Over 900 youth with 996 horses participated in performance and production classes and special events at the 52nd Annual Pennsylvania State 4-H Horse Show held recently at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg.

The state show is the final competition of the year for 4-H horse members enrolled in performance and production projects.To be eligible for the show, members must advance through qualifying competitions at county, regional and district levels. Events include breed conformation and futurity classes for horses 5 years old and younger in the production division.The performance division includes showmanship, equitation, pleasure, over fences, driving, western riding, reining, trail and timed events.Among the Monroe County State Champions are: Christina Siragusa, Kunkletown, first place, Hunter Seat Equitation (on the flat), Junior; Taylor Edman, Effort, first place for her two year old filly in the Production Division.Reserve Grand Champion: Christina Siragusa, second place, Classic Hunter Under Saddle Horses (Junior Rider).Also winning awards at the state horse show are Michele Gannon, Kunkletown, sixth place, Open Trail Ponies; and Julie Sobers, Saylorsburg, tenth place, Open Trail Horses (Jr Rider).Monroe County was well represented in the Production Division of the State Horse Show with Lacy Warner, Reeders fourth place for her three year old gelding; Elizabeth Hans, Aquashicola; and Brooke Buckmann, Saylorsburg; advanced competed in the State Horse Show.There are many 4-H projects involving youth throughout Pennsylvania. Programs are designed to develop life skills in youth and knowledge of horse production, use, and management. For additional information on 4-H horse programs in Monroe County, contact Penn State Extension at (570) 421-6430.