Westside 4‑H member Hendrix Higareada brought home two first‑place awards from the Merced County Fair Horse Show, marking a standout day of competition on Saturday, May 30, at the Merced Horsemen’s Arena.

Higareada earned top honors in both the Walk Only Pleasure Class and the Walk Only Trail Class, achievements he described as both exciting and unforgettable.

“At first, I was really nervous, but then I felt amazing,” Higareada said.

Riding Cowboy, a horse owned by Charlie Alamo, Higareada competed with the support of an older student mentor. He said his favorite part of the day was not only winning a trophy but also getting the chance to try something new.

Helping guide him through the event was Sloane Brazil, a Merced County 4‑H ambassador and teen leadership member with Westside 4‑H. Brazil serves as the teen leader for the horse project, working with younger riders to build confidence and experience in the arena.

The 4‑H horse project teaches members far more than riding skills. Participants learn responsibility, patience, teamwork and self‑confidence as they care for and work with their horses. For newer riders, the support of experienced teen leaders can make a meaningful difference.

Higareada’s success at the fair highlights the role of 4‑H in helping local youth challenge themselves, grow through hands‑on learning and celebrate new achievements. With blue ribbons and a trophy to commemorate the day, his time in the arena was a proud moment for both him and the Westside 4‑H community.