COLUMBIA, Mo. –The 2024 University of Missouri Extension State 4-H Horse Bowl Contest, April 13 in Columbia, drew 27 youths, along with their coaches.

Top junior (ages 8-13) competitors: first, Adalena McAsey, Andrew County team; second, Josie Schulte, Osage County team; third, Dani Jones, Tri-County team; fourth, Guido Giarratana, Tri-County team; fifth, Lola Schmitt, Newton County team, and Lily Rohr, Tri-County team (tie). The top junior team represented Andrew County.

A majority of participants said their knowledge in areas such as equine confirmation, behavior, equipment, diseases, anatomy, terminology and characteristics improved as a result of participating in the event, said Maria Calvert, MU Extension state 4-H agriculture educator. As a result of their involvement in 4-H, 81% of youth responded they are seeking to learn more about agriculture, 71% consider themselves an advocate for the agriculture industry, 72% are seeking a career in agriculture, 80% feel they are educated consumers of agricultural products and 81% said they are comfortable sharing their knowledge of agriculture with others, Calvert said.

A majority of participants also said the program gives them the opportunity to explore something they really care about, they are passionate about the things they do in the program and they want to learn more about this topic, she said.

Programs offered by Missouri 4-H would not be possible without support from our partners. Major support for Missouri 4-H Agriculture programs is provided by the Missouri 4-H Foundation in partnership with Ballenger Propane, Corteva Agriscience, FCS Financial, MFA Foundation, Missouri Association of Meat Processors, Missouri Farm Bureau Federation, Missouri Holstein Association, Missouri Soybean Association, National 4-H Council, Safety National, Eunice Campbell and Dr. Robert E. “Bud” Hertzog.

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

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Junior category (ages 8-13) individual top three winners, from left: third, Dani Jones; second, Josie Schulte; first, Adalena McAsey.

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20240415-hb-2.jpg

Top junior team, from left: Adalena McAsey, Payson McAsey and Erica King.

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/20240415-hb-3.jpg

Tri-County and Osage County teams get ready to begin the 2024 4-H State Horse Bowl.