Ava Densmore of North Marion High School FFA was named state winner in the 2025 Florida FFA State Agricultural Proficiency Awards for her equine science placement project on June 18 at the 97th Florida FFA State Convention & Expo in Orlando, Fla.

Densmore is from North Marion High School of Marion County Public Schools with chapter advisors Lori Jones and Rebecca Kenney. The equine science placement proficiency recognizes members with outstanding projects that involve working or volunteering for operations that own or manage horses.

“In my project, I groomed, showed, swam and foal-watched Thoroughbreds with the North Marion Equine Program and Bobby Jones Equine to further my knowledge and experience in the racehorse industry,” Densmore said.

“My proudest accomplishment is producing a speech that allowed me to advocate on the importance of the racehorse industry and how proper education about the industry can create a stronger connection between the public and industry professionals,” Densmore said.

Finalist in the category included Addison Leonard of DeLand SR FFA (Volusia), Kylah Wright of Dixie FFA (Dixie), and Oliver Flanagan of Santa Fe FFA (Alachua).

Each submitted a detailed application covering the years of a supervised agricultural experience project in the award area.

Tammy Gantt, associate vice president/member services with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, was among several industry professionals that advised Densmore about key ideas related to the industry and current trends as Densmore fine-tuned her winning local application for the state competition. Finalists received a plaque with Densmore receiving a cash award and advancing to FFA national judging in August. 

Proficiency awards, offered in more than 30 categories, recognize members with outstanding involvement in the agriculture industry. The awards are open to all FFA members and recent graduates. 

Densmore has also been an active volunteer with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association events the last two years including the annual Horse of the Year Gala and golf outings. 

Return to the July 18 issue of Wire to Wire