Idaho Horsemanship Award

Established in 1975, this program recognizes Idaho youth having developed in-depth equine knowledge, communication, management and equitation skills. Applicants must:

• Be 14 to 18 years old as of Jan. 1 of current year
• Participate in 4-H or another organized youth horse program
• Own or manage the horse used in the performance phase a minimum of 120 days prior to that test

This rigorous award process consists of five components:

1. Application — emphasizes youth leadership and citizenship experiences

2. Written Test — consists of 100 equine knowledge and management questions (true/false, multiple choice and short answer). Youth must score 70% or higher (min. 175 points) to advance to the next steps.

   The next three components (performance testing) typically occurs the same day at a location established by each Extension district 4-H horse coordinator. Eligible youth participate using either Western or English attire/equipment.

3. Grooming, Handling and Groundwork — assesses knowledge of basic grooming, feet and leg care, handling, saddling, lounging and appropriate safety practices (150 points possible)
4. Equitation — includes basic appointments, posture, rail performance and ability to precisely perform a series of designated individual maneuvers (300 points possible)
5. Demonstration/Illustrated Talk — evaluates youth’s ability to effectively communicate pertinent knowledge related to some aspect of the horse industry (200 points possible)

Participants must earn at least 90 percent of the total possible points (585 or higher) within the performance testing to receive this award.

All components must be successfully completed within the same testing period (Jan. 1 to Oct. 1 of the current year); prior year scores cannot be carried forward.

Below are links to the application booklet and related resources.

• Application Booklet #72660 (PDF) (Word)
• Sample Written Test Questions (PDF)
• Written Test Reference List (PDF)