FULTON, Mo. – The University of Missouri Extension State 4-H Horse Judging Contest on March 1 drew 88 4-H members from across the state to William Woods University in Fulton.

The event provided youths and their coaches the opportunity to tour the university’s facilities and learn more about its equine program from faculty and staff, said Kelsey Fuller, MU Extension state 4-H agriculture educator.

Top 10 competitors, ages 8-10

1. Evelyn Carson, Boone County
2. Estelle Randle, Laclede County
3. Ivy Coolman, Andrew County
4. Carleigh Hall, Callaway County
5. Kara Meier, Cape Girardeau County
6. Easton Hall, Callaway County
7. Joanie Presser, Cape Girardeau County
8. Hadlee Threlkeld, Callaway County
9. Easton Hand, Newton County
10. Kaley Miller, Lafayette County

Top 10 junior (ages 8-13) competitors

1. Clancy Jones, Newton County
2. Clara Randle, Laclede County
3. Porter Kruze, Newton County
4. Payson McAsey, Andrew County
5. Evan Weist, Newton County
6. Charlotte Coolman, Andrew County
7. Lola Schmitt, Newton County
8. Hazel Holcomb, Cape Girardeau County
9. Quincy Morgan, Newton County
10. Hardy Mills, Newton County

Top junior teams

1. Newton County
2. Andrew County
3. Laclede County

Top 10 senior (ages 14-18) competitors

1. Kadence Mills, Newton County
2. Lexi Mullins, Phelps County
3. Eliza Randle, Laclede County
4. Ella Bruening, Lincoln County
5. Lydia Smithee, Callaway County
6. Morgan Benne, Callaway County
7. Isabella Menne, Lincoln County
8. Mylee Geringer, Perry County
9. Jocelynn Newell, Laclede County
10. Norah Randle, Laclede County

Top senior teams

1. Laclede County
2. Newton County
3. Callaway County

The members of the Laclede County senior team, which earned the top spot, will represent Missouri in the national contest this November.

Participants reported significant improvements in skills such as interpreting discipline patterns, identifying equine anatomy and expressing their placements verbally, Fuller said. Notably, 92% of competitors felt they had enhanced their ability to evaluate equine conformation. The contest also had a profound impact on participants, with many expressing a desire to learn more about agriculture, share their knowledge with others and pursue agricultural careers after high school, she added. A majority also indicated that the program provided an invaluable opportunity to explore something they care deeply about, fueling their passion for the subject and deepening their interest in equine studies.

Programs offered by Missouri 4-H would not be possible without support from our partners. Major support for Missouri 4-H Agriculture programs was provided by the Missouri 4-H Foundation in partnership with BTC Bank, FCS Financial, MFA Foundation, Missouri Association of Meat Processors, Missouri Farm Bureau Federation, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, Smithfield Hog Production, and the Hertzog Family.

About Missouri 4-H

Missouri 4-H grows today’s youth and prepares tomorrow’s leaders. With a blend of time-tested traditions and innovative hands-on learning, Missouri youth explore and find their spark in programs ranging from agriculture and conservation to aerospace and career development. Through clubs, programs, camps, in-school and after-school experiences, University of Missouri Extension faculty, staff and thousands of volunteers guide youth in developing essential skills, building confidence and fostering connections. Together, they inspire young people to make a real difference in their communities, their country and the world. To learn more about Missouri 4-H, visit 4h.missouri.edu.

Photos

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20250311-horse.jpg
Youths judge halter class during the 2025 Missouri 4-H State Horse Judging Contest.

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20250311-horse-2.jpg
Top overall senior teams at the 2025 Missouri 4-H State Horse Judging Contest.