CLINTON — The Illinois 4-H Horse Speaking and Hippology Contest was held April 11-12 on the University of Illinois Campus. Three DeWitt County 4-H members participated in both contests and placed among the top ten in several divisions.
Stephanie Niesen delivered an impressive four performances in the 4-H Horse Speaking Contest, earning a top-five ranking. Niesen secured first place in the Senior Individual Formal Speech with her presentation, “The Six Nutrients,” earning the honor of representing Illinois at the National contest in Louisville, Ky., this November. See HORSE / A13
Additionally, Niesen placed third in Interpretative Reading and fifth in both Senior Original Individual Presentation and Extemporaneous Division.
Lexi Merriman also excelled, finishing in the top ten in both of her divisions for the 4-H Horse Speaking Contest. Merriman placed fourth in Senior Individual Formal Speech with her presentation, “The Public’s Perception of the Equine Industry,” and sixth in Senior Original Individual Presentation.
The 4-H Horse Speaking contest features five divisions and fosters self-confidence and public speaking skills among 4-H members. All presentations are required to be original, factual, and related to the horse industry. While live animals are not permitted, model animals may be used.
In addition to their success at the 4-H Horse Speaking Contest, DeWitt County 4-H members also performed well at the State 4-H Hippology Contest. Lexi Merriman finished sixth in the Intermediate Division, Lillian Elsea finished seventh, and Briley Thomas twelfth.
The Illinois 4-H Hippology Contest tests members’ knowledge on horse health, breed characteristics, management, and feeding. Participants also face a timed problem-solving challenge in front of a panel of judges. Horse ownership is not a pre-requisite for these 4-H contests.
