News Release Distributed 06/26/07
More than 600 young people across Louisiana will compete in the 38th annual Louisiana 4-H and FFA State Horse Show July 9-14 in West Monroe.
Coordinated by the LSU AgCenter, the event will be held for the third year in a row at the Ike Hamilton Expo Center. The youngsters who gather for the state horse show already will have competed in district shows, said Dr. Clint Depew, LSU AgCenter animal scientist and show director.
The horse industry contributed about $2.45 billion to the state’s economy in 2006, Depew said. This horse show plays an important role in the educational development of the next generation of horse enthusiasts, he said.
“Even more significant, these activities are helping to develop youth with character and leadership skills crucial to the future of our state. These young leaders are excellent examples of what dedication and hard work can achieve,” Depew said.
Youngsters will compete in a variety of skills. Some show their ability to handle horses. Others demonstrate public speaking talent on a subject pertaining to the equine industry. Events include breakaway roping, team penning, pole bending, western riding, reining and barrel racing.
The awards banquet will be at 6:30 p.m. on July 12.
For more information on the show, you may go to www.lsuagcenter.com and search for State Horse Show.
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Contact: Clint Depew at (225) 578-2219, or cdepew@agcenter.lsu.edu
Writer: Mary Ann Van Osdell at (318) 741-7430, ext. 1104, or mvanosdell@agcenter.lsu.edu