NYS 4-H Horse Program Achieves Remarkable Success at the Eastern National 4-H Horse Roundup
Ithaca, NY– The New York State 4-H Horse Program is thrilled to announce its outstanding performance at the 2024 Eastern National 4-H Horse Roundup, held on November 4th. Sixteen dedicated youth from across the state proudly represented New York in Horse Bowl, Hippology, Judging, and Communications. This year’s competition featured participants from over 20 states, highlighting the exceptional talent and dedication of all involved.
Horse Bowl Highlights:
Coached by Ann Janson and Heather Whitten, the Horse Bowl team delivered a stellar performance, earning 2nd place overall. Individual honors included Zeke Visser in 3rd, Lauren Canario in 6th, Sam Parsons in 8th, and Charlotte Parsons in 9th place nationally.
Judging Team Achievements:
Under the guidance of coaches Colleen Wersinger and Jenny Groen, the Judging team excelled in multiple categories. The team secured 7th place in Halter, 9th place in Team Reasons, and 9th place overall. Individually, Kelly Sanson achieved 10th in performance.
Horse Communications Triumphs:
Coached by Sarah Wilhelm and Trish Bagley the Communications team shone brightly. Charlotte Couchman earned 1st place in Public Speaking, Sydney Kolodziej took 1st place in Individual Presentation, and Tess and Fenton Bergjford achieved 3rd place in Team Presentation. New York claimed 1st place as the top Team Communications group.
Hippology Excellence:
Led by Donna Walker and Kathy Bliss, the Hippology team displayed exceptional skill. In the Written Phase, Jacob Leitzan placed 2nd, Rhiannon Swimelar 6th, and Michellynn Schroeder 8th, with the NY team earning 2nd place overall. The Stations Phase saw Jacob Leitzan in 5th and Rhiannon Swimelar in 9th, contributing to a 3rd place finish for the team. The group also earned 3rd place in Team Problems. Overall individual standings included Jacob Leitzan in 2nd and Rhiannon Swimelar in 6th, leading to an impressive 2nd place finish overall for the NY team.
Beyond Competition:
New York State 4-H members also had the opportunity to explore the rich equine culture of Kentucky through tours of Churchill Downs, Spycoast Farm, and the Kentucky Horse Park, making the experience both competitive and educational.
"We are incredibly proud of our youth for their hard work, commitment, and accomplishments at the Roundup," said Brieanna Hughes, NYS 4-H Equine Youth Specialist. "This success would not be possible without the dedication of our exceptional coaches, who have made NYS 4-H the State to beat!!"
The New York State 4-H Horse Program remains committed to fostering the next generation of equestrian leaders and looks forward to future successes at regional and national competitions.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Brieanna Hughes
NYS 4-H Equine Youth Specialist, Extension Associate Cornell University
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