Illinois 4-H

Youth demonstrate expert equine knowledge, passion for horses in hippology contest

Urbana, Ill. -- In 4-H, learning about horses means much more than learning to ride. Young people with a passion for horses participated in recent statewide educational contests related to the equine industry. 4-H’s educational programs enhance members’ knowledge of horse health, breed characteristics, management, and feeding. That knowledge and skills were tested during the State 4-H Hippology Contest held April 13 on the University of Illinois campus.

In Hippology, youth field a wide range of questions, ranging from breed identification, anatomy, tack identification, and feed samples to disease management, parasite identification, and quality assessment. They also are given a timed problem-solving challenge they must solve on the spot in front of a panel of judges. Horse ownership is not a pre-requisite in the either the educational programs or contests.   

Top finishers included:

Senior Division: Allison Burrs from Carroll County, first; Talisa Thomas from Whiteside County, second; Hannah Wenzel from Saline County, third; Stephanie Niesen from DeWitt County, fourth; Sydney Woodard from Monroe County, fifth; Ellis Rogers from Knox County, sixth; Emily Conlee from Knox County, seventh; Michaela Persico from Kendall County, eighth; Maya Woodard from Monroe County, ninth; and Annelise Veeder from Kendall County, tenth

Intermediate Division: Moira Curry from Pike County, first; Gracie Walker from Hamilton County, second; Alexis Modaff from Kendall County, third; Addison Yordy from Ogle County, fourth; Emma Steiger from Rock Island County, fifth; Nora Moore from Madison County, sixth; Hanna Koch from Tazewell County, seventh; Shannon Bernard from Jefferson County, eighth; Gabby Carden from Bureau County, ninth; and Caitlan Ritter from McLean County, tenth.

Junior Division: Devin Burrs from Carroll County, first; Mallory Paur from Madison County, second; Audrey Winkler from Jefferson County, third; Annabelle Sutter from McLean County, fourth; Addison Diehl from Ogle County, fifth; Lily Hongsermeier from Ogle County, sixth; Julian Henry from Knox County, seventh; Cecilia Kampmueller from Champaign County, eighth; Dalton Carls from Rock Island County, ninth; and Jocelyn Erickson from Mercer County, tenth.

Illinois youth who will compete in the National 4-H Hippology Contest are supported by the Illinois 4-H Foundation and its donors.  This year’s event also Horse Bowl and Horse Speaking events.

About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. 4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow. The hands-on approach in 4-H gives young people guidance, tools and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research confirms the unparalleled impact of the 4-H experience, demonstrating that young people are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs. 

For Further Information, Contact:

Source:  Deb Hagstrom, University of Illinois Extension Specialist, Horses hagstrom@illinois.edu

Writer:  Carissa Nelson, Media Communications Manager, 4-H State Office, carissa@illinois.edu