News Release Distributed 04/15/14

BATON ROUGE, La. – The LSU AgCenter has announced that after eight years in West Monroe, the 4-H and FFA State Horse Show and Contest will be held July 8-12, 2014, at the Burton Complex in Lake Charles.

The 45th annual event is part of the educational project work undertaken by 4-H and FFA horse exhibitors, said AgCenter livestock and horse show manager Dwayne Nunez.

“Our goal is to provide a wholesome environment where 4-H and FFA members can showcase and enhance the skills learned through their hard work,” Nunez said.

In a change for this year, high point awards will be given to junior and senior participants in four divisions – western, ranch, hunter and timed events.

“We’re able to increase the number of divisions because the Burton Complex has two arenas,” Nunez said. “This gives contestants more opportunities.”

Nunez said he expects the expanded divisions will lead to more youths participating in the show.

In addition to competitions with animals, the show also includes 4-H and FFA horse judging contests along with public speaking and individual and team demonstration contests, Nunez said.

Rick Bogren