Horsebowl/hippology
The objectives of hippology are to provide an opportunity for youth to learn and demonstrate their breadth of knowledge and understanding of horse management and to learn life-skills such as acquiring knowledge, communicating, solving problems, relating to others and applying leadership skills. As a team we learn and study all aspects of horses and horse management and we then use our knowledge to complete one of two events; Hipploogy, where a written test, slides, stations and two judging classes are completed on an individual basis; and Horse Bowl - where a team of 4-5 members participate in a quiz bowl where they buzz in to answer questions asked by a moderator. We compete at Purdue University where we spend one night in a hotel, enjoy dinner together and have a pool party. We welcome members of all ages and with any level of horse knowledge. Come have fun with us and learn a few things about our favorite animals, horses!!!
Mid-States
The Midstate’s Team Tournament is held on Saturday the weekend of the 4th of July at the Noble County Fairgrounds (Kendallville). There is a weekend long contesting show in addition to the team tournament. Noble County has great camping facilities and stalls for horses. There are usually 10 plus counties represented each year by 4-H teams. There is both a Pony Team and a Horse Team. The team competes as individuals and then collectively as a team in six events: Barrels, Poles, Flag, Equitation, Horsemanship and Showmanship. Prior to the tournament all team members participate in a Grand Entry Parade. Noble County Saddle Club does a great job with awards for the top teams in each group! Our goal each year is to take the strongest teams to represent Elkhart County. We are looking for consistency, good attitude, and sportsmanship in all team members. Please see the attached letter which explains how the initial team is chosen and how you can challenge for a spot on the team. All club members are encouraged to participate! If you are not on the team that’s ok! We would love to have you join us to cheer on the team members. Please reach out to the team coaches for more information!
Judging
The Elkhart County Horse Judging Team is a program that aims to teach 4-Hers how to place a class and defend their opinions via a short oral presentation. Participants learn breed standards and class descriptions for classes such as AQHA Halter to Arabian Native Costume and everything in between. This allows these
4-Hers to be very well rounded and knowledgeable about all disciplines and breeds, even if they don't ride that discipline themselves. Accomplishments from prior year teams include Area, State, and National championships in both individual and team divisions. The team meets typically on Tuesday nights beginning in January with the state contest taking place in May in Hendricks County and Nationals at either Quarter Horse Congress in Columbus or Arabian Nationals in Tulsa in the fall. Participants need not have their own horse to participate in this educational event. If interested, this team is lead by Jessica Grover and she can be reached at 574-903-7234
Drill Team
Drill team consists of multiple riders performing various synchronized patterns and maneuvers while on horseback, usually put to music. The team practices weekly at the main arena in the fairgrounds to get the horses and riders working together as a team and learning the designated routine for that year. Drill team requires precision in the movements of horse and rider and is a great way to improve your control and mindfulness while riding for all levels of riders. The Drill Team then performs their yearly routine twice during the 4-H Fair.