GREENVILLE – A new queen of the stables has been crowned. After months of preparation, testing, and anticipation, the title of 2025 Darke County Equine Princess has officially been awarded to Bailey Foster of the Trails and Tails 4-H Club.
The coronation took place in front of a supportive crowd, with the 2024 Equine Princess, Annabelle Billenstein, passing on her crown in a heartfelt ceremony. As the results were read, four finalists stood together, holding hands and anxiously awaiting their fate: Olivia Elliott, Madison Hoying, Chloe Hoying, and Bailey Foster.
The moment grew even more intense as the runner-up was named: Chloe Hoying of the Buckeye Buckaroos 4-H Club. Just seconds later, cheers erupted as Bailey Foster was named the 2025 Equine Princess.
The competition isn’t based on beauty or popularity—this title is earned. Candidates are judged on a combination of their application, interview performance, and Skillathon score. The Skillathon is a comprehensive equine knowledge test that all 4-H horse members must complete to exhibit at the fair. It includes hands-on, written, and oral components designed to assess their understanding of horse care, anatomy, tack, feeds, and more.
Bailey’s hard work clearly paid off. But instead of basking in the glory, she was already looking forward, excitedly asking, “What can I do with my title?” From parades and community events to representing 4-H at regional horse shows, Bailey is ready to saddle up for a year of service, leadership, and inspiration.
Congratulations to all the candidates for their dedication, and to Bailey Foster—the 2025 Darke County Equine Princess!
