ORISKANY — Oneida County 4-H members were at Cornell University in Ithaca recently to participate in the New York State Horse Bowl Contest, which allows youngsters to showcase their knowledge of horses in a competitive format.

The 4-H members who participated in the NYS Horse Bowl originally qualified in March at the Regional Horse Bonanza held at the Cornell Cooperative Ext. Lewis County office.

Participants on the area’s junior teams included: Dixie Wilson, of Boonville; Ryleigh Stammers, of Boonville; and Eden Czajka, of Boonville; as well as Melanie Beers, of Clinton; Emily O’Brien, of New Hartford; and Colin Sullivan, of Constableville. The team of Beers, O’Brien and Sullivan placed fifth overall.

“The Oneida County juniors did remarkably well for being some of the youngest contestants in their division, as well as it being their first time competing at the state level! It was a great experience for all, and it has motivated many of them to keep studying and learning all they can about horses,” said Lisa Farney, 4-H team lead.

Lanelle Vile, of Port Leyden, competed for the Senior Horse Bowl Team from Erie County and helped contribute to its second place finish out of 12 teams overall.