| Arabian Horses in 4HUsing Arabian horses in 4-H club events allows young horse lovers to show and compete in a variety of activities. Arabian horses are well known for their intelligence and ability to bond with their owners. This makes Arabians well suited for children and young adults. Young ChampionsEvery state has 4-H clubs, which teach children important life skills including cooperative effort, setting goals, and developing strategies for success. The clubs do this through many different activities that appeal to a wide range of interests. As a result, there are many 4-H clubs that have horse themed programs. The youth events are not limited to Arabian breeds, so it is a great opportunity for children and teenagers to showcase the Arabian horses in 4-H club programs.  Arabian horses in 4-H horse programs stand out as exceptional horses among the other breeds. Students who have spent many hours training and grooming their horses get a chance to show the exceptional intelligence of the Arabian horses. They also get to practice competing in various categories including halter, dressage and western categories among others. The 4-H horse program also trains young adults in the art of horse judging, truly making them the next leaders in the field. [top]
In TrainingThough students are in training when involved in 4-H club events, the horse competitions are taken seriously. This is evidenced by the fact there is a large horse program in every state. Using Arabian horses in 4-H horse programs is common and horses include full-blooded Arabians, half-Arabians, quarter horses, and thoroughbreds. The Arabians compete equally with other breeds also, but it is the Arabians that frequently shine in the arena. Arabian horses in 4-H programs participate in all categories of competition.
Programs offered by the clubs include lessons in arena rules, grooming, training, trailering, and even raising an Arabian foal. There are local and state competitions and a chance to compete in the Youth Nationals if successful at state levels. Young Arabian horse owners learn how to maintain record books and refine horse-riding skills. Club members can interact with experienced adult Arabian horse owners and learn strategies from people who have been successful. Arabian horses in 4-H club events are sometimes the highlights of horse programs. But even children who do not own an Arabian, but love horses, can participate in one of a number of ways. The 4-H program provides opportunities that non-horse owners would not get otherwise. Sharing an interest with others is a great way to make friends, develop social skills, and have some fun.  The Arabian Horse Association works closely with the 4-H clubs offering national events for youth participation. The Association has an online youth program called “Leg Up” that is accessible by anyone and is a great source of information for young owners of Arabian horses. In 4-H club programs, often the Arabian Horse Association is a major contributor of guidelines, information, and even awards. When looking for a great way for your young Arabian horse owner to participate in locale, state or even national contests, the 4-H program should be your first choice. There are handbooks, leader guides, hands-on instruction, competitions, and plenty of references to answer any question about Arabian horses in 4-H. You can find the nearest 4-H club online by accessing the 4-H or Arabian Horse Association websites. [top]
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