NC State 4-H Horse Program

As the temperatures rise and the sun stays out longer, make sure your equine friends are adequately protected from harmful UV rays. ☀️

Hot summer weather puts horses at risk not only for dehydration and heat stress but also the skin damage and discomfort that accompany a sunburn— just like humans.

A lot of equestrians love some chrome on a horse, but it's important to remember that those beautiful white markings and the non-pigmented pink skin underneath are more likely to suffer from sunburn, especially in areas where the skin is more sensitive — like around the eyes and the nostrils.

In addition to the pain and discomfort, horses that are prone to recurrent sunburn may also face other long-term consequences, like the increased likelihood of developing squamous cell carcinoma (a common cancer).

If your horse is susceptible to sunburn, contact your veterinarian for more information about sun damage and recommendations to keep your equine protected this summer.

🐴✨ Big talent comes in small packages! ✨🐴
We are excited to announce that Miniature Horse Classes are taking place at this year's NC State 4-H Horse Show in Raleigh!

Please Note: These classes are invitational, so a prior qualifying show is not required. Exhibitors must submit a completed eligibility card with their entry form (due postmarked by June 1).

Forms can be accessed directly on the State 4-H Horse Show webpage, or by scanning the QR code on the flyer. We look forward to seeing you there!
https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/nc-4-h-shows-camps/state-horse-show/

NEW FOR 2026: Drill Team Classes are Coming to the State Show!
Looking for a way to showcase your teamwork, creativity, and horsemanship? Grab your barn friends and your favorite music, because Drill Team is officially making its debut on Wednesday, July 8th!

Here is everything you need to know to get in on the fun:
**The Details
No Qualification Needed: This is an invitational class—you do not need to qualify at a prior show to enter! Each team member needs to have a completed eligibility card and be a junior or senior 4-H member.
**Divisions:
Green: Walk/Trot
Open: Walk/Trot/Canter
**Group Sizes: Small Group (2–4 riders) or Large Group (5–12 riders).
**Tack & Attire: Any style is welcome (English, Western, etc.), as long as your whole team matches. Flags are allowed but not required!
**Awards
1-10th for each class
The highest-scoring team will be invited to perform their routine live during the Opening Ceremony on Friday evening!

**Ready to Ride?
Don't worry if you've never done a drill before! We have everything you need to get started, including the official rulebook, registration forms, deadlines, and a helpful guidebook.
https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/news/n/

🍀 Once a 4-H’er, Always a 4-H’er! 🐴

Calling all NC 4-H Alumni! It’s time to dust off your boots and get back in the arena for the 2026 Alumni Showmanship Class!

This isn't just about showing off your skills; it’s a fundraiser with a huge mission. All proceeds go directly to our five District 4-H Horse Councils to provide scholarships and financial aid. Your participation helps deserving youth attend camps, clinics, and shows that shape their future.

We want our alumni back in the ring! If you need a horse to use, our current members are excited to help you out. Let’s make this the biggest year yet!

Check the graphic for details, and make sure to submit your entries in the State Show office by July 10th at 3 PM! Scan the QR code or visit the State Show page on the website.
https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/nc-4-h-shows-camps/state-horse-show/

🐴✨This weekend is the second round of Qualifying Horse Shows for the 2026 NC State 4-H Horse Show- good luck to those showing at the North Central show in Colfax!

Gearing up to come show in Raleigh? We want to make sure your paperwork arrives on time. Please note that all entries must be postmarked by the dates listed on the graphic to be eligible. If you are showing exclusively in one of the non-qualifying divisions (Cloverbud, Adaptive, Dressage, Miniature, Drill Team), the entry forms for those are on the State Show page on the website.

https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/nc-4-h-shows-camps/state-horse-show/
Photo Credit: Kirsten Hannah Photography

🐴 Ready to Take the Reins? | Driving Clinic 2026

Attention NC 4-H Horse Program members and equine enthusiasts! Ever wanted to learn the art of harnessing and driving, but didn't know where to start? Now is your chance. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this is the perfect opportunity to learn from the folks with the NC Work Horse & Mule Association!

All needed equipment/horses are provided!!!
25 spots currently available
$5 to save your spot, which will cover snacks and drinks

For more information, please refer to the posted flyer!

"Continue the Legend"
Happy Birthday Dale.................................

NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt would've turned 75 today.

Calling all young writers and horse lovers! ✍️🐴
It’s time to pick up your pens for the 2026 Creative Writing Contest! Whether you have a story to tell, a poem to share, or an essay to write, we want to hear your voice.
• Categories: Poetry, Short Story, and Essay
• Divisions: Junior & Senior
• Deadline: June 15
• Entry Fee: $3
Awards will be ready for pick-up on July 10 at the State 4-H Horse Show. Scan the QR code in the graphic or visit the link below to enter!
https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/nc-4-h-contests-resources/artistic-expression-events/equinehusbandry-horse-creative-writing-contests/

The 2026 NC State 4-H Horse Judging Contest brought 116 of North Carolina’s brightest young equine enthusiasts to Martin Community College Equestrian Center on April 11, 2026. Representing 24 counties, these 4-H’ers spent the day evaluating eight high-quality classes of horses provided by Martin Community College and local hunt seat riders.

Events like this are a true team effort. A huge thank you to the MCC Equine Program (Tami Thurston and Mary Dalcourt), our incredible volunteers, and The Dale Earnhardt Foundation, for investing in the future of the NC horse industry!

For more details and results, please see this page on the website:
https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/news/2026-horse-judging-champions-crowned/

It’s time to trade your reins for a paintbrush, camera, or computer! Registration for the 2026 NC 4-H Horse Program Artistic Expression Contests is officially OPEN.

Whether you're a photographer, an artist, or a digital creator, we want to see how the horse world inspires you. Show off your talents and compete for a spot in the winner’s circle!

📅 Mark Your Calendars:
June 10: Online Registration Closes 💻

June 15: Entry Fees Due 💸

July 9 (Thursday): Project Submission at the State 4-H Horse Show 📥

July 10 (Friday): Winners on display & Project Pick-up 🏆
https://equinehusbandry.ces.ncsu.edu/nc-4-h-contests-resources/artistic-expression-events/