4-H Member Finishes In Top Three At State Horse Judging Contest

     Several area 4-H members competed in the 2026 Illinois State 4-H Horse Contest on Feb. 1 at Black Hawk College in Galva. The statewide event brought together youth from 29 Illinois counties for a day of skill development and fun.
     Lexi Merriman, DeWitt County 4-H member, earned an impressive third place in the Reasons Division. Her top-three finish also qualifies her to participate in the invitational contest later this year, where final selections will be made for the 4-H State Horse Judging Team.
     Lillian Elsea, Annabell Hamblen, and Amyla Horn also represented DeWitt County 4-H, participating in the Non Reasons Division and gaining valuable experience.
     During the contest, youth judge six classes of horses, including at least two halter classes. Participants in the Non Reasons Division are expected to complete a questions class, while participants in the Reasons Division are scored on their oral reasoning skills and the ability to justify their placings. Additionally, participants in the Reasons Division must be at least 14 years old.
     The Illinois State 4-H Horse Judging Contest provides youth with an opportunity to demonstrate their equine knowledge in a competitive environment that emphasizes fairness and sportsmanship. Horse judging also helps 4-H members strengthen their decision-making, objective reasoning, and public speaking skills.
     The contest was hosted by the Black Hawk College Equine Program.