SE Wisconsin Minis

Every year there is a wonderful event at State Fair Park in West Allis, WI. It is called the
Wisconsin 4-H Horse Expo. Over 700 horses and 900 youth participate and in years past,
there have been more than 40 miniature horses entered in the various driving classes which
include Obstacle, Pleasure, and Reinsmanship. There are classes for ponies over 38” and
minis under 38” beside the standard size and draft horse driving classes.

A 4-H member must qualify to participate in this ‘end of the year’ show. They had to have received a blue ribbon in at least one of the above classes at their local 4-H County Shows.
Therefore, not only have these youths been practicing all summer, but they are the best of the
best and their skill and team work with these horses is fun and exciting to watch. The horses
are groomed and the equipment is first rate from beautifully made harnesses to the driving
carts and wagons. Some driving classes include pairs and 4 in hand.

This year, the Wisconsin 4-H Horse Expo will take place from September 17-20, 2009.
I have attended this Horse Expo in the past and never have been disappointed. Last year all
the minis classes took place on just one of the four days. I do not know what the schedule is
for this year. The web site that I will be checking, for more details is:

http://4h.uwex.edu/events/Wisconsin4-HHorseExpo.cfm

This event takes place in the Coliseum and therefore everyone watching is under cover and
sitting on bleachers. The horses are stalled in the various State Fair barns and so it is not only
a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy watching horse activities performed by youth but
you can visit the horses in the barns and watch the kids groom and harness up their horses.
Hope to see you there!