Northwestern Lehigh High School student Julie Long recently competed in the Pennsylvania State 4-H Horse Show.

Long competed in two events, barrels and cut back at the end of October.

Not only did she compete, she came in first in barrels and second in cut back in the senior rider pony class.

Long is now the reigning Pennsylvania 4-H Barrel Racing Champion in her division.

Getting to the state show was a three-year goal for Long.

Caring for the horses has taught Long to have a strong work ethic, responsibility and determination.

She has come away from the experience learning hard work pays, but also learning how to handle setbacks and defeat and still forge ahead to achieve her goal.