The following article appears in the September/October issue of the Clover Flyer :

Congratulations to the 36 riders who will represent Waukesha County at the 2009 State 4-H Horse Expo.

In many 4-H projects county fair represents the end of the 4-H season. For others a trip to the Wisconsin State Fair is earned with a championship ribbon in their class. Within the 20+ Waukesha County Horse Projects hard work and a blue ribbon ride, in select classes at county fair, earn you the privilege of representing the county at the Wisconsin State 4-H Horse Expo, September 17-20, at State Fair Park.

Imagine trying to fit over 700 horses, and riders, into the already full Wisconsin State Fair! For this reason we have our own dedicated event filled with 4 days of early morning to sometimes late night competitive events. We even have a wide variety of educational classes where project members can earn a trip to regional or national competition and represent the State of Wisconsin.

Waukesha County has consistently been well represented at the Expo. We are known as one of the top counties in the state for delivering quality participants. Every year we strive to improve and do better than the previous year. Last year we earned a new honor receiving the State, 1st place, Barn Award for the first time ever. Counties are judged on decoration, theme, safety, cleanliness, knowledge and personality of riders.

For most 4-Hers this is the biggest riding event they will ever participate in. Many riders will tell you that your first year at state is spent adjusting and getting over being overwhelmed by the level of riding, the number of horses and riders, and the stress of wanting to do well. There is no better feeling than knowing you have been recognized as one of the best and you are gaining experience and knowledge to pass on to your fellow 4-Hers in hopes of earning them a trip to state.

If you know of any Waukesha County riders going to the State 4-H Expo wish them good luck and congratulate them on a great season.