Hippology teams represent Michigan 4-H nationally
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EmailWashtenaw County 4-H represented Michigan at two national hippology contests.
The Michigan 4-H horse program hosts a variety of educational contests throughout the year. The hippology contest kicks off each program year with many dedicated youth and often stiff competition.
The 2024 4-H Hippology State Contest was held at Michigan State University on March 16. Hippology, as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, means “the study of the horse.” The hippology contest is entirely that and during the contest, youth completed a variety of skills stations and demonstrations centered around the study of the horse.
In the senior division, teams compete for the coveted “Top Three” team placings. The top three teams in the senior division earn the opportunity to compete at a national contest representing Michigan 4-H. Two teams from Washtenaw County placed in the top three teams this year. Placing first and third, they qualified to compete at the next level: a national contest. The three national contests they could choose from were the Eastern National 4-H Roundup, the All-American Quarter Horse Congress and the Arabian and Half-Arabian Horse Nationals.
The first-place team from Washtenaw County 4-H headed to the Eastern National 4-H Roundup in Louisville, Kentucky. There, the team was faced with some challenges and did not rank in the top placings as a team. Despite this, they persevered and learned a lot. In addition, team member Julia L. was fourth overall high individual in the horse judging contest; a huge accomplishment.
The third-place team from Washtenaw County headed to Columbus, Ohio, to represent Michigan 4-H at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress. Coach Angela Oakman noted that this team pushed through challenges and worked hard to accomplish a strong finish in the contest.
Interested in forming a 4-H hippology team or joining one? Reach out to your county Michigan State University Extension office to find out how to get involved!
