Two 4-H youth members from Koochiching County participated in the Minnesota 4-H State Horse Show Sept. 16-19, 2022. This year, 591 youth from across the state participated in the annual event at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. 4-H’ers demonstrated their skills and knowledge in hippology (showing knowledge and understanding of equine science and husbandry), horse judging (study of an animal, measuring it 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 communication skills, gain deeper learning and interest in horses and build relationships with caring adults,” said Renee Kostick, Extension educator who manages the 4-H horse project in Minnesota. “These experiences contribute to their success in school, community and futures.”
The following youth were members of the Koochiching County delegation:
- Mary Rosenthal and her horse, Mick, participated at the grade 6 level in the four game classes: poles, key hole, jumping figure 8 and barrels.
- Melita Rosenthal and her horse, Josie, participated at the grade 12 level in the four game classes and placed 6th in poles, 4th in key hole and 7th in jumping figure 8.
Both girls are members of the State Top Stars 4-H Club in International Falls, which is led by adult volunteers Jody Reller and Mary Lou Mortenson.