Jockey Kris Fox, from Presque Isle Downs Race Track in Erie, has won over four hundred races. He explained the rigors and rewards of his work and demonstrated how jockeys practice on mechanical horses, which members then practiced “riding.” Race horse trainer Matthew Kintz displayed special weighted saddles and pads and photo albums of winners. He discussed racing strategies and conditioning horses for speed, including always running them two at a time, to give each a competitor to beat.

Equine Chiropractor Bill Barr, from Columbus, Ohio, demonstrated and explained the benefits and uses for chiropractic manipulation and acupuncture on horses.

Debbie and Randy Van Ord showed members how to swing a lariat and rope on the ground.

Shelia Marzinek worked with members and their Miniature Horses, “Minis,” practicing In-Hand Jumping and Driving.

Ben Freeman, from Miracle Mountain Ranch in Spring Creek, preaches a Sermon on the Mount, mounted on his Longhorn Steer, Brisket.

Leaders Kelly Boisvert and Katie Downs taught Showmanship, assisting members in leading and handling their horses. Later, Kelly Boisvert taught Advanced Horsemanship Skills, while Katie Downs taught Beginner Horsemanship Skills. Tammi Holden gave Horseless members the opportunity for hands-on experience in ground skills with Minis and larger, well-behaved horses.

Amanda Ongley taught about the joys and challenges of Recreational Riding. In the evening, members enjoyed games and a Scavenger Hunt organized by Sammi Hulings.

Nokomis Stanton demonstrated desensitizing a horse for clipping and proper clipping techniques.

Tammi Holden and Sammi Hulings held a Contesting Clinic, assisting members and their horses in better techniques for Barrels, Poles, and Bowtie patterns. They were joined by Katie Downs in teaching Advanced Trail Class, then Kelly Boisvert and Katie Downs taught Beginner Trail Class, including In-Hand Trail with Minis.

Cowboy Church was provided by Ben Freeman, from Miracle Mountain Ranch in Spring Creek, who preached an inspiring Sermon on the Mount, mounted on his Longhorn Steer, Brisket! He also demonstrated the special training he’s given his horse, Raven.

Pictured Equine Chiropractor Bill Barr, from Columbus, Ohio, demonstrating his techniques on 27-year-old Vinny

Western Region Equine Extension Associate Adam Guiste held a Ranch Pleasure Clinic, working with members and their horses on performing the required gaits to the best of their abilities. He also instructed them through completing individual Dressage Tests.

The Warren County 4-H Horse Program wishes to thank these sponsors for so generously supporting this year’s Camp Giddy Up Go: Betts Industries in Warren, Corry Little Caesars Pizza, Corry Tractor Supply, Corry Walmart, Firth Maple Products in Spartansburg, Josh Ongley Whitetail Properties Real Estate, North Warren Walmart, Pittsfield Subway, Sugar Grove Dollar General, Till Top Creamery in Corry, and Youngsville Tops Market.

For further information about this and other 4-H Programs, for youth ages 8 to 18, contact Penn State Extension, Warren County, at 814-563-9388.

Pictured is Jockey Kris Fox, from Presque Isle Downs Race Track in Erie, as he demonstrates how jockeys practice on a mechanical horse.