MACON, Ga. – Winners of the Equine Science Placement Proficiency were recognized at the 98th Georgia FFA State Convention held at the Macon Centreplex on April 22-25, 2026. 

Kate Hinger of Clarke Central placed first in the proficiency competition. Placing second was Riley Kirby of Jeff Davis, and Caroline Heaney of Islands received third place. 

Proficiency awards are granted to FFA members who have excelled in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). The Equine Science Placement Proficiency participants acquire career experience from working alongside industry professionals in activities such as horse production, breeding, marketing, showing and other aspects of the equine industry. Programs can also include calf roping, barrel racing, rodeo, racing, riding lessons and therapeutic horseback riding if horses are owned and/or managed by a member.

The Equine Science Placement Proficiency was sponsored at the state level by the Georgia Equine Commission. 

All proficiency winners received a plaque and a cash award. State winners receive $100, as well as $500 travel money to attend the National FFA Convention. Additionally, the advisor of the state winner received $100 cash. Second place winners received $50, and third place winners received $25. 

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, changed its name in 1988 to reflect the growth and diversity of agriculture. There are over 1 Million FFA members nationwide. The Georgia Association has more than 80,000 members, making it the third largest Association in the nation. The FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success, through agricultural education. 

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