The Issue:

The pandemic made many changes throughout the 4-H program, one main one being that connections and opportunities suffered because people were not able to leave their houses. Programs converted to virtual making it difficult to reach all youth because not all had access to internet. This also caused some programs to be put on hold due to lack of attendance. One of the programs that was paused was the Area-wide Horse Judging Clinic, but the time had finally come to bring the program back and help bringing energy back into the regional and state 4-H Horse activities.

The Educational Program Response:

For a response, Ballard and Calloway County Agents put their heads together with partnership of the Western Counties Horse Management Team and the Murray State University Equine Center to host a horse judging clinic. The goal for this event was to help grow local 4-H Horse Programs and to give them the experience of what a state-level 4-H Horse Judging competition would be like.

The clinic was beginner-friendly to make it comfortable for those that have never participated in horse judging and great for those that have not participated in the event in a while. The day started in a classroom setting with showing youth how to judge a horse using a life size model, how to take notes, and give their scores. Then the youth went to the arena where they judged horse pairs in halter and performance classes. Murray State University provided the equine and riders for the day, while agents and volunteers instructed the youth. The youth were also able to hear from a local member of the 4-H State Equine Task Force, Aerie Suggs, to share her experience and entice more youth to get involved.

Participants and Program Impact:

There was 49 youth in participation with 20 adult volunteers and five agents, all from Ballard, Calloway, Christian, Crittenden, Lyon, McCracken, Henderson, Logan, and Todd Counties. Having participants from so many different locations truly shows that youth are ready to get back into the equine world. In the survey 98% reported that they learned something new about horse judging. Many youth inquired about more information on the State 4-H Horse Judging Competition and wanting to become more involved. The clinic was also a great way for youth to meet others from other counties and make connections with other youth in the equine world. We cannot wait to offer this event again next year.