by Robin Little

The Licking River Riders 4-H/KMSHA Juvenile Drill Team has continued their 2009 "winning streak", by proudly representing the state of Kentucky in their recent bid for a National 4-H drill team title. The competition was held in Cookeville, Tennessee on July 25th, where they were crowned the 2009 National 4-H Division 1 Drill Team Champions!

On July 1st, the squad was awarded the 2009 Kentucky State 4-H Division 1 Drill Team Championship in Louisville, Kentucky, qualifying them to attend the national competition. The all girl, all gaited horse squad, performed a beautiful 9 minute precision drill team routine. This was the squad’s first ever attempt at a National title, and were very excited and proud to represent the state of Kentucky in such a prestigious event.

While in Cookeville, they also went on to compete in the "Dixie Classic" open drill team competition. They competed against both juvenile and adult squads during this open competition, going on to win 12 total trophies and the title of "overall" champion for the open competition as well.

The squad consists of team members from Montgomery, Menifee, Clark and Bourbon counties and includes: Becky McCoy (captain), Emily Robbins (co-captain), Megan Brewington (co-captain), Sarah Crouch (senior rider), Kelsey Burton Shelby Lowe, Haley Anderson, Taylor Davidson, Dahlia D’Arge, Sofia Fedyna, Meredith Craft, Tessa Skees and Lacy Reed. They are coached by the mother-daughter team of Robin Little and Jenna Ratliff with assistant coach, Kirstie Ratliff.

We are all very proud of our girls and their accomplishments in 2009 and wish them the best of luck in 2010! The Licking River Riders 4-H/KMSHA Juvenile Drill team can be seen on Saturday night at the 2009 KMSHA/SMHA Internation Grand Championship show at the Kentucky Horse Park. Be sure to check the schedule of events.

Posted:  June 28, 2011