SALINA – Several youth from Sanpete County recently competed at their state competition at the Blackhawk Arena in Salina.
Throughout the summer these young cowboys and cowgirls have been practicing and competing at 4-H events in order to qualify for the state show. Those who compete qualify in all events, but they take the three best shows (highest points) to qualify. The events are written test, showmanship, western horsemanship, bareback equition, barrels, poles and scurry.
“They have to work really hard to have knowledge about horses, and be well rounded to show in judged events along with speed events,” said volunteer Randee Jaques.
Individual competitor results in the Junior Division with a total of 87 participants were Tayzlee Beesley, first in barrels, eighth in speed events and fourteenth overall. Bree Richardson placed fourth in poles and Kayla Holyoak placed third in portfolio and seventh on the written test.
The Intermediate Division had a total of 98 participants with Bailee Jaques leading the group with her first place overall in a brand new “in-hand division” set up to show young horses under 3 years old. She also placed in the top 20 in the judged events. Katie Aagard placed first in barrels and Kenley Kelso rounded out the group placing second in horsemanship and third in overall judged.
With 78 participants in the Senior Division, Jade Shepherd placed second in barrels and Sarah Everitt placed fourth in portfolio.
