By Sara Drake

Rowan Cooperative Extension

Rowan Advisory Council for Equestrian (RACE) 4-H clubs will host an open horse show on Saturday, Oct. 17, 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 $6 per class or $55 for unlimited entries (per horse/rider combination). 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 59 classes which include English, Western, Gaited, games and a trail class. There will also be a costume class.  Classes are open to cloverbud riders who are ages 8 and under as of Jan. 1, 2015 (noncompetitive division); novice riders who are in their first or second year of showing (with fewer than five blue ribbons); junior (ages 9 to 13 as of Jan. 1, 2015); senior (ages 14 to 18 as of Jan. 1, 2015); and adult (all riders over the age of 18).

Daily high point ribbons will be awarded for English, Western and Gaited divisions in novice, junior, senior and adult categories. The show will begin with English classes at 9 a.m. and the Western and Gaited classes will begin at approximately noon.

All riders under 18 years of age will be required to properly wear protective headgear that meets or surpasses American Society for Testing and Materials/Safety Equipment Institute standards while mounted. In addition, all riders must wear a helmet while jumping.  

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://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/categories/4-h-youth-development/ or contact the 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.