Kelsie Middaugh 11, of the Stull Busy beavers 4-H Club, hugs her horse, Maria, before they ride in the English Pleasure part of Saturday's 4-H Horse Show at the Douglas County 4-H Fairgrounds.

Baylie Moon, 12, of the Stull Busy Beavers 4-H Club, holds her reward for her riding effort Saturday at the Douglas County Fair. Baylie won the purple ribbon, the highest award for her class.

Mandy Dray has a six-year relationship with Skip.

“We have quite a bond,” said Mandy, 15. “Sometimes we can get mad at each other, but we resolve it.”

The two – Mandy and her beloved horse – were together Saturday as they competed in the 4-H Horse Show at the Douglas County Fair.

Equine activities at the Douglas County 4-H Fairgrounds continue at 9 a.m. today with the Open Horse Show.

Dozens of horses and exhibitors, including Mandy, are gathering at the fairgrounds this weekend for the chance to show their stuff and maybe win a few ribbons.

“It’s competitive, but it’s more at a local level, rather than at a regional or state level,” said Jeanne Nottingham, co-superintendent for Saturday’s 4-H Horse Show. “Some of them will go to a horse show just about every weekend, and then we have other kids that this may be their only horse show of the year.”

And though some of Saturday’s participants were young, they weren’t necessarily novices.

Mandy got on a horse before she learned to walk.

Kyna Smith, of Baldwin City, also has years of experience under her belt. And she’s only 9.

“It’s really fun,” Kyna said. “I really like horses. They’re about my favorite animal.”

Today’s event is open to everyone. It drew 80 exhibitors last year, and organizers expect a similar turnout this year. The stick horse class, a show favorite, is expected to take place between 11 a.m. and noon in the indoor arena.

“We try to emphasize fun, not so much competitiveness,” said Gretchen Brumm, co-superintendent of the Open Horse Show along with her husband C.B. Brumm. “That’s the big thing I hear – it’s one of the most fun shows of the year.”