Sue Duffy was born and raised in Lansing, MI. Her love for horses started at an early age, and she participated in 4-H with her Quarter Horse gelding throughout her childhood. After graduating from Michigan State University, she headed west. Once she made it to Boise, ID, her passion for horses continued as she owned a horse again and rode during her time there. Following a “midwestern vacation,” Sue and her family returned to the West settling in Washington in 2007.
Shortly thereafter, Sue’s involvement with the Benton Franklin Fair began when she and her daughters entered exhibits in Fine Arts and Photography. Soon, one of her daughters expressed interest in horses, and Sue’s role as a 4-H horse show mom began. Sue has held the responsibility of 4-H/FFA/Grange Horse Superintendent for the past five years. This includes 2020, during which a virtual horse show was held due to the Fair being canceled. Since returning to “normal,” exhibitor participation at the Fair has increased from 21 in 2021 to 50 in 2024. Sue implemented a Cloverbud curriculum last year with three enrollees and anticipates further growth this year.
Sue is grateful for the mentorship of the prior Superintendent, Leota Hallyburton, and the support of the 4-H horse project leaders as the team prepares for the five-day Horse Show at Fair in 2024. She is looking forward to enjoying the Best Week of Summer at the Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo.