Ready to Be a Horse Science Champion? Join 4-H Hippology!

What is Hippology?

Forget the misconception that the 4-H Horse Project is just for riders! The Sherburne County 4-H Hippology Contest is the ultimate proving ground for your knowledge of equine science.

The term "Hippology" comes from the Greek words meaning "the study of the horse." This fun, competitive event tests how much you know about every aspect of horses, from the inside out!

No Horse? No Problem!

This is the perfect project for horse lovers who don't own a horse, are waiting to get one, or just want to focus on the science and academic side of horsemanship.

You do NOT need to own a horse or ride to be a champion in Hippology! 

How the Contest Works

The Hippology contest is divided into phases designed to test your knowledge, application, and teamwork:

• Written Exam: Test your comprehensive knowledge of horse breeds, history, diseases, and management practices.

• Identification Stations: Quickly identify various items, such as tack, feed, parasites, equipment, and even parts of the horse's anatomy.

• Horse Judging: Evaluate horses for conformation (structure) and performance based on accepted standards (this is a paper or picture-based evaluation, not on live animals you own).

• Team Problem-Solving: Work with your teammates to solve a real-world equine scenario, like planning a diet or creating a stable management schedule, and present your solution.

Key Information for Sherburne County

• Who Can Join? Any enrolled 4-H member interested in horses who is in 6th grade!

• When is the Contest? The contest typically takes place in the fall, after all your hard work and study.

• When to Sign Up? Registration for the Hippology contest usually takes place in July! You must be enrolled in 4-H before the registration deadline, so don't wait to join!

Ready to Prove Your Horse Knowledge?

Start your 4-H adventure today to receive all the important summer and fall contest deadlines!

Click Here to Learn More or Join 4-H

Contact the Sherburne County Extension Office

For questions about joining 4-H and learning more about how to join the Hippology team:

Sam Stone

Extension Educator

ston0392@umn.edu

763-765-3077