SALISBURY — Rowan Advisory Council for Equestrian (RACE) 4-H clubs will host its first open horse show of the season on Saturday, April 20, at Ellis Park Event Center, 2056 E. Ridge Road. This show is open to all equestrians and spectators. Gates will open at 8 a.m., with the show beginning promptly at 9 a.m. Entry fees are $5 per class or $50 for 10 or more classes. Current negative Coggins is required for each horse on the grounds. Admission for spectators is free, and food and drink concessions will be available.
There are 58 classes which include English, Western, Gaited, games and a trail class. Classes are open to cloverbud riders who are ages 8 and under as of Jan. 1, 2013 (noncompetitive division); novice riders who are in their first year of showing (with fewer than five ribbons); junior (ages 9 to 13 as of Jan. 1); and senior/adult (ages 14 and over as of Jan. 1).
Daily high point ribbons will be awarded for English, Western and Gaited divisions in novice, junior and senior/adult categories. The show will begin with English classes at 9 a.m.; Western and Gaited classes will begin at approximately 11:30 a.m.
All riders under 18 years of age will be required to properly wear protective headgear that meets or surpasses ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)/SEI (Safety Equipment Institute) standards while mounted. It is the responsibility of the rider and the parent or guardian of the rider to confirm that the headgear worn by the rider complies with safety standards set forth above; is properly fitted, fastened and worn; and is in such a condition that it would protect the rider in the case of an accident. The 4-H Horse Program and the show committee, officials, judges, extension personnel and volunteers associated with the 4-H Horse Program are not responsible for checking headgear worn by riders for compliance with this rule.
For official rules, a class list and entry form or more information, go online at http://race4-h.blogspot.com or contact the Cooperative Extension office at 704-216-8970.
The 4-H horse program encourages youth to develop leadership abilities, build character and assume citizenship responsibilities. Appreciation is also developed for horseback riding as a healthy form of recreation. Good sportsmanship is taught through a friendly, competitive atmosphere.

Sara Drake is an Extension agent, 4-H Youth Development, in Rowan County. 704-216-8970. http://rowanextension.com