Seventy youth from across Missouri competed at the Missouri 4-H State Horse Judging Contest held at William Woods University, where they evaluated eight classes of horses and presented oral reasons defending their rankings. The contest, part of the 2026 Missouri 4-H Mane Event series, featured junior (ages 8-13) and senior (ages 14-18) divisions, with awards recognizing top individuals and teams in overall, halter, performance, and oral reasons categories. Notable winners included Ivy Coolman (youngest division), Paisley O’Dell (junior overall), and Natalie Lovenduski (senior overall), with counties like Camden, Andrew, and Callaway earning team honors.
Missouri 4-H officials highlighted the contest’s role in developing youth skills in observation, decision-making, and public speaking while deepening their equine industry knowledge. They also announced expanded opportunities for 2026, including participation in national events such as the Eastern National Roundup and the All American Quarter Horse Congress. The event continues to foster leadership and industry expertise among young horse enthusiasts statewide.
