Oliver takes second at state riding competition

Susquehanna County 4-H member Kelly Oliver and her horse, Lady, from the Blue Ribbon Driven 4-H Club competed and placed second in the 4-H Club Division D – Senior 4-H Members Riding Horses at the 2014 PA 4-H State Competitive Trail Ride, Sept. 19-20, in Rothrock State Forest.

4-H members, leaders, family and friends arrived with their horses on Friday, Sept. 19, went through pre-ride inspections, and prepared to participate in the competitive trail ride on Sept. 20. The 2014 Keystone Ride had participants from Bedford, Centre, Clearfield, Jefferson, Lancaster and Susquehanna counties.

The ride also offers horsemanship awards for each youth division. The horsemanship division is judged on overall care and handling of the horse or pony before, during and after the ride. Kelly placed first in the Senior Division.

This is Kelly’s third year competing. Kelly’s mother and 4-H Leader, Connie Oliver has competed in the 4-H State Competitive Trail Ride’s adult division.

The 4-H competitive trail ride, formally known as the Keystone Ride, has officially been renamed to the Richard C. Ely Memorial Ride to honor the memory of volunteer and incredible supporter Richard Ely from Somerset County. Dick Ely was an integral part of the competitive trail ride since its inception and had a passion for this event and the youth that participated.

Competitive trail riding takes place on well-marked trails at a timed pace. Judges observe the ride, inspecting the horses before and after the competition. The ride is not a race against time, although competitors must complete the ride within a specified time range to avoid a penalty. Scoring is based primarily on the overall condition of the horse, with points subtracted for any changes in the horse’s condition.

This ride is an annual event coordinated by members of the Penn State Extension Youth Equine Team, faculty and staff. Dr. Scott McAllister, Centre Equine Practice, served as the veterinary judge.

The Competitive Trail Ride project is open to all 4-H horse members in Pennsylvania. For more information on 4-H horse programs, contact your county Penn State Extension office or go to: http://anmalscience.psu.edu/4-h/horses/4-h-horse-program.