Michigan 4-H youth shine at World Show Competition!
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EmailTwo Michigan 4-H members exhibit skills learned in their 4-H horse and pony project career at the 2025 World Clydesdale Show!
Attending a horse show in Michigan is easy, given that you can find one almost anywhere on most weekends from June to September. Taking the leap and attending the largest show for your horse breed is quite a challenge, however. Two Michigan 4-H’ers did just that when they traveled from Oceana County to Springfield, Illinois, to attend the World Clydesdale Show at the beginning of October.
Lillian and Alayna both had the opportunity to showcase the skills they have gained during their time in Michigan 4-H. Both youth have been in 4-H for over ten years, actively participating in the Oceana County 4-H program, learning all they can about the horse and pony project. While Lillian has been showing draft horses since the young age of seven, this was a new experience for Alayna.
While riding a draft horse is not much different from a light horse, there are some things done differently when showing them. Both Lillian and Alayna have begun mastering the art of transferable skills across species areas, showing horses, goats and rabbits, to name a few. Along with animal and livestock projects, they are also both involved with the Oceana County Hippology team and other educational projects in their county.
Rusty, the five-year-old Clydesdale gelding owned by Lillian, was the best partner in action the two could have asked for. At the young age of five, most horses are still learning the scope of their job and often show nervousness when asked to do something new. Not Rusty, “he took everything in stride and acted like he has done it his whole life,” said Lillian’s mother, Jennifer.
An outstanding show was had by all, especially for these two Michigan 4-H members. They showed the true versatility of a draft horse and entered in different classes, from showmanship to riding classes: all things they can do in 4-H! Lillian had a phenomenal show, placing in every class with Rusty and even taking home a few Top Five awards and the Champion Clydesdale Under English Saddle Award! Alayna followed suit with a phenomenal show, taking home third in a steep senior Under Western Saddle class.
Youth in the Michigan 4-H horse program have had a busy year, filled with many experiences and triumphs. Interested in what the Michigan 4-H youth horse and pony program can do for you? Be sure to check out the Michigan 4-H Horse and Pony Facebook page or with your local Michigan State University Extension office to see how you can get involved in 4-H!
