UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- The 43rd Annual Pennsylvania State 4-H Horse Show will be held October 25-27 at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa. 4-H members from 60 counties are expected to participate, with approximately 900 youths competing in 42 performance and 67 production classes.

The state show is the final competition of the year for 4-H horse club members enrolled in performance and production projects. To be eligible for the show, members must advance through qualifying competitions at county, regional and district levels. Events include halter, showmanship, equitation, pleasure, jumping, driving, reining, western riding and timed events. A therapeutic riding division for riders with disabilities also is included.

Highlights of the weekend will include a recognition ceremony held on Saturday evening and the presentation of the 2002 Pennsylvania 4-H Horse Program Outstanding Member Award. A saddle will be given to the winner of this award. Finalists will be presented halters and leads donated by Wengers Saddlery of York Springs, Pa.

The outstanding member awards recognize outstanding 4-H members who are active in the 4-H horse program on a local, regional, state and national level. Emphasis is placed on the member�s participation in the 4-H program, leadership and impact on their club, county and community. The Equine Educational Exhibit Awards and Good Housekeeping Awards also will be presented on Saturday evening. The educational exhibit and good housekeeping awards are sponsored by Hoys Awards and Trophies of Export, Pa.

The fourth annual State 4-H Model Horse Show will be held on Saturday, Oct. 26, beginning at 10 a.m. in the Small Arena. The Model Horse Show provides an opportunity for interested 4-H members to learn and perfect the hobby of collecting and showing model horses.

Youths learn principles of collecting, history, breeds and uses of horses, tack and equipment. The model horse show is ideal for "horseless" and urban members who may not be able to own or show live horses.

The State 4-H Horse Show offers many opportunities for both participants and spectators including educational and commercial exhibits. A dance for exhibitors and 4-H members will be held in the Small Arena on Friday from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. The show begins daily at 8 a.m. Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Approximately 7,500 youth are enrolled in 4-H horse projects in Pennsylvania. The 4-H Horse Program develops life skills in youth and knowledge of horse production, use and management. Competitions promote development of riding and showmanship skills, while encouraging responsibility, self-confidence, sportsmanship and responsible care of project animals.

For more information on the show or 4-H horse programs in Pennsylvania, contact your county Penn State Cooperative Extension office, or visit the Pennsylvania 4-H Horse Program Web site at http://www.das.psu.edu (click on horses, then 4-H horse program).

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EDITORS: Contact Pat Comerford, Penn State Cooperative Extension horse specialist, at 814-863-3657 or pcomerford@psu.edu.

Contact: Jeff Mulhollem jjm29@psu.edu 814-863-2719 814-863-9877 fax #270