Missouri 4-H Hosts Annual State Horse Judging Contest

Friday, March 13, 2026

The Missouri 4-H State Horse Judging Contest was held Feb. 28 at William Woods University in Fulton, bringing together 70 youth participants from across the state. Competitors tested their equine knowledge by evaluating eight classes-four halter and four performance-and presenting one or two sets of oral reasons to justify their decisions.

“These contests challenge youths to sharpen their observation, decision-making and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of equine evaluation,” said Kelsey Fuller, University of Missouri Extension state 4-H agriculture educator.

Participants competed in two age divisions: junior (ages 8-13) and senior (ages 14-18), with special recognition for top performers ages 8-10.

Top competitors, ages 8-10: Ivy Coolman, Andrew County, first; Kaley Miller, Lafayette County, second; Easton Hand, Newton County, third; Victoria Randle, Camden County, fourth; and Madison Weber, Camden County, fifth.

Top junior individuals (ages 8-13): Paisley O’Dell, Camden County, first; Maya Watson, Boone County, second; Baylee Crum, Callaway County, third. Top junior teams: Camden County, Newton County, and Callaway County.

Top senior individuals (ages 14-18): Natalie Lovenduski, Linn County, first; Adelena McAsey, Andrew County, second; Eliza Randle, Camden County, third. Top senior teams: Andrew County, Callaway County, and Cape Girardeau County.

Awards were also given in halter, performance, and reasons categories. Notable halter winners included Lyla Porter and Adalena McAsey (seniors), and Paisley O’Dell and Ivy Coolman (juniors). Performance and reasons champions highlighted the skill and dedication of Missouri youth across the divisions.

New for 2026, Missouri 4-H is expanding national opportunities. This fall, youths from Andrew County and the newly formed All-Star team will represent Missouri at the Eastern National Roundup and the All American Quarter Horse Congress, showcasing their talents on a national stage.

Photo Credit: 4-h