Horsemanship Skills Program Planned progression of handling and riding skills 4-H member learns skills, is tested, and completes one level before advancing to next level. Not competitive! Every youth can participate and succeed. Initial levels (1&2) are required to compete in the State 4-H Horse Show.

Objectives of the Program Develop horsemanship & safety skills Recognize individual member accomplishment & achievement of goals Educate youth, volunteers, parents and professionals Promote cooperation and teamwork Develop life skills in youth

Skill Level 1 ALL members MUST start at Level 1! This includes minis and driving horses Emphasizes basic, correct and safe ground handling for all disciplines

Skill Level 2 Builds a solid foundation of handling and horsemanship skills Separate evaluations for Driving & Riding Horses Examples: Ground Driving Driving from a cart Control of horse at all three gaits Simple lead changes

Skill Levels 3 & 4 More advanced control and confidence Examples: Lunge horse More advanced turns on forehand, hindquarter More advanced transitions and gaits More lateral movements; leg yield at trot/jog Counter canter

Requirements for 2014 State Show Everyone must have passed levels 1 & 2 unless they have shown that horse previously at the State Show! Only exception is non- driving Miniature horses Riding Horses  Riding 2 Driving Horses & Minis (if applicable)  Driving 2 All requirements must be completed prior to entering the State Show!

Youth Evaluations Where to find: Horse Program calendar Horsemanship Skills Calendar Several evaluations held in each district each year List of evaluated youth is maintained online and updated as received by the State Office Evaluation information is sent by event managers Evaluation copies are not sent to the State Office!

Trained Evaluators Not Instructors! Assess safety of youth/horses. 2+ Present at all evaluations Cannot evaluate your own 4-H’ers! Trainings held each year, Contact District Horse Council if interested

Website References Everything you need is here: Horsemanship Skills Program Horsemanship Skills Program You can always /call if you need help!

Questions?????