The 64th annual Pennsylvania State 4-H Horse Show took place at the Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg, with over 640 youth from more than 50 counties participating in 80 performance classes. The show is the final competition of the year for 4-H horse members enrolled in performance horse projects, with events including showmanship, horsemanship, equitation, and more. Class champions were awarded ribbons, custom plates, and jackets, while reserve champions received gift certificates.
The Pennsylvania 4-H Recreational and Alternative Equine Activities programs include the Hoof Hour Awards recognition, promoting alternative activities with horses and setting attainable goals for youth. Jefferson County member Emma Wilson achieved 500 hours and was recognized at the State Horse Show. Results from the show included first place wins for Calista Reitz, Hunter Brown, and Kolton Hannold, with other Jefferson County participants placing in various classes.
There are over 4,000 4-H horse projects involving youth in Pennsylvania, aimed at developing life skills and knowledge of horse production, use, and management. The 4-H program is administered in Pennsylvania by Penn State Extension, with local programs available in all 67 counties. For more information on 4-H horse programs in Pennsylvania, contact your county Penn State Cooperative Extension office or visit the Pennsylvania 4-H Horse Program website.
