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4-H Horse and Pony Judging Team concludes unique season
The Putnam County Horse Judging Team had to learn to adapt to a new situation in 2020 when in-person meetings were shifted to an online format.
Team members continued to practice individually at home while waiting to see if contests were even be a possibility. Classes were shared online for practice and members recorded their reasons sending them to the coach for review and feedback.
Last May, it was announced by Purdue Extension 4-H Youth Development that the state contest would be held virtually. It was a unique experience for members to log onto the contest at home, watch the classes and answer questions specifically related to what they observed.
Putnam County team members rose to the occasion, and their efforts were rewarded. The senior team consisting of Emma Summers, Sydney Moore and Izabella Summerlot placed third in their division, while the junior team of Aubrey Summers, Isabella Monnett and Ethan Trissel earned a second-place finish. Individually, two junior members achieved personal-best finishes with Aubrey Summers placing fifth and Ethan Trissel placing ninth.
“I am so proud of these kids,” coach Lisa Pitts said of the team. “Not just for how they placed in the contest, but more for the self-motivation they showed and their personal drive to stick with a program and finish the year under such different circumstances.”
The team has recently resumed practices and look forward to returning to a more normal experience where they can continue to meet and compete in person in 2021.
New members are always welcome. However, they must be enrolled in 4-H in Putnam County to participate.
Those interested may contact the Putnam County Extension office for additional information.