Trot on down to the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds for horse show and livestock events before the fair opens.

Pre-fair horse events began June 14 with a junior rodeo in the FoodMaxx Arena. See horsemanship and talent at its finest. Western, English, gymkhana, cutting, and a junior rodeo will all be a part of the fantastic event. River Oaks 4-H club of Oakdale will have several members competing in the horse events.

“Horses are a symbol of the Stanislaus County Fair. The draft horse has been on the fair logo for as long as I can remember.” said Carl Richter, Horse Department Superintendent. “The 4-H, FFA and open horse exhibitors have been a long standing tradition that keeps our community connected with our fair.”

River Oaks members have been practicing quadrille and showmanship weekly in preparation for the fair. Quadrille is a group of four horseback riders who perform synchronized moves set to music.

The 2014 pre-fair horse and cattle show events are shown below.

Sunday, June 22: Cutting at 7:30 a.m. Open cattle classes at 6:30 p.m.

Monday, June 23: 4-H/FFA English at 7:30 a.m. 4-H/FFA single horse cart class at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24: 4-H/FFA horse showmanship at 7:30a.m., followed by 4-H/FFA Western.

Wednesday, June 25: 4-H/FFA gymkhana at 7:30 a.m.

Thursday, June 26: Open gymkhana at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, July 9: Outstanding Exhibitor interviews for registered dairy cattle, goats and meat goats at 10 a.m.

Thursday, July 10: 4-H and FFA dairy showmanship, 4-H and FFA dairy goats at 10 a.m. followed by 4-H and FFA dairy goat showmanship.

The 2014 Stanislaus County Fair opens Friday, July 11 for a 10-day run. Visit the fair’s website for upcoming ticket sale information at www.stancofair.com.