Chambana Sun

Young equine enthusiasts from across Illinois gathered in Galva for the Illinois 4-H State Horse Judging Contest on February 17. The event took place at Black Hawk College East Campus, where participants demonstrated their skills in evaluating horses.

The competition required participants to assess six classes of horses, including at least two halter classes. These contests are designed to help young people develop their observation and decision-making skills while learning about horse evaluation criteria.

The 4-H program offers educational opportunities related to the equine industry, allowing young individuals to learn about horse health, breed characteristics, management, and nutrition without needing to own a horse.

Five youth from Bureau County took part in the contest with notable results:

- In the Non-Reasons Division: Payton Frueh secured third place and Addy Thomas achieved eighth place.

- In Non-Reasons Teams: Bureau County finished second.

- For Non-Reasons Ranked by Performance Total: Payton Frueh placed fourth and Gabby Carden came eighth.

- In Non-Reasons Ranked by Halter Total: Albie Hartman was fourth.

- For Non-Reasons Ranked by Questions Class: Payton Frueh took first place.

Overall individual scores saw Payton Frueh finishing third overall, Addy Thomas eighth, Albie Hartman sixteenth, Gabby Carden eighteenth, and Gretchen Carden thirty-fifth.

For further information, contact the University of Illinois Extension – Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam Unit Office at 815-875-2878. Extension offices are located in Princeton, Ottawa, Henry and Oglesby on the IVCC campus.

This information was provided by Deb Hagstrom, Extension Equine Specialist (hagstrom@illinois.edu), and Carissa Nelson, Media Communications Manager at the 4-H State Office (carissa7@illinois.edu).