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University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Animal Science Department

Serving Animal Industries

Advanced Horseman: Level IV

4-H members qualifying at this level must know and practice all the elements involved in working and enjoying horses. Evaluation of each member's qualifications will be based upon his or her ability to demonstrate their knowledge and skill. The evaluator must be able to see the rider and horse work as a team without fear or force. Riders will be evaluated on competence shown in all phases of working with their horse, including leading, grooming, saddling, halter showing and actual riding.

Note: Horses used for the Skills Test of the Advanced Horseman level should be 4 years old or older.

All of the following must be successfully completed before this level is passed:

  1. Skills Test, including first aid kit and feeding knowledge.
    1. Note: Level IV Skills Test Examiner must be chosen from the list of current examiners .
  2. A 10-20 minute club demonstration on any of the points mentioned in the Skills Test.

Suggested Demonstration Topics:

a . Grooming/conditioning a horse for show.
b Showing a horse at halter
c. Aids for maneuvers of a horse.
d. Use of hands.
e. Hoof care for horses.
f. Horseman's knots.
g. Bits and how they work.
h. Safety around horses.
i. Determining age of horse by teeth.
j. Flying change of lead.
k. Training for advanced maneuvers: turns, lateral work, extension, collection, etc.
l. Emergency first aid for horses.
m. Basic feeding management.
n. Leg wraps and/or bandaging a horse's leg.
o. How to tell if a horse is healthy or sick.

C. A written report (at least two pages) describing how the horse responded to preparation and training for the Skills Test. If any difficulties were encountered in any one or more of the maneuvers, include what they were and what was done to correct them in the report. This report is due on or before the day of the riding test.

Preparing for the Tests:

  • Questions and requirements for the Skills Test were based on the Skills Test and Study Guide.
  • References for this level: "Nebraska 4-H Horse Project" manual, "Horse Science", " Nebraska 4-H Horse Show and Judging Guide".
    • All are available from Cooperative Extension.
  • NOTE: Horse Science is available through the National 4-H Catalog.
  • Additional supportive reference: 1)The Horse by Evans, Borton, Hinz and VanVleck; 2) Horse Industry Handbook by the American Youth Horse Council; 3)HorseQuest web site http://www.extension.org/horses
  • Helpful Web Sites