From roping cattle to jumping fences, 4-H'ers meet the challenge

By CAROLYN ROST | South Central Texas Edition

Readying to Go ... Last-minute adjustments are made for Liberty County Lone Star Riders member Jean McPherson (on horse) by Katie Nance (left) and her father Frank. Jean, and the other Liberty County Lone Star Riders, were among the many competitors at the recent District 9 4-H Horse Show competition in Katy. About 270 4-H members attended the three-day event. -Staff photo by Carolyn Rost

June 30, 2005 - Riders and horses donning colorful costumes competing in fast drills captivated the audience at the 2005 Southeast District 9 4-H Horse Show held at The Great Southwest Equestrian Center in Katy.

The fast drills were one of many competitions held throughout the three-day event which began June 14. The entire show was full of action showcasing 4-H members' talents honed thoughout the year.

According to Kevin Chilek, District 9 Extension program specialist - 4-H, there were 350 horses entered and about 270 4-H members which made it the biggest district horse show in the state.

"We spent three days and we did everything from cattle and roping to the English over fence classes," said Chilek about the competition.

"For a number of equine enthusiasts in Southeast Texas, this was the culminating event for their county horse show projects. We'll also have about 65 to 70 young people going on to the state horse show in Abilene July 23-30," added Chilek.

Fun Times .... The horse show had plenty of fun for 4-H'ers as well. Horsin' around were Ty Arnold (on horse) and Justin Henson with the Madison County 4-H club. -Staff photo by Carolyn Rost

District 9 is made up of 18 counties including Lee, Burleson, Brazos, Madison, Walker, Grimes, Waller, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Fort Bend, Harris, Liberty, Hardin, Brazoria, Galveston, Chambers, Jefferson and Orange.

Billy Gillum, Lee County Extension agent, said the 4-H'ers put in a year's worth of training preparing for the show.

"There were 31 Lee County 4-H'ers who prepared for the District and State 4-H Horse Show for the last 12 months. That's right, these youth began preparing for the 2005 season as soon as they got back from the State Horse Show in July 2004. This is the largest group of youth and parents we have had participate in many years since I came in 1993. Plus, the precision and drill teams placed higher than anytime before, and several members placed in the qualifing events for State Show competition. "

On June15, The Liberty County Rebel Riders drill team took first place honors in both precision riding and fast drill competitions. According to Cain, both drills require excellent horsemanship skills to succeed.

"In comparison to ice skating, the Precision would be your Compulsory routine and the Fast would be the freestyle performance, which gives the Drill Masters freedom to create their teams own unique style. This year the competition was very tough," said Cain.

"These kids, their parents and families must dedicate many hours of their time and plenty of money to be able to participate at this competition. Each 4-H horse project member must attend monthly 4-H meetings to qualify to ride. Since this is a team and not an individual event, your team is only as strong as your weakest rider or horse, this in itself presents many challenges for the team members, the Drill Masters and parents," added Cain.