Become a 4-H horse judge

Do you love horses? You can become a 4-H horse judge! To train and be certified to judge 4-H horse shows, you must be at least 18 years of age and not a current 4-H member.

The horse judges' training and certification seminar is offered every spring for new and re-certifying judges.

The 2024 training will be held March 22 and 23 at the Leatherdale Equine Center in St. Paul.

New judges

Friday session from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

This session will focus on the Danish system of awards/4-H philosophy, professionalism/etiquette, ethics, scoring systems, miniature horse/drill team, training program, games and trail.

Saturday session from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

This session will teach you all you need to know about 4-H horse judging. You will watch live classes, listen to the critique and then judge classes yourself. After lunch at 1:30 p.m., all new applicants will take the written test and interview. Once you’re on the list, you will be invited to judge 4-H horse events at county and state fairs.

Re-certifying judges

Judges must re-certify every three years to stay on the 4-H horse judges list. The Friday and Saturday sessions are required to re-certify as a 4-H horse judge.

Spectators are welcome, but pre-registration is required, including 4-H’ers, adult volunteer leaders, parents, etc.
There is a $10 spectator fee that you can pay at the door after you register online. Check the registration form for group rates at local hotels.

View the full 2024 judges' certification seminar schedule.