4-H’ers participate in state 4-H horse show

By: Jakyn N. Tyson

After competing against 4-H’ers from all parts of Georgia, three Emanuel 4-H’ers returned from the State 4-H Horse Show, held in Perry at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter June 6-11, with honors. There were seventy-six classes in five divisions including stock seat, saddle seat, hunt seat, ranch horse, and contest.

The statewide show does not require previous qualifications and welcomes 4-Hers who have completed 4th-12th grades. The winners were selected on the basis of points each 4-H’er earned riding in their 3 best classes and on a written quiz on horsemanship and 4-H knowledge.

Malaina Nasworthy, a rising senior at ECI and daughter of Jeremy and Ashley Nasworthy, rode in four different events in the Hunt Seat and Gaited and Saddle Seat Divisions earning ribbons in each.

Georgia 4-Hers are also invited to compete in the Horse Educational Contests that coincide with the traditional show. Unlike the traditional shows’ events, these students do not have to own a horse or even ride. These contests include public speaking, method demonstration, drawing, painting, essay and photography events and are designed to increase opportunities for all 4-Hers to benefit from equine programming.

Julianne Way, a rising 5th grader at Swainsboro Elementary, placed third in the Horse Essay Contest. She is the daughter of Dustin and Delane Way. Gracie Scruggs, a rising 7th grade student at DEA and daughter of Joey and Megan Scruggs, placed 2nd in Black and White Photo.

4-H’ers in the Georgia 4-H Horse Program learn life skills including self-motivation, self-esteem, self-responsibility, self-discipline, managing feelings, healthy lifestyle choices, stress management, personal safety, learning to learn, problem solving, goal setting, and record keeping. In addition, they develop character traits of responsibility, fairness, and respect.

For more information about 4-H in Emanuel County, contact the County Extension Office at 478-237-1226 or stop by the office located at 129 North Anderson Drive in Swainsboro.