The Sampson County 4-H Horse Bowl team competed at both the Southeast District 4-H Horsebowl Contest and the State 4-H Horse Bowl Contest. The Horsebowl is a quiz-style contest that tests participants' knowledge of equine-related topics, including anatomy, feeding, grooming, and stable management. Teams compete using a buzzer system, answering questions with speed and accuracy.
One of four teams from the Southeast earning qualifications for the state competition, the team included Reagan Blackmon, Taylor Farriester, Haley Matthis, Arianna Ruggles, and Addison Ruggles. Volunteer leaders Megan Lamey and Julie Gore coached the team.
The NC State 4-H Horsebowl Contest, held on March 8, 2025, at NC State University, welcomed 142 youth competitors across 27 teams in Junior, Senior, and Mixed divisions, along with 17 Cloverbud participants. In the Junior Division, Onslow County’s team secured victory after nine rounds of intense competition. Nash County dominated the Mixed Division, going undefeated, and Union County claimed the Senior Division title with an undefeated record.
The NC State 4-H Horsebowl Contest remains a vital platform for youth to showcase their passion for equine science and their commitment to learning, fostering the next generation of horse industry leaders. The contest was sponsored by The Dale Earnhardt Foundation, which continues to support youth equine education in North Carolina.NC State 4-H Horse Program Opportunities
Beyond Horsebowl, the NC State 4-H Horse Program offers a variety of competitions and educational events to enhance equine knowledge and skills. The Horse Judging Contest challenges participants to evaluate and rank horses based on their conformation and performance, helping them develop critical decision-making skills. The Hippology Contest further expands knowledge by testing participants on equine science, including anatomy, health care, nutrition, and industry trends.For those interested in public speaking, the 4-H Horse Program hosts public speaking and presentation contests, where youth deliver speeches and demonstrations on horse-related topics. These events help participants build confidence and communication skills essential for future careers in the equine industry and beyond.
Another highlight of the program is the NC State 4-H Horse Show, where youth exhibit their riding skills in various disciplines, including Western, Hunt Seat, Saddleseat, and Speed Events. The show allows participants to showcase their horsemanship abilities while reinforcing sportsmanship and responsibility in a competitive environment.
Additionally, the program offers Horsemanship Camps, Clinics, and Retreats designed to improve riding and handling skills while fostering camaraderie among participants. These events provide hands-on learning experiences under the guidance of skilled instructors and experienced equestrians.Encouraging Future Participation
The NC State 4-H Horse Program offers numerous avenues for youth to deepen their knowledge, build lifelong skills, and engage in positive experiences within the equine industry. These events emphasize leadership, teamwork, and personal growth, making 4-H an invaluable resource for young horse enthusiasts. For more information about the program, visit https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/equinehusbandry-nc-4-h-horse-program/We are so proud of our Sampson County 4-Hers and their accomplishments in the 4-H Horse Program, especially in Horse Bowl. For more information about the 4-H Horse Program in Sampson County and upcoming events in the county, district, or state, contact the Sampson County Extension Center at 910-592-7161 or visit us on the web at sampson.ces.ncsu.edu.
