The Illinois State Champion 4-H Horse Bowl Team included Bureau County 4-H member, Kiersten Pratt, second from left. (Photo contributed)

CHAMPAIGN - Did you know that 4-H helps with building strong study habits, self-confidence and public speaking skills? 4-H members from across the state recently competed in the Illinois 4-H Horse Speaking Contest and the State 4-H Horse Bowl & Hippology Contest, which were held April 29-30 on the University of Illinois campus in Champaign.

Kiersten Pratt, an eight-year member of Bureau County 4-H, was captain of the Carroll and Bureau County senior team that placed first in the Horse Bowl division. The Horse Bowl operates much the same way as school academic quiz bowls, in which teams of youth answer a series of questions as quickly and accurately as possible. The questions can come from all fields of the equine industry. Teams that were successful in regional championships then advanced to the state competition.

Pratt also placed second in extemporaneous speech and was a top finisher, placing third in total points earned, in the State 4-H Horse Bowl Contest on April 30.

Through 4-H, young people with a passion for horses can participate in educational contests related to the equine industry regardless of whether or not they own a horse. These educational programs enhance members’ knowledge of horse health, breed characteristics, management and feeding.

Many skills and strengths are developed by participating in Horse Bowl including critical thinking, teamwork, adaptability and time management. Youth are introduced to the diversity of science and kids often study at a level well above their regular scholastic mark. Most importantly, team coaches note, participants gain the ability to work with each other as a team.

For more information on 4-H opportunities for youth, ages 8-18, or if you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please call (815) 875-2878. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.