Three southeastern Vermont 4-H'ers recently returned from last month's Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass., where they competed in various horse events.
Karli Knapp, Townshend; Holly Weglarz, Hartland; and Kassidy Wyman, Cambridgeport were among the 16 4-H equestrians chosen from across the state to represent University of Vermont (UVM) Extension 4-H at “Big E” horse competitions, held Sept. 23-27.
The teens competed against 4-H'ers from the other five New England states in a number of different contests.
Knapp, a Windham County independent 4-H member, participated with her horse, MRQH Hustles. She finished fourth in the command class and 10th in both western trail and western showing and fitting. She also placed in the top 10 in both Western pleasure and Western handiness.
In addition, Knapp was on the second-place team in the Team Challenge. Placement is based on points earned in various events. Only one 4-H'er per state is allowed on each four-person team.
Weglarz, an Upwey Equestrians 4-H Club member, competed with her horse, Kiss My Goodbar. She came in first in Western equitation and Western pleasure and 10th in command.
Wyman, of the River Riders II 4-H Club in Newfane, rode Think Im Hot Dazld Me, competing in several classes. She earned ribbons for top 10 placements in English equitation, English pleasure, English trail and hunter under saddle.
In the English fitting and showmanship competition, the 4-H'ers were split into two groups due to the large number of competitors. Wyman finished second overall in her group.