstatter placed seventh in the individual non-reasons division, and the Bureau County 4-H team placed sixth in the non-reasons division. For more information about Bureau County 4-H, individuals can contact the local Extension Program Coordinator, Sarah Poignant, at 815-875-2878 or [email protected].