Whether a first time showman, an equine veteran, or just have a passion for horses with no previous experience, the 4-H Horse Project provides amazing opportunities for all levels to learn about the horse both inside and outside of the show arena as well as connect with our versatile equine community. We are committed to introducing all aspects of the horse by offering Hippology (the study of the horse), Horse Judging, and multiple opportunities to show in a welcoming environment.
The horse project includes Hippology, Horse Bowl, and Horse Judging, though all have separate meeting times. All eligibility requirements are made by the grade the student was on January 1, 2024.
How do I sign up?
Review Program Details
Please read through the eligibility, dates, and policies closely! This information is very important. Free programs like Animal Science, Horse, and Communications are available to join year round.
*if you are also joining a paid class, please start by paying for that class on its page!
Register Online
You must register with our online Google Form and select that you want to sign up for a free program. Please answer all questions and ensure that your information is accurate – all communications will be sent via email and you might miss something if there’s an error! You may also sign up for any other free programs or interest lists.
Horse Judging
Horse Judging is designed to teach participants good conformation (structural correctness, balance, and muscling), breed character, and performance ideals in different breeds of horses. Participants learn how to evaluate horses based on knowledge and fact, make a decision, and defend it.
Any 4-H member that is part of the Horse Project may participate in Horse Judging – you don’t need to own a horse!
Practice Dates:
- Monday, January 20, 2025
- Monday, January 27, 2025
- Monday, February 3, 2025
- Monday, February 10, 2025
- Monday, February 17, 2025
- Monday, March 3, 2025
- Monday, March 10, 2025
- Monday, March 17, 2025
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Ag Expo Park, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN 37064
To Sign Up:
- Sign up to join the Horse Project here: https://tiny.utk.edu/joinwilco4h
- Keep an eye on your email for updates!
Hippology/Horse Bowl
Hippology is the study of horses. This contest tests the participant’s knowledge of horses and horse related items from any aspect of the horse industry. Contest elements include a written exam, horse judging, identification of items and/or their uses, and solving a problem and presenting the solution. Horse Bowl is answering horse trivia using buzzers and teams.
Any 4-H member in 3rd – 12th grade that is part of the Horse Project may participate in Hippology or Horse Bowl.
Hippology/Horse Bowl Schedule:
Monday, September 30, 2024
Monday, October 14, 2024
Monday, October 21, 2024
Monday, October 28, 2024
Monday, November 4, 2024
Monday, November 11, 2024
Monday, November 18, 2024
Monday, December 2, 2024
Monday, December 9, 2024
Monday, January 6, 2025 – County Hippology Contest
Monday, January 13, 2025 – County Horse Bowl Contest
Practices and county contests take place at the Ag Expo Park, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN 37064.
To Sign Up:
- Sign up to join the Horse Project and keep an eye on your email for updates!
Class Policies
Some meeting times may have to be moved due to weather or personal emergencies. It is our policy to communicate these as soon as possible and try to find a makeup day that works for everyone.
What is 4-H?
4-H is a youth development organization dedicated to hands-on educational programming and offers a unique blend of learning and fun! 4-H instills essential life skills like recordkeeping and responsibility, setting your student up for success in academics and beyond. With access to college scholarships and leadership roles, 4-H empowers youth to thrive as future leaders. 4-H’ers get many opportunities to exercise citizenship, which fosters a sense of community and global awareness and nurtures well-rounded individuals.
Through fun, educational experiences and the lifelong friendships forged within the 4-H community, your child will grow both academically and personally, laying a strong foundation for a bright and promising future!
Interested in more classes with Extension?
Tiffani Doyle
Tiffani began as a parent volunteer in Williamson County 4-H. During the day, Tiffani serves as an Operations Manager, but she continues her passion for creative student education and life experiences with Horse Project.