Chambana Sun

Young people with a passion for horses participated in statewide educational contests organized by the University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H program. The event, held on April 22 at the University of Illinois campus, tested participants' knowledge in horse health, breed characteristics, management, and feeding through a State Horse Bowl Contest.

The Horse Bowl is structured similarly to a scholastic bowl but focuses on equine knowledge. Participants compete individually and in teams, and owning a horse is not required for participation in these educational programs or contests.

In the Junior Division, top finishers included Emma Steiger from Rock Island County who took first place, followed by Gracie Walker from Monroe County in second place. Jasmine Frerkes from Mercer County placed third. Other notable finishers were Carolina Cox from Monroe County and Madelyn Oltman from Henry County.

For the Senior Division, Eliza Engelhardt from Marion County claimed first place. Hannah Wenzel from Saline County came second, while Maya Woodard from Monroe County finished third. Ellis Rogers from Knox County secured fourth place.

The Junior Division Horse Bowl Teams saw the Rock Island-Henry team take first place. The Mercer County team was second, and the Monroe County team finished third. In the Senior Division Horse Bowl Teams category, the Saline-Monroe-White team secured first place followed by the Marion team in second and the Knox team in third.

This year’s event also featured Hippology and Horse Speaking state contests.

Illinois 4-H is known as a flagship youth development program under the University of Illinois Extension. It aims to develop true leaders who are prepared for future careers by providing hands-on guidance and encouragement to its members.

For further information about this event or program details, contact Deb Hagstrom at hagstrom@illinois.edu or Carissa Nelson at carissa@illinois.edu.