The 2026 NC 4-H Horse Program Communications Contests were held at Enloe High School on July 21. The contests were hosted as part of the statewide NC 4-H Congress.

Having qualified through earning first- and second-place finishes at their District Activity Days, this year’s contestants delivered speeches and presentations highlighting equine science, industry insights, and personal research and experiences. The annual event challenges participants to sharpen public speaking abilities, organize complex topics, and present confidently in front of an audience.

The public speaking and presentation contests serve as a launching pad for future career success, equipping young participants with critical leadership, analytical, and public engagement skills.

Congratulations to all of this year's participants for their outstanding representation of their home counties and clubs.

2026 Horse Communications Contest Results

Public Speaking

8-10

1. Dakota Kovacs, Currituck

14-18

1. Karleigh Meads, Currituck
2. Abigail Poirrier, Currituck

Presentation

8-10

1. Delilah Baker, Wilson
2. Zachary Smoot, Guilford
3. Amelia Milton, Lee
4. Maren Harris, Halifax
5. Raelyn Hyde, Sampson

11-13

1. Maple Kemp, Lee
2. Toot McCauley, Cumberland
3. Layla Terry, Halifax
4. Emori Hotchkiss, Wake

14-18

1. Rebekah Cieslak, Craven
2. Harper Branigan, Granville
3. Sophia Hailsop, Currituck
4. Natalie Sprinkle, Union
5. Oliva Duchesne, Johnston
6. Alyson Taylor, Cumberland

A special thank you to the Dale Earnhardt Foundation for their sponsorship and support of the NC 4-H Horse Program Communications Contests.