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Horses

A horse and rider executing a barrel turn.

Ongoing Programs

The Seeing Eye program utilizes 4-H youth and adults to raise and provide a socialization experience for their puppies through membership and participation in 4-H clubs.

Gerry Leonarski 'Making the Best Better' Memorial Awards

The Gerry Leonarski "Making the Best Better" Memorial Awards are being instituted starting this year specifically for 4-H members enrolled in the NJ 4-H Equine Program.

Mary & Fred Kossatz Awards for Scholarly Achievement in the NJ 4-H Horse Program

This scholarship recognizes a junior and senior 4-H member who have had exemplary accomplishments in multiple 4-H Horse project activities.

Upcoming Events

NJ State 4-H Hippology Contest

April 6, 2024

Hippology combines horse judging, the technical knowledge learned in horse bowl, and the practical application of various horse related skills. 4-H members put their knowledge to use as they complete an examination phase, a station phase that includes identifying horse-related items, a judging phase, and a team problems phase that emphasizes teamwork and planning.

NJ State 4-H Horse Judging Contest

April 7, 2024

In horse judging, 4-H members make a careful study of animals measuring them individually against a commonly accepted ideal. 4-H members learn to look at a group of four horses (a class) and compare the balance and type, as well as the correctness of the structures of the horses. Generally, 4-H members also have an opportunity to give oral reasons for why they rated the classes the way they did. 4-H members who participate in horse judging become keen observers, poised and confident speakers, and learn that doing their best is a positive contribution to the team.

NJ State 4-H Championship Horse Show

August 23–25, 2024

The New Jersey State 4-H Championship Horse Show offers 4-H youth the opportunity to compete at an advanced level and meet other 4-H horse project members from around the state.

Past Events

NJ State 4-H Spring Model Horse Show Clinic

April 8, 2023

Open to all 4-H members interested in model horses. Participants need to bring a notebook and pen/pencil to take notes. You are welcome to bring your models to display and use as examples for breed identification and colors.

NJ State 4-H Equestrian of the Year

August 19, 2023

The Equestrian of the Year contest is an ambassador program that encourages 4-H'ers to become well-rounded individuals with a comprehensive background in the horse field. Emphasis is placed on participation in the educational equine events such as Horse Bowl, Horse Judging and Hippology; Public Speaking skills through county, state and the Equine Presentation contests; Leadership proficiency by participation in State Horse Project Teen Council (HPTC) and county level teen leadership programs; Community Service Projects; and other equine related activities.

NJ State 4-H Model Horse Show

January 20, 2024

The Model Horse project is is a great opportunity for 4-H members who do not own real horses. 4-H members "show" model horses and tack that they have purchased, made, or customized. The contest is open to all 4-H members enrolled in the horse project.

NJ State 4-H Horse Bowl Competition

February 24, 2024

The horse bowl is based on the collegiate bowl contests that used to be on TV. Contestants are asked questions which have been assigned a point value. Contestants use buzzers to be recognized to respond. By studying for the contest, 4-H members gain knowledge about animal science and horsemanship.

NJ State 4-H Equine Arts Show

March 16, 2024

The 4-H Equine Arts Show is a creative and instructional program that invites 4-H members to display their artistic talents and imaginations, while developing life-time skills and abilities. Participants are able to express their appreciation of the horse through various art mediums, while they are expanding their cultural knowledge. Art projects enable 4-H'ers to learn the value of developing visual exhibits in areas of specific interest.

NJ State 4-H Equine Presentation Contest

March 16, 2024

The New Jersey 4-H Equine Presentations Project is a project area that is beneficial to the total 4-H Horse Program. By learning to give presentations and demonstrations, 4-H'ers gain self-confidence and speaking abilities that are valuable in life situations such as school, the work place and the community.