'Back to School Blast' Horse Show in Springfield open to 4-H members nationwide

The first annual "Back to School Blast" is a three day horse show, Aug. 28-30, being held at the Ozark Empire Fair, 3001 N. Grant Springfield, Mo.

This horse show is open to 4-H members nationwide and is a major fundraiser for Greene County 4-H. Proceeds from the show will help fund the Greene County 4-H fair, Greene County 4-H scholarships, contest fees, trips and many other 4-H activities in the community.

"This exciting event is three days of horse show fun and equine education focusing on safety and equine knowledge," said Velynda Cameron, 4-H youth development specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

"Back to School Blast" will include clinics, vendors, the horse show and safety incentives including prizes for wearing a riding helmet in classes where it is not a requirement.

The first 150 entries (due by Aug. 15) will receive a tote bag filled with goodies including a T-shirt with major sponsors listed. There will also be great prizes in every class.

Information sheets, rules and entry forms for the horse show are available in the 4-H section of the Greene County Extension Center Web site. extension.missouri.edu/greene. They also may be obtained by visiting the Greene County Extension Center, 833 Boonville, Springfield, Mo., or by calling the office at (417) 862-9284.

Additional information is also available from event co-organizers Debi Woodward, (417) 861-3039 and Julie Williams, (417) 844-5224.

Horse show partners include the Ozark Empire Fair, Purina, Gordon's Feed, SOMO Agri Supply, PFI Western Stores Inc. and many other members of the community.