RENSSELAER CO., N.Y. — Rensselaer County 4-H members shined as they adjusted to new ways to carry out long standing 4-H equine educational programs and support each other. Recently, Rensselaer County members arrived to Cornell University to participate in both the NYS 4-H Horse Bowl and Communications Contests. Members started practicing for Horse Bowl and Horse Communications at the beginning of the year. Most practices and trainings were done remote. Members and coaches persevered to prepare for hopeful live state events. The Junior Horse Bowl Team was led by Captain Kira Colarossi of Melrose and team members Thomas Colarossi also of Melrose, Emilee Roadcap and Sophia Kiley both of Troy. The Rensselaer County Junior Team placed 3rd overall and individually Thomas placed 8th. Congratulations to the members and a huge thank you to the Horse Bowl Junior Team Coach, Rebekah Colarossi.
Following the Horse Bowl Contest members stayed for the Horse Communications contest, where four Rensselaer County 4-H members competed. Horse Bowl Team-mates were attentive and enthusiastic audience members for their fellow members competing in the Horse Communications contest. Leading up to the NYS 4-H Horse Communications contest, members qualified for the state contest at the regional 4-H Horse Communications contest. At the regional contest in the senior division Kaylie Millar, Angelina Broderick-Keelen and Nicole Tilley placed first, second and third respectively. In the regional junior division Emilee Roadcap and Bridget Rowland placed 1st and 2nd respectively. All regional presenters qualified to go on to the state contest. Three of these members participated remotely and one live. Congratulations to Emilee Roadcap and Bridget Rowland for placing 6th and 4th respectively in the Junior Division and Kaylie Millar and Nicole Tilley for placing 5th and 7th respectively for the Senior Division.
Thank you to all the volunteers, parents and members who helped prepare, transport and assist the day of the contests and the NYS 4-H Horse Program for hosting the live contests at Cornell University. 4-H Equine Educational events foster networking and enhance the development of life skills and STEM abilities through Equine Science. For more information about this program and other 4-H Youth Development opportunities, contact your respective Cornell Cooperative Extension office. Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities.
–CCE Rensselear County
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