WA State 4-H Equine Presentation Contest Rules
Table of Contents
General Contest Rules & Information
Category Rules and Scoring Criteria
Washington State 4-H Equine Presentation Contest Rules
NEW 2025-2026: Intermediates are now invited to compete in the WA State 4-H Equine Presentations Contest.
The Washington State 4-H Equine Presentations Contest has moved to a virtual format hosted on Zoom. Contestants must use a Zoom account to participate. Virtual contest procedures are outlined below.
The Equine Presentation Contest is comprised of three categories: Public Speaking, Individual Presentation, and Team Presentation. Individual and Team presentations utilize visual aids. Public Speaking is delivered as a speech, and no visual aids are allowed.
Contestants may participate in only one category per year.
Equine presentations differ from other 4-H Public Presentations in two ways:
- Subject matter must pertain to the equine industry. Presentations not appropriately related to the equine industry can be disqualified at the judges’ discretion.
- Each contest category has very defined time constraints and associated penalties, which are outlined in the scoring criteria below.
Speeches and presentations should be original and constructed and delivered by the 4-H member. Any form of plagiarism is strictly prohibited. Plagiarism can include but is not limited to copying parts of a speech or presentation previously presented by another youth or individual; using text, phrases, photos or diagrams from an article, video, book, movie, or other published work without giving credit to the author. Competitor’s resource citation should be specific, accurate and honest. If contest officials confirm plagiarism, the contestant will be automatically disqualified, with a notation on the scorecard to reflect such infraction. If another contestant, coach, or parent can provide proof of plagiarism, they must present their findings prior to the awards ceremony to the contest chair. The chair will then communicate the protest to the appropriate parties and/or State 4-H Program Director (or designee) for review to make a ruling.
Business attire or dress appropriate to the speech is acceptable. Improper attire will result in appropriate point deduction on the scorecard. Improper attire will be determined at the discretion of the judges.
Registration
- All contestants must be enrolled 4-H members in good standing.
- Seniors and Intermediates are eligible to compete in this WA State 4-H contest.
- Each county or tribal location is invited to enter up to four Senior contestants (one in Individual Presentation, one in Public Speaking, and two in Team Presentation); and up to four Intermediate contestants (one in Individual Presentation, one in Public Speaking, and two in Team Presentation).
- Individuals may be selected by any procedure the county or tribal location deems appropriate.
- Registration is hosted in 4-H Online. Registration will open January 1.
Judges, Ties, and Danish Scoring
Judging criteria and scoring detail is arranged by contest category and outlined below.
Judges are chosen at the sole discretion of the state contest coordinator. Three judges will score each presentation independently. After each presentation is completed, judges will assign their final scores. Judges may confer and discuss their evaluations. The average of the three scores is tabulated to determine the Danish award and final placings. The contest coordinator may review and check tabulation for mathematical accuracy.
Ties will be broken using the following process:
- First, by combining the top three judges’ Delivery Score
- Second, by the top three judges’ combined Presentation Format Score
- Third, by the top three judges’ combined Credit and Content Score
The recommended Danish ribbon score breakdown is:
- Blue = 86 points and above
- Red = 85 points to 70 points
- White = 69 points and below
National Contest Information
The top Blue Danish scoring Senior in each contest category will qualify to represent Washington State 4-H at the Eastern National 4-H Round Up (ENRU), which is held in Louisville, Kentucky in November of the same year. After competing in a category at the ENRU, members are ineligible to compete in the same category again.
Seniors who qualify to compete in the Eastern National 4-H Horse Round Up must accept or decline their qualification to compete in the ENRU on the same day they are notified of their qualification. If declined, the next qualified individual will qualify. All individuals will retain their awards regardless of their decision.
It is possible that a Senior contestant who is age-eligible to compete in our WA State 4-H Equine Presentations Contest is ineligible to compete in the Eastern National 4-H Round Up Contest. Age eligibility rules for the ENRU can be found on the Eastern National 4-H Round Up website under Rules.
Travel for the WA State 4-H Equestrian Team is arranged and supervised through the State 4-H Office. ENRU Contest Registration fees are paid by WA State 4-H. All travel expenses are the responsibility of the member and their support systems. Information regarding travel expectations and expense is available on the WA State 4-H Horse webpage.
Intermediates do not advance to the Eastern National 4-H Round Up Contest.
Virtual Contest Rules and Procedures
The virtual platform used for this contest will be Zoom, hosted by Washington State University. Contestants must use a Zoom account to participate. Visit www.zoom.us to create a free account.
Contestants should be familiar with Zoom and keep the constraints of Zoom in mind. For example, the judges must be able to see visual aids or props and the speaker simultaneously.
Practicing on Zoom prior to the state contest is highly recommended.
A Tech Check will be scheduled prior to the contest date to allow contestants an opportunity to check their connection and Zoom skills. On the date scheduled, the Zoom room will be open for a designated time with a waiting room enabled. Contestants will be
admitted one-on-one in a first-come-first-served model. Note that this is not a time to practice presentations. Rather, it is a time to make sure everything the contestant sets up works as they are expecting it to.
Once the contestant has started their speech or presentation, they may not receive assistance from any coach, parent, audience member, or other person, which includes, but is not limited to, the stroking of any key on a computer or other audio-visual device. This rule applies to assistance with Zoom features, such as screen sharing, and other technical challenges. The penalty for violating this rule is disqualification.
Members should stand up for the duration of their presentation. The judges must be able to see visual aids (if allowed) and the speaker simultaneously.
For connectivity purposes, it is recommended that all other devices in the household be turned off. Direct Ethernet connection is recommended over router connection. County or tribal location 4-H Staff may be able to provide assistance prior to the contest to help members become familiar with the best practices and features of Zoom.
An audience may observe via Zoom. Audience will be muted, and the chat feature will be disabled. If the audience is in the same room as the contestant, they must not interact with the contestant.
In-Person Contest Procedures
When the contest is held in-person, contest officials will provide a podium, easels, projector screen, and two tables. Additional equipment (e.g., projector) must be supplied by the contestant. A microphone or other public address system will not be used in any category.
Public Speaking Contest Rules
The subject must pertain to the equine industry. Speeches not appropriately related to the equine industry can be disqualified at the discretion of the judges.
No visual aids may be used.
No coaching from any coach, parent, audience member, or other person during the speech.
An audience may observe via Zoom. Audience will be muted, and the chat feature will be disabled. If the audience is in the same room as the contestant, they must not interact with the contestant.
Once the individual has started their speech, they may not receive assistance from any coach, parent, audience member, or other person, which includes, but is not limited to: the stroking of any key on a computer or other audio-visual device. This rule applies to assistance with Zoom features, such as screen sharing, and other technical challenges. The penalty for violating this rule is disqualification.
Contestants may use notes. However, excessive use of notes may be penalized at the judges’ discretion.
A microphone or public address system will not be used during the contests, but a podium will be provided. This rule is not applicable in a virtual format.
During the event, contestants may introduce themselves by name, club, and speech topic.
Speeches should be 7-10 minutes in length. Three points will be deducted from the total score on each judge’s scoresheet for every minute (or fraction of a minute) under 7 minutes or over 10 minutes.
Contestants should cite their major references after the conclusion of their speech. This time will not be counted in the allotted time.
Only the judges may ask questions of the contestants in the contest. Question time will not be counted in the allotted time. Contestants should repeat the question and then answer it.
Contestants may have their own speech recorded by their coach or other designee. No videotaping or photographing of speeches is otherwise allowed during the contest, including cell phone video or audio recording.
Contestant order will be determined by the contest coordinator and communicated in advance through email address and/or phone number supplied during registration.
Speech Format – 20 points possible
- Speech followed a logical order
- Introduction was adequate and drew attention to the topic
- Main discussion was well organized and adequately covered the chosen topic
- Summary was brief and clearly reiterated the key points
Knowledge of Subject Matter – 25 points possible
- Facts and information presented were accurate
- High level of preparation was shown as evidenced by the amount and depth of information provided about the subject
- Approved practices were discussed
Delivery – 25 points possible
- Speaker was appropriately dressed
- Speaker spoke directly to and looked at the judges and maintained strong eye contact
- Speech pace was consistent and appropriate; not too fast or too slow
- Speaker displayed enthusiasm while presenting
- Speaker had good voice control and quality
- Words were pronounced correctly, and proper word choice was used
- If notes were used, it was done without detracting from the speech
- Speaker seemed to choose words at the time they were spoken as opposed to a memorized speech.
Credit and Content – 20 points possible
- Information was obtained from a reputable and/or equine research-based information or sources
- Credit was given to the sources of information if it was appropriate
- Content was appropriately related to the equine industry
Questions – 10 points possible
- Speaker handled questions easily and with confidence
- Speaker was thoughtful in responses and thoroughly answered questions correctly
- Response to questions indicates a deeper knowledge and understanding of the topic
Time limits and Penalties
- Minimum of 7 minutes to maximum of 10 minutes
- 3 points will be deducted from the total score for every minute (or fraction of a minute) under 7 minutes or over 10 minutes.
- References are not to be included in the time limit.
Individual Presentation Contest Rules
The subject must pertain to the horse industry. Presentations not appropriately related to the horse industry can be disqualified at the discretion of the judges.
The presentation may be a demonstration or illustrated talk. All references to the term “presentation” in these rules include either demonstration or illustrated talk. A demonstration is defined as a presentation of a step-by-step procedure with an end product or result. An illustrated talk is defined as a presentation of an idea or topic that uses visual aids to convey the message.
Both presentation forms are acceptable and will be evaluated equally, although the delivery methods are different as defined above. Both should utilize visual aids to help convey the major points of the presentation and more than one type of visual aid is preferable. Visual aids may include but are not limited to: handouts, posters, props, videos, slides, and computer-generated media (e.g., PowerPoint, websites, etc.). No live animals may be used.
Contestants may use notes. However, excessive use of notes may be counted against the contestant. This will be at the discretion of the judges.
A microphone or other public address system will NOT be used during the contest.
Contestants must supply their own props. Two tables and chairs will be provided for the presenter’s use. This provision does not apply to contests conducted virtually.
Contestants must provide all of their own equipment, including projector, etc.
Creative audio-visual aids may be used, but the contestant must be involved in making or designing them.
During the contest, the contestant may introduce themselves by name, club, and presentation topic.
Presentations should be 9 to 12 minutes in length. Three points will be deducted from the total score on each judge’s scorecard for every minute (or fraction of a minute) under 9 minutes or over 12 minutes.
Contestants should cite their major references after the conclusion of their presentation. This will not be counted in the allotted time.
Only the judges may ask questions of the contestants in the contest. Question time will not be counted in the allotted time. Contestants should repeat the question and then answer it.
No coaching from any coach, parent, audience member, or other person during the presentation.
An audience may observe via Zoom. Audience will be muted, and the chat feature will be disabled. If the audience is in the same room as the contestant, they must not interact with the contestant.
Once the individual has started their speech, they may not receive assistance from any coach, parent, audience member, or other person, which includes, but is not limited to: the stroking of any key on a computer or other audio-visual device. This rule applies to assistance with Zoom features, such as screen sharing, and other technical challenges. The penalty for violating this rule is disqualification.
Contestants may have their own presentation recorded by their coach or other designee. No videotaping or photographing of presentations is otherwise allowed during the contest, including cell phone video or audio recording.
Contestant order will be determined by the contest coordinator and communicated in advance through email address and/or phone number supplied during registration.
Scoring Criteria for Individual Presentation
Speech Format – 15 points possible
- Presentation followed a logical order
- Introduction was adequate and drew attention to the topic
- Main discussion was well organized and adequately covered the chosen topic
- Summary was brief and clearly reiterated the key points
Materials and Visual Aids – 15 points possible
- Materials and equipment were carefully selected, neatly arranged, and well organized
- Visual aids were of high quality and easily visible
- Content of the visual aids was pertinent to the topic
Knowledge of Subject Matter – 25 points possible
- Facts and information presented were accurate
- High level of preparation was shown as evidenced by the amount and depth of information provided about the subject
- Approved practices were presented or used
Delivery – 25 points possible
- Presenter was neat and appropriately dressed for the subject of the presentation
- Presenter spoke directly to and looked at the audience/judges and maintained strong eye contact
- Presentation pace was consistent and appropriate; not too fast or too slow
- Presenter displayed enthusiasm while presenting
- Presenter had good voice control and quality
- Words were pronounced correctly, and proper word choice was used
- If notes were used, it was done without detracting from the presentation
- Presenter seemed to choose words at the time they were spoken as opposed to a memorized presentation
Credit and Content – 10 points
- Information was obtained from reputable and/or equine research-based information or sources
- Credit was given to the sources of information if it was appropriate
- Content was appropriately related to the equine industry
Questions – 10 points
- Presenter handled questions easily and with confidence
- Presenter was thoughtful in response and thoroughly answered questions correctly
- Presenter response to questions indicates a deeper knowledge and understanding of the topic presented
Time Limits and Penalties
- Minimum of 9 minutes to maximum of 12 minutes
- 3 points will be deducted from the total score for every minute (or fraction of a minute) under 9 minutes or over 12 minutes.
- References are not to be included in the time limit.
Team Presentation Contest Rules
The subject must pertain to the horse industry. Presentations not appropriately related to the horse industry can be disqualified at the discretion of the judges.
The presentation may be a demonstration or illustrated talk. All references to the term “presentation” in these rules include either demonstration or illustrated talk. A demonstration is defined as a presentation of a step-by-step procedure with an end product or result. An illustrated talk is defined as a presentation of an idea or topic that uses visual aids to convey the message. Both presentation forms are acceptable and will be evaluated equally, although the delivery methods are different as defined above. Both should utilize visual aids to help convey the major points of the presentation and more than one type of visual aid is preferable. Visual aids may include but are not limited to: handouts, posters, props, videos, slides, and computer-generated media (e.g., PowerPoint, websites, etc.). No live animals may be used.
This is a Team Presentation where both participants should have an equal role in the presentation.
Contestants may use notes. However, excessive use of notes may be counted against the contestant. This will be at the discretion of the judges.
A microphone or other public address system will NOT be used during the contest.
Contestants must supply their own props. Two tables and chairs will be provided for the presenter’s use. This provision does not apply to contests conducted virtually.
Contestants must provide all of their own equipment, including projector, etc.
Creative audio-visual aids may be used, but the contestant must be involved in making or designing them.
During the contest, the contestant may introduce themselves by name, club, and presentation topic.
Presentations should be 10 to 15 minutes in length. Three points will be deducted from the total score on each judge’s scorecard for every minute (or fraction of a minute) under 10 minutes or over 15 minutes.
Contestants should cite their major references after the conclusion of their presentation. This will not be counted in the allotted time.
Only the judges may ask questions of the contestants in the contest. Question time will not be counted in the allotted time. Contestants should repeat the question and then answer it.
No coaching from any coach, parent, audience member, or other person during the presentation.
An audience may observe via Zoom. Audience will be muted, and the chat feature will be disabled. If the audience is in the same room as the contestant, they must not interact with the contestant.
Once the individual has started their speech, they may not receive assistance from any coach, parent, audience member, or other person, which includes, but is not limited to: the stroking of any key on a computer or other audio-visual device. This rule applies to assistance with Zoom features, such as screen sharing, and other technical challenges. The penalty for violating this rule is disqualification.
Contestants may have their own presentation recorded by their coach or other designee. No videotaping or photographing of presentations is otherwise allowed during the contest, including cell phone video or audio recording.
Contestant order will be determined by the contest coordinator and communicated in advance through email address and/or phone number supplied during registration.
Scoring Criteria for Team Presentation
Presentation – 15 points possible
- Presentation followed a logical order
- Introduction was adequate and drew attention to the topic
- Main discussion was well organized and adequately covered the chosen topic
- Summary was brief and clearly reiterated the key points
Materials and Visual Aids – 15 points possible
- Materials and equipment were carefully selected, neatly arranged, and well organized
- Visual aids were of high quality and easily visible
- Content of the visual aids was pertinent to the topic
Knowledge of Subject Matter – 25 points possible
- Facts and information presented were accurate
- High level of preparation was shown as evidenced by the amount and depth of information provided about the subject
- Approved practices were presented or used
Delivery – 25 points possible
- Presenters were neat and appropriately dressed for the subject of the presentation
- Presenters spoke directly to and looked at the audience/judges and maintained strong eye contact
- Presentation pace was consistent and appropriate; not too fast or too slow
- Presenters displayed enthusiasm while presenting
- Presenters had good voice control and quality
- Words were pronounced correctly, and proper word choice was used
- If notes were used, it was done without detracting from the presentation
- Presenters seemed to choose words at the time they were spoken as opposed to a memorized presentation
- Presenters worked together as a team and contributed equally to the presentation
Credit and Content – 10 points possible
- Information was obtained from reputable and/or equine research-based information or sources
- Credit was given to the sources of information if it was appropriate
- Content was appropriately related to the equine industry
Questions – 10 points possible
- Minimum of 10 minutes to maximum of 15 minutes
- 3 points will be deducted from the total score for every minute (or fraction of a minute) under 10 minutes or over 15 minutes.
- References are not to be included in the time limit.
Time Limits and Penalties
- Minimum of 10 minutes to maximum of 15 minutes
- 3 points will be deducted from the total score for every minute (or fraction of a minute) under 10 minutes or over 15 minutes.
- References are not to be included in the time limit.