Barton hosts annual 4-H Horse Clinic for northeast Vermont youth – Newport Dispatch

BARTON — Young equestrians from across northeastern Vermont gathered at the Orleans County Fairgrounds in Barton for the 2024 Northeast Regional 4-H Horsemanship Clinic from June 21-23.

The annual event, sponsored by University of Vermont (UVM) Extension 4-H, offered participants aged 5 to 18 the opportunity to enhance their riding and horsemanship skills in a fun, educational setting.

Over the weekend, 4-H members engaged in various activities including riding lessons, showmanship classes, and general knowledge competitions. The clinic culminated in a horse show on Sunday afternoon, featuring more than 30 individual classes.

Notable achievements included:

• The Wildlife Warriors 4-H Club of St. Johnsbury won the “Golden Bucket of Goodies” for best overall stable management.
• Jenesy Zwart of Danville received the Shelby Noyes Sportsmanship award.
• Quinn Charest of Derby Line, Zayne Franko of Lyndonville, Adriana Leonard of East Hardwick, Penelope Longe of Newport, and Jillyan Normand of North Concord placed first in their respective fitting and showmanship classes.

The event also provided activities for younger participants and those without horses, including craft activities and workshops on horse care.

UVM Extension 4-H Educators Lindy Birch and Holly Ferris organized the clinic, with support from various instructors, 4-H leaders, and parents.