The first Equine is for All event invited Kentucky middle and high school students to learn about the equine industry and educational programs, along with grooming and basic horse handling, maneuvers and commands at the Spy Coast Farm Equine Education Center.
Organized by the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Office of Diversity, UK Ag Equine Programs, UK Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS), and Frankie's Corner Little Thoroughbred Crusade (FCLTC), students experienced in real time how to work with horses through several workshops and trainings — supervised by current UK MANRRS students in the equine science and management and animal and food sciences programs, and professional experts.
One of those professional experts was Jermo Reese, founder and clinician of FCLTC, who teaches equine to youth using an education-based curriculum and basic horsemanship. Reese also first imagined Equine is for All.
Over half of the students in attendance were novices regarding their knowledge or personal interactions with equine. For Reese, this was a big opportunity to introduce many students to the industry and horses.
“We’re giving students across Kentucky an opportunity to learn hands-on skills,” Reese said. “Equine is one of the largest sectors in Kentucky. Occupations such as law, any type of business or any type of medicine, can apply to the equine world as well.”
During the showmanship clinic, students observed Reese and the trained UK MANRRS group safely leading their horses, walking and trotting, communicating basic commands forelimbs and hindlegs, as well as simple steps to begin developing trust and bonding with the horse.
Students also learned about other facets of equine, including the equine science and management program and a showcase from UK Polo and UK Equestrian, part of the UK Ag Equine’s clubs and teams.
Additionally, members of the City of Lexington’s police department, representing the Mounted Unit, talked about the value of horses in keeping the city safe. A professional animal communicator also discussed the importance of listening, setting boundaries, and having empathy to establish a better relationship with horses.
Tyler Crutcher, a student at Leestown Middle School, shared why he was attending Equine is for All.
“I didn’t really know much about horses, so I thought it'd be good to explore and dive into new things,” Crutcher said. “I appreciate everyone using their time to teach me and everybody else about horses. Being here is opening my eyes to new things.”
Mia Farrell, associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion in the UK Martin-Gatton College, and her team, partnered with Reese to bring Equine is for All to fruition.
Source: uky.edu
Photo Credit: gettyimages-patrick-jennings
Categories: Kentucky, Rural Lifestyle