The Endless Mountains Riding Club (EMRC) will host a Children’s Horse Show at the Wyoming County Fairgrounds on Saturday, August 29. This is just another example of efforts by organizations to keep youths involved with agriculture and animal husbandry active during the coronavirus pandemic.
“With the halt in 4-H this year, we are doing everything we can to help the future,” said Jacqui Hunter, president of the EMRC, which solicited donations from corporations like Cabot to cover operating expenses and other materials. “We are doing the best we can to keep the costs down for the kids.”
The Wyoming County Fairground committee is donating the use of its facilities for the Children’s Horse Show. Sponsors are providing funding for everything from ribbons for participants to fees for the professional judges.
The Penn State Extension cannot conduct its typical programming right now due to overcrowding concerns. So, parents of 4-H children and the leaders of organizations in Bradford, Susquehanna, Wyoming and Lackawanna counties have worked together to coordinate and activities that are similar to what 4-H would be offering.
Gates open at 8 a.m. and the competition begins at 9 a.m. More than 100 participants are expected spanning across 57 classes from English and Western to gaming and minis. There are classes for children with special needs, as well as beginners. The Wyoming-Lackawanna County Dairy Princess and other dairy royalty are also expected to make a visit.
“The event will be run simultaneously in two arenas, and the public is invited,” Hunter explained. “The facility is so big that people can sit safely apart without an issue.” Additional precautions for participants and guests include hand sanitizing stations, plexiglass at the registration window, and changing out of obstacles.
If you cannot attend on Saturday, consider contributing to the EMRC’s mission by following them on Facebook or calling Jacqui Hunter at (570) 250-6814.
