Hopes of making the Maine 4H Equestrian Team

On June 22 and 23 in Skowhegan, 44 riders and eight teen leaders arrived with hopes of making the Maine 4H Equestrian Team.
 Eight riders and one teen leader represented Aroostook County at the event, and when the team was announced June 24, all nine “County Kids,” as they prefer to be called, were selected to the elite team.
It all began in April, with riders and teen leaders signing “intent to participate” forms, acknowledging their interest in trying out for the team, which competes at the Big E in West Springfield, Mass. every fall. More than 70 forms were received.
Each participant had to complete a portfolio which contained pertinent information regarding them and their horse. These packets were worth 50 points, with the possibility of earning up to seven additional points.
Once in Skowhegan, all participants took a 50-question Knowledge test. The riders were also judged in Fitting and Showmanship, Equitation class, Pleasure class, Stable Management and two horse judging classes.
Teen leaders were also scored on their packet, the 50-question Knowledge test, demonstration of leadership skills, horse judging and a personal interview.
Each rider could bring a groom to assist them, with all eight County riders bringing grooms.
Making the team in order of placement were: No. 1, Kaitlin Russell of Linneus, a member of Wild Mustangs 4H; No. 4, Alyssa Kilcollins of Fort Fairfield, a member of Mane Eventers 4H; No. 6, Brianna Hanington of Wytopitlock, Wild Mustangs 4H; No. 7, Nicole Michaud of Presque Isle, Mane Eventers; No. 11, Callie Foster of Linneus, Wild Mustangs; No. 13, Caitlyn Esancy of Fort Fairfield, Mane Eventers; No. 16, Desiree Foster of Linneus, Wild Mustangs; and No. 17, Kori Kinney of Presque Isle, Mane Eventers.
The local teen leader selected was Sarah Tompkins of Presque Isle and a member of the Mane Eventers.
Several of the County youth received high point awards, including Kilcollins for high point horse judging, pleasure and equitation; Michaud for stable management; Russell and Hannington for packets; and Foster for fitting.
This year’s Big E will take place Sept. 19-21.