Youth & Collegiate Educational Contests

You don’t have to enter the show pen to compete at the Congress. Each year, youth and college students bring their knowledge, judgment, teamwork and communication skills to the All American Quarter Horse Congress. These educational contests give the next generation a national stage to learn, compete and connect with others who share their passion for horses.

The 2026 contests take place October 13–14 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Horse Bowl

Tuesday, October 13

Teams put their equine knowledge to the test in a fast-paced question-and-answer competition. Topics span horse care, anatomy, health, management and the wider horse industry.

Communications

Tuesday, October 13

Contestants build confidence as speakers while sharing their knowledge of horses. The contest includes speaking and demonstration opportunities; consult the official rules for the available divisions, presentation requirements and judging criteria.

Hippology

Wednesday, October 14

Hippology challenges contestants to apply what they know about the horse. The contest includes an examination, identification stations, horse judging and a team problem that calls for collaboration and practical reasoning.

Youth & Collegiate Horse Judging

Wednesday, October 14

Youth and collegiate contestants evaluate halter and performance classes, place horses and present oral reasons for selected classes. The contest rewards careful observation, sound decisions and the ability to explain those decisions clearly. Youth and collegiate divisions have separate eligibility and contest rules.

Rules, entry forms and schedules

View the 2026 contest rules, entry forms and schedules on the Ohio 4-H website. Coaches and contestants should review the rules for their specific contest and division before entering.

Questions? Contact Dr. Kimberly Cole at The Ohio State University: cole.436@osu.edu or 614-292-2625.