Areena and Shaye Goon, daughters of Taylor and Jessica Goon, Winchester, were recently recognized at The Ohio State University for their participation in Ohio 4-H Horse events and competitions during the 2016 season. Shaye participated in all eight events, which include horse bowl, the communication contest, hippology, horse judging, the State Fair horse skillathon, the State Fair Junior Horse Show, the competitive trail ride, and the groom and clean contest. Areena participated in seven of the events. For her efforts, Shaye received gold level recognition, which included a certificate and an embroidered jacket featuring her name and the year. Areena received silver level recognition.
Participating in seven or eight state-level events is quite a feat and requires a commitment from the entire family. Jessica coaches the Adams County 4-H Equine Education team and helps her own and other youth prepare for events such as horse bowl, hippology, and judging. Numerous trips to Columbus, Union and Logan Counties, and other areas of the state are required throughout the season. In 2016 Areena and Shaye worked hard on their individual illustrated talks for the communication contest, with Areena placing first in this statewide event. Both studied non-stop for contests such as horse bowl and hippology, and they put in long hours conditioning their horses for the competitive trail ride.
The 2017 state-level events kick-off with horse bowl and the communication contest this spring. Preparation is already underway, with the Equine Education team meeting every other Sunday in the Government Center conference room from 2-3:30 p.m. The next session is set for Sunday, February 12 and is open to any interested and enrolled 4-H horse or horseless project member. Contact Jessica Goon or the Extension office for more information about this or other 4-H opportunities.