Shelbyville, Tennessee · Sunday, November 8, 2009
[SeMissourian.com] Fair ~ 77°F  
High: 76°F ~ Low: 48°F
Horses and horse shows

Spotted horses get sporty at Calsonic Arena (11/06/09)
Gaited horses are back at Calsonic Arena this weekend, only they've left their English saddles and fancy riding habits behind. This weekend features the Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association's Sport Horse championship, where the breed truly gets to prove its versatility. ...
Calsonic Arena crew members are quick change artists (10/16/09)
When Calsonic Arena opened in 1989, 20 years ago, officials from the Celebration and from the arena's benefactor and naming sponsor, Calsonic Manufacturing Corp. (now CalsonicKansei North America), said they hoped it would be not only a place for equestrian competition but also for a wide variety of events to benefit the community...
New cancer charity plans benefit horse show Saturday (10/14/09)
A new foundation has been formed to help local cancer patients, and its concept is different from the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. All money raised through the Bedford Cancer Foundation, formed last month, will directly benefit local cancer patients. Starting with Saturday night's Walking For Cancer Horse Show, the foundation will have two large benefits each year, said Jon' Jenné, board member of the foundation...
Trainer faces difficult times after brain aneurysm (10/14/09)
When Jerry Williams left the hospital, a baby in his mother's arms, it was 38 years before he'd ever have to go to a hospital again. In fact, you might even say the Tennessee walking horse trainer was as healthy as a horse. That changed Sept. 30. "I came home for lunch and I was getting ready to go back to the barn," said Jerry. "I got hot and broke out in a cold sweat, and got a bad headache -- a pain like I've never felt before. I was numb on one side and couldn't move. I yelled for Jamel."...
Trail ride postponed (10/08/09)
A quadruple bypass couldn't stop Raymond Pimental's annual Strolling Jim Trail Ride -- but Mother Nature could. And has. "We're going to have to postpone it for two weeks," said Pimental Wednesday morning. "The field where we park the cars is too wet, and it's supposed to rain tomorrow and a 70 percent chance on Friday."...
Happy trails as Stolling Jim ride continues (10/04/09)
Here's a special notice to the 468 riders who showed up in Wartrace with their horses last year for the 10th annual Strolling Jim Trail Ride: Y'all come back now, y'hear? The popular trail ride is on again, taking place next Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m...
SSHBEA show continues at Calsonic Arena (10/01/09)
The Buzz from the Celebration (09/13/09)
I took Buzz to the Celebration on the last Thursday night of the show. There's nothing like seeing something through the eyes of a child to make you see it brand new for yourself. This was his first horse show, and after the second or third class, he turned to me, puzzled...
Weather holds for Celebration (09/08/09)
It's all over but the clean-up and the countdown to next year, but all in all, it was a memorable Celebration, capped by a memorable World Grand Championship. For the first time in many years, there was little rain and the temperatures stayed pleasantly warm...
Watch It Now wins WGC (09/06/09)
The wind was whipping the flags of states and nations over the Celebration grounds Saturday night -- and the horses were whipping the crowd into a frenzy just below. After 11 days of classes, triumph and heartbreak often riding side by side, it was time to declare the World Grand Champion of the 71st annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration....
Celebration's championship classes commence (09/04/09)
Tennessee Walking Horse exhibitors show all year hoping to ride under the spotlight at The Celebration. On Thursday night, 10 world grand championship classes took to the ring. Owner-Amateur Youth Riders 6-17 on Walking Ponies World Grand Championship contenders went down to the big oval to work for the top prize in the division. ...
For these visitors, the Celebration is a time to get together (09/04/09)
While Tennessee walking horses may be what brings thousands and thousands of visitors to the Celebration, they aren't all the event has to offer. For many of the horse lovers, their and friends and their families, it's all about getting together. "We aren't showing any," said Jim Atchinson, a retired banker, Thursday night. ...
Trade fair continues through Saturday (09/03/09)
Okay, everybody's tired of hearing about how bad the economy is -- so keep reading. Although big-ticket items, such as designer outfits and life-sized horse statues, aren't exactly leaping off the floor at the Celebration's trade show, the smaller items, from jalapeño jelly to jewelry to T-shirts, are moving right along...
Celebration preliminaries close (09/03/09)
Wednesday marked the final night of preliminary classes at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville and that means spectators will be treated to championship classes in the ring for the final three nights of competition. The Wednesday night schedule featured 13 classes highlighted by three sections of Owner/Amateur Riders on Three-Year-Old walking Mares or Geldings...
Good, down-home fun survives at the Celebration (09/03/09)
When I go to the Celebration's Trade Fair in the Calsonic Arena, I always go prepared. I take my camera, my notepad -- and just enough money to buy one Diet Coke. You see, I'm not real good at resisting temptation, at least not when it comes to jewelry, food and, well, stuff...
Did you find all 38 horse names? (09/03/09)
EDITOR'S NOTE: Wednesday, we published the following story and challenged readers to find 38 horse names from the 2009 Celebration program hidden in it. How many did you find? Today, we have the answers highlighted, with their entry numbers. Note that both "Star" and "Star In The Making" are in the program, so those two names overlap....
Bribery alleged; dissastisfied exhibitors complain (09/02/09)
SHOW, the Tennessee walking horse industry's regulating body, suspended exhibitor Clay Mills of Mount Airy, N.C., and said it would seek a five-year suspension and $25,000 fine as the organization investigated bribery allegations. Rumors of bribery and corruption at the Celebration filled walking horse internet message boards and picnic table conversations Tuesday, but were not confirmed until late afternoon....
Too much reality: find the horse names in this short story (09/02/09)
EDITOR'S NOTE: Once again, Times-Gazette City Editor John I. Carney has had a little fun with the variety of horse names reflected in the entries for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. The following short story contains 38 different names from the 2009 Celebration program. Can you find them all? Some are easy, others more difficult. Two of the names overlap. Answers will appear tomorrow....
State appeals court rules for Horse Hub (09/02/09)
NASHVILLE -- The Tennessee Court of Appeals last week upheld a trial court's decision for the woman who runs The Horse Hub in Wheel just east of the Marshall County line. Horse Hub proprietor Bonnie Cady was fined $17,000 in March 2005 by the state Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners for practicing veterinary medicine, including artificial insemination and ultrasound exams...
Missing links: only 12 of 33 stallions show in Saturday class (09/01/09)
As exciting as Saturday night's Celebration was for many -- it was a disappointment as well. Out of the 33 stallions scheduled to show in the split Aged Stallions 15.2 and over classes, only 12 made it to the ring. Those conspicuously missing were crowd favorites Weekend Warrior, Ironworks Tin Man, It's Billy the Kid and many others...
Yum! Optimist donuts are still a-round (08/31/09)
There are only a few things in life that you can be sure of -- death, taxes, and someone claiming the Optimist Club doughnuts don't taste as good as they did last year. "It happens every single year," said Travis Spivey, laughing. Spivey was manning the Optimist booth Thursday night. "Someone always says they don't taste as good, or we've changed the recipe. Nope. Same recipe as always."...
Junior stallions, aged mares highlight Sunday night Celebration program (08/31/09)
The Four-Year-Old Walking Stallions and Aged Mares were tops in the show ring on a brisk Sunday night in Shelbyville at the 71st Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. The Four-Year-Old Walking Stallions (Canter) class is always a class with a lot of talent and this year was no different. Justin Harris captured the blue ribbon with Lined Walkin. Gameworld and Gary Edwards received the reserve honors...
Coach, Rowdy take Stalion Classes (08/30/09)
Out of the 33 stallions signed up to show in the Aged Stalliona 1.2 and over classes -- qualifying classes for the World Grand Championship next Saturday night -- only 12 horses made it to the ring. There were seven in the first class, won by The Coach and John Allan Callaway, and only five in the second, which went to Rowdy Rev and Bill Bobo for the second time in two years...
Classic ride: Old horses find new life in show ring (08/30/09)
Talk about some classic competition! The Tennessee walking horse industry is one of the few in which you will find complete show classes dedicated to the classic horse -- the horse that is 15 years or older. And not only do these senior citizens of the equine set compete against each other in their own Golden Ages class, but they often compete against younger horses -- and win...
Three-year-old stallions step out at Celebration (08/29/09)
Three-Year-Old Stallion classes dominated competition at the 71st Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration on Friday night. The always popular Three-Year-Old Walking Stallions class was split into two divisions. Division A's blue ribbon winner was Folsom Prison Blues with Rodney Dick. Link Webb atop George W. McClintock rode to the Blue Ribbon Circle in Division B...
Teens take the reins of horse show judging (08/28/09)
Don't judge them just because they're teenagers. That's their job -- to judge. On Saturday morning, about 250 middle and high school-aged children will invade the Celebration to practice and pit their walking horse judging skills against each other...
Celebration evening classes get underway (08/28/09)
A pleasant breeze crossed Center Ring opening night performance of the 71st Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration®. Agreeable weather and large classes greeted a boisterous opening night crowd for the 17-class session that featuring 224 entries. Five classes were split due to the high number of entries...
Street Legal's short ride comes to a sudden halt (08/27/09)
His portrait is on the front cover of a section in the Times-Gazette's Souvenir Celebration edition that comes out Friday -- but he won't be competing this year. Or ever again. I'm Street Legal, the winning pony owned by 18-year-old Laura Lester, died Tuesday night of pneumonia, a complication from an unidentified illness. The Souvenir section was printed before the horse's death...
Founding family thrives at Futurity (08/27/09)
If it weren't for a Wartrace man named James T. Brantley and a black stallion named Allan that no one wanted, there probably wouldn't be a Tennessee walking horse today. It was Brantley who recognized the seeds of greatness in the horse and its potential as a foundation sire that led to today's breed...
Futurity results (08/27/09)
Calsonic Arena, Shelbyville Park Pleasure Two & Three Year Old 1 The Red Falcon, owned by Berry Coffey Estate 2 Devious Don, owned by Lisa Anderson 3 I'm a Shady Character, owned by Jeff Heuer 4 Dixie's Revenge, owned by Moore/Foust Farm...
It's show time in Shelbyville as horses arrive for TWHNC (08/26/09)
It's that time again ... The trailers are sprouting up in the fields next to the Calsonic Arena like mushrooms and the lines at the fast food restaurants are getting longer. Strangers have moved into your neighbors' houses and your neighbors are taking their vacations -- elsewhere. At no other time of the year does Shelbyville fill up as it does during the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Trainers, owners, riders, vendors and fans come to visit, bringing their money with them...
Multiple inspections planned for show horses (08/26/09)
While the Celebration brings visitors, horses and cash flow to Bedford County, it often brings controversy as well. In recent years, relations between government inspectors, trainers and Horse Industry Organizations have been tense and entire organizations have had their boards of directors shuffled or even dissolved...
FAST finalizes board of directors (08/26/09)
The Foundation for the Advancement and Support of the Tennessee Walking Show Horse (FAST) has finalized its board with the appointments of Bruce Vaughn, Eugene Ray and David Landrum. Vaughn is a long-time owner and exhibitor of Tennessee walking horses and also serves on the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association Executive Committee. Vaughn is from Valley City, Ohio...
Rising stars shine at Futurity (08/23/09)
When visitors come to the Celebration and see the hundreds of horses parading around the ring -- flat shod and padded, ridden by professionals or amateurs, pulling carts or carrying rider -- they may not realize they've seen many of these horses when they were just colts and fillies. That is, they have if they've ever gone to the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association's National Futurity...
Splits announced for Celebration stallion class (08/12/09)
It reads like a Who's Who in the walking horse world -- the Celebration has just released the names of the aged stallions who will be contending for this year's World Grand Championship. The first Saturday night of the Celebration is typically known as "Stallion Night" with the two divisions of walking stallions, 5 years of age and over, and over 15.2 hands. said Jimmy Burton, spokesman for the event...
Ironwork's Tin Man takes Wartrace blue (08/04/09)
Ironwork's Tin Man had a good year in 2008. The big 17-hand horse -- a polished gray that looks like liquid silver -- won six blues on the show circuit last year in the amateur categories, including the Amateur Show Pleasure World Grand Championship at the Celebration. Is he, or are his owners Grant and Steve Jones, ready to rest on their laurels? Not likely. The 13-year-old stallion won the stake class at the 103rd Wartrace Horse Show Saturday night...
Wartrace prepares for horse show (07/30/09)
With less than a month before the opening of one of the biggest horse show in the world, the town of Wartrace is gearing up for one of the oldest horse shows in Tennessee. The 103rd Wartrace Horse Show is Saturday night at the horse show grounds, just across from the city park...
Signs show support for horse industry (07/24/09)
The Tennessee walking horse industry has take some hard hits in recent years, but many people and businesses have continued to support it. Now, those people and businesses who want to say "Thank you" to the industry that brings an estimated $50 million a year to Middle Tennessee can do so with special yard signs...
SSHBEA Mid-Season Show begins tonight (07/17/09)
The owners of spotted saddle horses like to brag about the versatility of their chosen breed. "They can be your weekday trail riding horse and your weekend show horse," they'll tell you. And they're right. A quick glance at any group of trail riders is going to reveal at least one, if not more, spotted saddle horses in the herd. ...
Celebration judges announced (07/17/09)
Celebration CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows announced that the judging panel for the 71st annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been selected. The group includes Rollie Beard of Lewisburg, Jamie Bradshaw of Union Grove, Ala., Mike Carpenter of Franklin, Jennifer Bingham of Shelbyville, and Sam Sorrell of Flemingsburg, Ky...
Mule and donkey show draws strong participation (07/14/09)
Out West, they call them "mountain canaries" because they surely love to sing. Of course, a donkey's "song" may not fall melodically on a human's ears, but there were planty of concerts being given at the Celebration grounds last weekend during the Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show. Competitors came from across the nation and across the county. They brought huge, Belgian-cross mules and tiny miniature donkeys, and just about anything long-eared that fell in between...
Mules, donkeys, miniature donkeys invade Calsonic Arena (07/09/09)
Those big, gentle mules so well known and well loved in Tennessee aren't the only long-eared critters that are roaming the Celebration grounds this weekend at The Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show. Donkeys of all sizes will be claiming their moment in the spotlight, from the big mammoth donkeys, at about 14 hands, or 56 inches at the withers, and up, to the tiny -- and lovable -- miniature donkeys, measuring under 12 hands, or 36 inches...
SHOW tells public of violations (07/08/09)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration's horse industry organization, SHOW (Sound horses, Honest judging, Objective inspections and Winning fairly) has issued several suspensions lately to owners and trainers as the result of violations at recent shows, said Doyle Meadows, CEO of the Celebration, who said the primary goal was to protect the horses...
Wartrace show steps on (07/08/09)
With more than a century of history behind it, the Wartrace Horse Show is known as one of the oldest in the state. But this year, it almost became known as the show that wasn't. "What began as a shaky start is now full steam ahead," said show manager Roy Ferguson. "The show will go on."...
'What A Horse' seeks city funding (07/08/09)
A supporter of the Celebration told Shelbyville City Council that the recent controversy surrounding soring and inspections of walking horses is having an enormous negative impact on the region's economy. And unless something is done, he said, this situation could get much worse for the county...
State 4-Hers swarm Calsonic for annual horse show (06/26/09)
Anyone who has been in 4-H can tell you the Hs stand for "head, heart, hands and health," but if you ask the hundreds of young people down at the Calsonic Arena right now, there ought to be a fifth H. Horse. The Tennessee 4-H Horse Show is being held on the Celebration grounds, both in the arena and the Champions Arena just behind it. ...
Barbecue lunch to precede annual Liberty horse show (06/18/09)
The Liberty Lions Club is celebrating its 10th anniversary walking horse show Friday -- and it's kicking off the party early. "We're having a luncheon from 11 to 1, serving barbecue to the public for $5 a plate," said Paul Gambill, the show manager. "We're looking forward to a good show."...
Kids on the spot at POA show (06/11/09)
If you're seeing spots in front of your eyes this weekend at Calsonic Arena, it's got nothing to do with the heat -- and everything to do with the ponies. The Tennessee Pony of the Americas show will be this Friday and Saturday, beginning at 8 a.m. each day...
Tensions continue at walking horse inspection area (06/07/09)
Some visitors to the Trainers' Show Friday night saw what is becoming an all-too familiar sight in the walking horse world -- classes with only one or two horses competing. It is a trend owner Ira Kilbern of Kentucky is afraid will destroy the industry...
Trainers up for blue ribbons (06/05/09)
Lisa Baum doesn't have to go far to have a good time. The Shelbyville resident (and wife of veterinarian Jim Baum) took another blue ribbon Thursday night at the Trainers' Show on her gelding Tony Montana, only a few weeks after the pair won big at the Celebration's Spring Fun Show...
Trainers confident of show's success (06/02/09)
More than two months after it was originally supposed to take place, the Walking Horse Trainers' Association show will be held this weekend at Calsonic Arena. The show, first slated for March 19-21, was postponed as the WHTA and the Walking Horse Owners Association considered what to do about their horse industry organization, the National Horse Show Committee. ...
It's hard not to love Tennessee, say the Mortons (05/31/09)
When Wendy Morton looks out the large kitchen window each morning she sees green pastures, rolling hills, a pond, horses, cats, dogs -- and all things nature. It is exactly the window she'd been looking for her whole life. Dream farm Through triumphs and challenges, Wendy and her husband Bryant, both veterinarians, have paved the way to their dream home, nestled in the serene countryside of Flat Creek...
The Coach claims Fun Show blue (05/26/09)
Only three answered the gate call for the last class of the 2009 Spring Fun Show, but they were very strong competitors, according to a news release from the Celebration. Winning the blue ribbon by a unanimous decision was The Coach with John Allan Callaway up for Holland, Kilgore & Barnes of Decatur, Ala., Tuscaloosa, Ala., and Pigeon Forge. Blue Blooded Bandit and Knox Blackburn took the reserve award. The yellow ribbon was awarded to Gold Sky MC and Randy Young for Mike Chandler of Sparta...
Fun Show picks up Friday night (05/24/09)
Another great night of blue skies welcomed visitors to the second session of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration's 39th Annual Spring Fun Show Friday. A good crowd was on hand to watch the sixteen classes make the gate call onto the Celebration Arena track, according to Jimmy Burton, spokesman for TWHNC...
Huff earns first place in Friday's Fun Show (05/24/09)
As the crowd was settling into its seats Friday night, seven young riders answered the gate call in the Owner-Amateur Youth Riders 12 to 17 Years on Walking Mares or Geldings. Receiving the first blue ribbon of the evening was Shes Push In Command JA and Lindsay Hess. The reserve honors in the class went to Summer Brooks on Sweepstakes Pzazz...
Let the Fun begin (05/22/09)
The 39th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show opened Thursday night in the Outdoor Stadium on the Historic Celebration Grounds. The annual festival returned to the place of its birth after nearly 20 years inside Calsonic Arena. Counterfeit Dollar and Bud Seaton opened the show with the presentation of the national colors, and the first blue ribbon of the 2009 Shelbyville walking horse season was presented to Lisa Baum aboard Tony Montana in the Owner-Amateur Riders on Walking Mares or Geldings, 15.2 and Under.. ...
Orphaned foal 'adopted' by new mother (05/22/09)
The third time should have been the charm. Striding at the Ritz, a Tennessee walking horse mare owned by Amanda Winters, lost her first two foals soon after birth before anyone realized there was a medical reason. Similar to human "blue babies," who have blood incompatibilities with their mothers, Ritzy had a condition that made her colostrum -- the all-important first fluids a foal drinks -- incompatible with her own offspring...
All eyes on Spring Fun Show (05/21/09)
During winter training, baseball fans peek over the fences at their favorite teams, trying to decide who's in shape and who isn't; which one of the young rookies called up from the minors will be the season's shining star; and which old pro will find himself sent back down to the minors...
SHOW opts out of Operating Plan, adopts own penalty structure (05/21/09)
Doyle Meadows, CEO of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration and its SHOW organization, announced Wednesday that SHOW has opted out of the 2007-09 Operating Plan. "After weeks of meetings, discussions and input from outside groups, SHOW has made the decision to opt out of the Operating Plan and institute a new penalty structure," he said...
Unique and beautiful feathered horses visit Shelbyville (04/17/09)
If you go to Calsonic Arena today and Saturday to see feathered horses, don't expect to see Pegasus flying around -- they aren't those kinds of feathers. You may, however, find a unicorn. "Everyone says he looks just like a unicorn," said Lisa Warmels, who shows the Gypsy cob, Dalcassian...
Harry named interim coordinator for SHOW (04/10/09)
Celebration CEO Doyle Meadows has named Dr. Mike Harry to the position of Interim Compliance Coordinator for the newly formed horse industry organization (HIO) SHOW. His appointment is effective immediately. SHOW Designated Qualified Persons Coordinator Andy Messick will answer directly to Harry. Meadows will head up SHOW until an overall director as well as an independent board can be appointed...
Celebration takes over NHSC's role (04/01/09)
Less than a month after the walking horse owners and trainers agreed to dissolve the National Horse Show Commission and hand its duties over to the Celebration, the transfer is a done deal. The speed of the turnover surprised many, including Doyle Meadows, CEO of the Celebration, who said the feedback on the entire affair has been positive...
Celebration CEO expects decline in sponsorships (04/01/09)
Across the country -- across the globe -- it's the same. From nonprofit groups to super sports franchises, everyone is feeling the crunch as corporate sponsorship declines. In The New York Times, it was reported that the LPGA Tour is dropping four tournaments because three title sponsors dropped out, and the PGA Tour will lose three title sponsors but no events. ...
UPDATED: Link Webb hospitalized (03/30/09)
FARMINGTON -- Link Webb, president of the Tennessee Walking Horse Trainers' Association and trainer of current World Grand Champion Santana's El Niño, was injured in a one-vehicle crash Friday night and remained hospitalized in Nashville on Monday morning. Lincoln "Link" Eugene Webb, 35, of State Highway 64, proprietor of Webb Stables in Marshall County, was driving home alone after buying tickets to a rodeo for his family, according to his mother-in-law, Elaine Beaty, of Byrdstown....
Trainers' Show rescheduled for June (03/29/09)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Show is back on, and a new horse industry organization (HIO) is set to be activated Wednesday. The Trainers' Show will be June 3 through 6 at the Calsonic Arena, said show chairman Benny Johnson. The show was originally scheduled for March 19-21, but was postponed as trainers and owners debated the future of the National Horse Show Commission, the horse industry organization that sanctioned the event...
Celebration takes the helm; new date sought for Trainers' Show (03/20/09)
The Celebration is one step closer to assuming the HIO duties of the dissolving National Horse Show Committee. "We voted a half an hour ago to proceed forward with this," said Celebration CEO Doyle Meadows at the Noon Rotary Club meeting Thursday, just after the Celebration Board of directors voted to activate SHOW, the Celebration's Horse Industry Organization. Meadows and a committee of directors will meet with the staff of the NHSC on Monday and begin the transition...
'Fall' horse show springs forth (03/20/09)
Don't let the name fool you -- The TQHA Fall Novice Show really is going on this spring weekend -- not this fall. "It was originally in August, and the American Quarter Horse Association won't let you change the name of the show," said Barbara Fisher, coordinator of the event...
NHSC dissolves in favor of SHOW (03/18/09)
The National Horse Show Commission may soon be no more. Rachel Reed, secretary and treasurer for the organization, confirmed Tuesday that the 8-member NHSC board voted Monday to dissolve the organization and to turn its assets and responsibilities over to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration's Horse Industry Organization, SHOW (Sound horses, Honest judging, Objective inspections, Winning fairly)...
Trainers recommend that NHSC dissolve HIO; Trainers' Show postponed (03/10/09)
The crowd outside Walking Horse Trainers' Association's building Monday was there for a good reason. In an industry that has seen more than its share of conflict and criticism, more controversy is blooming. The WHTA has recommended that the National Horse Show Commission dissolve its Horse Industry Organization and turn its duties over to SHOW (Sound horses, Honest judging, Objective inspections, Winning fairly), the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration's HIO...
Cuddly alpacas return to Shelbyville (03/05/09)
The alpacas are coming. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, these sleepy-eyed South American animals with their Mona Lisa smiles will be taking over Calsonic Arena for the eighth annual Southern Select Alpaca Show. "We have folks come from all over," said Kay Kemp of Stoney Ridge Farm, located on the edge of Bedford County near Petersburg. ...
NHSC reports fewer violations in 2008 (03/02/09)
Walking Horse Advocates recently announced the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) is moving forward with its commitment to address and correct the problems that have plagued horse training and exhibitions in the past, according to a press release from the organization...
Trainers score high in WHTA fundraiser (02/23/09)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Association knows how to put the "fun" in "fundraiser." At Friday night's "February Madness" basketball games, they filled the gym at Shelbyville Recreation Center with the sounds of hoops and gym shoes, laughter, and lots and lots of people...
Kentucky may mandate horse inspections (02/23/09)
LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) -- A Kentucky legislator wants to stiffen penalties for people who injure walking horses to exaggerate the breed's gait in competitions. Sen. Tom Buford, R-Nicholasville, also wants to put inspections under the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and require state inspectors at all events...
Forget the horses; WHTA has hoops (02/19/09)
Here are the four H's of the walking horse world: horses, halters, hay, and hoops. Hoops? Hoops -- as in basketball. At 6 p.m. Friday, four teams of walking horse trainers, members of the Walking Horse Trainers Association, will be battling for bragging rights that have nothing to do with blue ribbons, Celebrations or, well, horses...
World-class Friesian horse coming to Shelbyville (01/27/09)
Everybody loves to get souvenirs when they travel to those far off places. When you go to the Netherlands, you can guess what kind of mementos are available in the land of Hans Brinker and tulips. But when Keith Johnson went earlier this month, he bought something besides flower bulbs, silver skates, tiny windmills or wooden shoes...
Rowdy Rev's back for another try (01/14/09)
In 2008, they won the Trainers' Show. They won the Spring Fun Show. But for the third year in a row, the elusive Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Championship eluded Rowdy Rev and Bill Bobo. It was the big sorrel's last chance for the industry's highest honor -- or was it?...
Celebration to step up drug tests (12/19/08)
Besides having their hooves and hocks palpitated for signs of scarring, their fetlocks swabbed for chemical agents, and their gaits studied for signs of abuse, Tennessee walking horses will be facing another sort of test in coming years. The random drug tests taken at the last two Celebrations were just the groundwork for another way to fight the war on soring...
Mule, donkey show to bestow national titles (12/19/08)
One of America's leading mule and donkey shows has gained a little more prestige. Celebration CEO Doyle Meadows announced that the Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show has been selected to host the National Miniature Donkey Association National Championship Show again in 2009 and to also play host to the inaugural North American Saddle Mule Association National Championship Show next summer...
Longtime DQP Messick ready to retire (12/15/08)
While Lonnie Messick was laid up with a bum knee earlier this year, he had a lot of time to think. "I got to thinking about it was time to go out and have some fun," said the executive vice president and director of animal welfare/DQP services for the National Horse Show Commission...
NHSC: Fewer violations found at shows (12/15/08)
NASHVILLE -- As a sign of ongoing progress, the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) reports a decrease in the number of violations at sanctioned Tennessee walking horse shows through the third quarter of 2008. At the end of September, 44,335 horses at 231 shows had been inspected with 433 violations charged. Through the same period in 2007, 43,039 horses at 218 shows accumulated 458 violations...
Celebration judge, owner sanctioned (12/12/08)
Polygraph tests by the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration revealed that one of the judges from the 2008 show had "an inappropriate contact" with a walking horse owner from his hometown, according to a press release from the Celebration. Nathan Clark, of Arab, Ala., was a judge at this year's Celebration. ...
El Niño named horse of year (12/10/08)
Only a few months after claiming the World Grand Championship at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, Santana's El Niño has another honor to add to his list. The small black stallion was named Horse of the Year Saturday at the Walking Horse Trainers' Association annual banquet...
Derickson voted youth 'Member of the Year' (12/10/08)
The youth of the Trainers' Association received their share of honors Saturday at the Walking Horse Trainers' Association annual banquet. Nine-year-old Thomas Derickson was voted "Member of the Year" by his peers on the Youth Council. A fourth-grader at Cascade, he has been riding in competition since he was 4 and has been on the Youth Council since he was 5...
Fun Show returns to outdoor arena (12/08/08)
The Spring Fun Show will return to its original venue, the outdoor arena on the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds, in 2009 after having been held in nearby Calsonic Arena for 18 years. The 39th annual Fun Show will begin its three-night run on May 21, 2009. The event will take place, rain or shine, in the outdoor arena...
Trainers' show will stay at Calsonic Arena (12/08/08)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Association has extended its agreement to hold the annual National Walking Horse Trainers' Show in Calsonic Arena, rejecting proposals to move the event elsewhere. WHTA and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced the renewal, which has a term of 10 years, over the weekend...
Celebration brings Sands back to mike (12/07/08)
Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration CEO Doyle Meadows confirmed over the weekend that former Celebration show ring announcer Bobby Sands will return to the center ring microphone for the Spring Fun Show and The Celebration in 2009. Sands announced The Celebration from 1984 through 1997, and was inducted into the Celebration Hall of Fame in 1999. He has announced numerous other walking horse shows...
Celebration's 'voice,' others let go (11/13/08)
For eight years now, Chip Walters has been the "Voice of the Celebration," but that voice has been silenced. Walters, who is also the director of public relations and media affairs, and four grounds and maintenance workers were laid off from their positions earlier this week as Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Executive Director Dr. Doyle Meadows prepares the organization for tough economic times...
Seriously burned horse fights for survival (10/02/08)
A spotted saddle horse that suffered third degree burns on 60 percent of her body is being treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. "This will help rebuild cells and the blood circulation to the burned areas," said the horse's owner, Dorothy Thorpe. "They are hoping she will be ready for skin grafts in a month or so."...
Webb, champion El Nino begin fall tour (09/30/08)
Current World Grand Champion Tennessee walking horse Santana's El Nino continued his fall tour Monday by making a stop at Thomas Intermediate School. "I don't think many of you realize just how much the horses impact our community," Dee McCullough, principal, told the fourth and fifth grade students as they looked in awe at the black stallion. "This is Santana's El Nino; and he recently won the Super Bowl of all horse shows."...
Spotting a saddle horse: It's in the colors (09/30/08)
Is a spot by any other name still a spot? Not in the spotted saddle horse world, it isn't. Although one of the appeals of the breed is the wide variety of markings, even those markings have recognizable patterns, each with its own name. To be recognized as a spotted horse, the animal must have white on it above the hocks, and not just facial markings. ...
McKeehans living the dream at Florida farm (09/29/08)
Johnny and Heather McKeehan have been showing at the Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association Fall Show for the past ten years, and in that time have garnered a lot of success. They hail from Spotted Haven Farm, in Hudson, Fla., about two hours west of Ocala and an hour north of Tampa. They make the trip to Shelbyville for this show every year...
Spots, color mark spotted saddle horse breed (09/29/08)
Right here in the middle of horse country, there is a type of horse that might leave even the most dedicated horse enthusiasts puzzled. No, it's not a Tennessee Walking horse -- entirely. It's a spotted saddle horse. Spotted saddle horses, gaited horses, are a breed-registered type of horse, but color -- and spots -- definitely matter...
USDA: Nearly all Celebration entries in compliance (09/25/08)
When the USDA issues press releases about the Tennessee Walking Horse industry, the news hasn't always been positive. Ever since the Horse Protection Act was passed more than 35 years ago, the agency has overseen aspects of the industry to stop the practice of soring horses...
Andalusians to prance into town (09/18/08)
There were lots of reasons for Lynnville's Ron Hall to get involved with Andalusian horses, including the five he's bringing to the Open Andalusian/Lusitano Regional Championship at Calsonic Arena this weekend. "They're smart and gentle and easy to work with," said the owner of Celtic Cross Andalusians, then laughed. "And I was tired of getting hurt."...
Celebration to host equine Ike refugees (09/14/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will make stables available to equines displaced by Hurricane Ike, according to a press release from the organization. "We have been in contact with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to let them know we are available as a point of refuge," said Celebration CEO Doyle Meadows. "It's important for horse owners to know there's somewhere to turn at a time like this."...
Civic clubs assess Celebration business (09/09/08)
The weather at this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration did more than create mud puddles and contribute to a few colds. Because rain kept visitors away last month, many of the civic groups operating concession stands will have a slightly reduced budget to work with this year....
Meadows reflects on first Celebration (09/04/08)
As the 70th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration came to a close last Saturday night, that meant one thing for Dr. Doyle Meadows, Celebration CEO, and his staff, come Sunday morning. Exhale ... and breathe. "Saturday night was so much fun for me," said Meadows. "I was able to sit back and relax. I knew we were going to have a World Grand Champion."...
Santana's El Niño named World Grand Champion (08/31/08)
Being an overwhelming crowd favorite does not always indicate the judges feel the same way. Friday night, The Coach was given the Four-Year -Old championship with a unanimous decision, over crowd favorites Ozone Cut Above All and Victoria's Secret. On Saturday night, the score cards clashed with the noise level that followed the passage of favorites Rowdy Rev and Jose's Intimidator....
Jeff Green named Trainer of the Year (08/30/08)
Some things just run in families -- red hair, blue eyes, Trainer of the Year Awards ... OK, maybe winning one of the industry's top honors isn't exactly genetic, but for the second year in a row, a Shelbyville Green has won. This year, it was Jeff Green, brother of the 2007 Trainer of the Year Charlie Green....
Abee suspended (08/29/08)
Following a verbal confrontation with a Celebration staff member, the Conduct Committee of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has suspended all rights and privileges granted to Wayne Abee indefinitely for a conduct violation, according to a Celebration news release. The suspension takes effect immediately and Abee may apply for reinstatement after Dec. 31 for the purpose of reviewing his conduct...
Speculation on next WGC heating up (08/29/08)
The entries don't close until noon today, so the question is still hovering in the air -- who will show in the World Grand Championship class Saturday night? Is Rowdy ready to Rev his engines? Is José in Intimidator mode? Will Missed the Boat make this launch? Will General's Show Stopper stop the show?...
Naples Ritz, Gray claim Three-Year-Old crown (08/29/08)
WHBEA National Futurity Three-Year-Old Stallion champion, Naples Ritz and Tim Gray, riding for William B. Johnson of Atlanta, Ga., claimed the championship honors in the Three-Year-Old World Grand Championship division Thursday night at the Celebration...
Twins foals steal show (08/29/08)
If it had been a popularity contest, the entry from Harmony Walkers in Andalusia, Ala., would have won that class, hands down. It's hard to ignore a couple of thousand people saying, "Aaaawwww!" at the same time. The reason -- When the mare Perfect Cut Jewel was led into the Celebration ring for the mare and foal class Wednesday night, she was followed by not one, but two foals, little chestnut twins only a few months old...
Mounted shooter aims for the top (08/28/08)
A Colorado lawman, complete with a cowboy hat and a real gun, swaggers into the Champions Arena on a spotted horse. Faster'n you can say "John Wayne rules," she's galloped across the dirt and fired that gun, hitting every target with a loud bang. She?...
Friesians trot into big ring (08/28/08)
Seeing a rider on a big black horse on the Celebration grounds is hardly unusual -- but this horse was. Instead of the familiar running walk, this 3-year-old gelding was floating along in an extended trot called a passat -- and everybody knows walking horses don't trot!...
Final night of preliminaries in the books (08/28/08)
Wednesday marked the final night of preliminary classes at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, and that means championship classes will fill the ring for the final three nights of competition. The Wednesday night schedule featured 12 classes, highlighted by three sections of Owner/Amateur Riders on Three-Year-Old Walking Mares or Geldings; Aged Geldings; Fine Harness; and Mare and Foal. The rain of the previous two nights gave way to drier, though still cloudy, conditions...
Celebration begins march toward final night (08/27/08)
With championship classes just two days away, the final preliminary classes of the 70th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration are being decided. On Tuesday night, fans were greeted with a 13-class schedule and periods of misting rain. The track conditions were still good, even though there had been just over four inches of rainfall in the previous 24 hours...
Rain can be trouble or blessing for horses (08/27/08)
By the time the Celebration started Tuesday evening, the day-long rain had dwindled to the occasional sprinkle, but the storm's evidence was everywhere-- especially on the gray track. Even after being scraped with a road grader, ribbons of water collected around the center ring. Would it make a difference in the horses' performances?...
Firefighters protect Celebration grounds (08/27/08)
Uniforms are a common sight on the Celebration grounds, whether it's the Boy Scouts carrying in the giant American flag or the Bedford County deputies providing assistance to the Celebration security staff. State troopers, city police and emergency medical service providers are all on hand -- as is the Shelbyville Fire Department...
Stallions step out at Celebration (08/26/08)
The Two-Year-Old Stallions class at the Celebration has become so popular and full of entries that it has to be split each year. The young horses, in their first year under saddle, have always drawn attention. That's no different this year at the 70th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, as the class was split into three different divisions...
Tuesday night Celebration will go on, says Meadows (08/26/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration plans to hold its Tuesday night performance as scheduled, at 7 p.m. While the Grounds have received a substantial amount of rainfall over the past 24 hours, the condition of the track has remained good for the continuation of the competition....
Inspections up, disqualifications few at show (08/25/08)
Despite stepped-up USDA inspections at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration this year, numbers of disqualifications have been low, according to Lonnie Messick, executive vice president of the National Horse Show Commission, which sanctions the event...
Aged Stallion classes thrill Celebration crowd (08/25/08)
The Aged Stallion classes, featuring many of the top contenders for the Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Championship, took to the Celebration oval on Saturday night in Shelbyville at the 70th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. José's Intimidator and Jamie Bradshaw won over the crowd and the judges earning the A division title in Walking Stallions, Five Years and Over, Over 15.2 (Canter). Link Webb and Santana's El Niño took a second place finish...
Flag horse carries colors with pride (08/24/08)
Dozens of horses carry red, white and blue colors out of the Celebration ring every night, ribbons fluttering from their bridles. But only one horse carries the red, white and blue into the ring every single night, and that is Counterfeit Dollar, ridden by World Grand Champion trainer and rider Bud Seaton...
TWHNC: Rowdy Rev wins "B" division of stallion class (08/24/08)
Rowdy Rev, Bill Bobo up for Bill Harlin of Franklin, won the "B" division of Walking Stallions, Five Years and Over, Over 15.2, to conclude Saturday night's Celebration performance. Reserve honors went to Private Charter, Knox Blackburn up for Eva Eddleman of Chattanooga, with Steve Hankins riding Moab to a third place finish for Della Gaye Compton of North Tazewell, Va...
TWHNC: José's Intimidator wins "A" division of stallion class (08/24/08)
José's Intimidator, Jamie Bradshaw up, won the "A" division of Walking Stallions, Five Years and Over, Over 15.2 (Canter) for Randall Ferguson of Union Grove, Ala. The two divisions of the class are a preliminary to the World Grand Championship. Reserve honors went to Santana's El Niño, Link Webb up for Michael and Ann Jones of Lafayette, Ga., while the third place went to Gen On The Run, Justin Harris up for Michael Hart of Corbin, Ky., and Beech Grove...
TWHNC: Devious Don wins Yearling WGC (08/24/08)
Devious Don won the Walking Yearling World Grand Championship at Saturday night's Celebration. The horse was handled by Chris Richards and owned by Lisa Bowman Anderson of Greeneville.
Walkers make 'perfect' police horses (08/22/08)
As the horses come into the Celebration ring, there's almost a celebrity aura about them -- a look-but-don't-touch sort of awe. Standing calmly near the exhibitors' entrance on the north end are two more approachable fellows, Henry and Storm. Not only can you walk up and pet the big chestnut geldings, they'd be disappointed if you didn't -- and so would their riders...
Governor: 'Tremendous strides' made (08/21/08)
If anyone noticed the cluster of "suits" traveling around the mezzanine of the Calsonic Arena during the early part of the Futurity Wednesday night, they didn't have to wonder what it was all about for very long. Gov. Phil Bredesen stopped and visited with dozens of show spectators, vendors and staff as he and his entourage made their way around the concourse and down to the center ring...
Back to the Futurity: Competition opens tonight (08/20/08)
There are no crystal balls in the horse world -- but the Futurity comes pretty close. Year after year, horses are nominated and shown at the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association's show, from the time they are weanlings until they are 3-year-olds...
Visitors may notice changes (08/20/08)
The 70th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration began with morning classes today; evening Celebration classes will begin Thursday night in the main outdoor arena. The show has a strong 4,222 pre-entries this year; total entries are expected to rise to over 4,500 once qualifying horses have entered their respective championship classes. ...
Two days and ticking: Celebration nears (08/18/08)
Each year, nearly a quarter-million fans will view 11 days and nights of competition among thousands of entries, ending on the Saturday night before Labor Day when the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse is crowned. It's a spectacle like no other, and it starts Wednesday...
CEO promotes Celebration at Woman's Club (08/17/08)
Celebration CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows stuck to the theme of "lighten up" Wednesday when he presented a cheerful program to the Shelbyville Woman's Club. Meadows said he was having trouble sleeping prior to being named CEO. His wife, Gloria, asked one night, "What's the matter, Doyle, are you scared you aren't going to get that job?"...
Celebration inspection security plan in place (08/15/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced earlier this week the continuation of an overall plan designed to ensure the health and safety of the animals and people on site during the 2008 world championship horse show. The security tenets of the plan will remain the same as 2007...
Celebration continues plans to ensure sound horses (08/12/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration remains committed to having sound, clean horses in the show ring and will keep in place several measures with the health and safety of the animals and participants as well as the integrity of the inspection process in mind...
Celebration stallion class splits listed (08/11/08)
The first Saturday night of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is typically known as "stallion night" because it ends with the Walking Stallions, Five Years and Over, class, generally considered the key preliminary to the World Grand Championship...
Harry named TWHNC's official veterinarian (08/11/08)
he Celebration takes great pride in providing the best care to the stars of its show … the horses, according to spokesperson Chip Walters. With that in mind, Walters said in an official statement issued Friday, The Celebration has announced that Dr. Mike Harry will be the official veterinarian of the 70th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration...
Wartrace show termed 'success' (08/04/08)
The turnout for the Wartrace Horse Show was lighter than it has been in previous years, both in crowd attendance and horses, but there were several groups who counted it a success. "I thought it was excellent. We had good crowd support," said Nancy Edwards, who helped coordinate the annual event. "We had good, very high quality entries. We're very pleased."...
Davis released from Celebration judging panel (08/01/08)
Celebration CEO Doyle Meadows announced Thursday that Jennifer Davis has been released from the judging panel for the 70th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Her release comes on the heels of a violation of the National Horse Show Commission rule that does not allow horses to be shown in front of a judge who has shown that horse within the previous 30 days...
Celebration time approaches (07/31/08)
The 70th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will take place Aug. 20-30 in Shelbyville. The Times-Gazette's annual Celebration souvenir edition was included in our Aug. 22 issue and can be found in designated boxes on the Celebration grounds....
Wartrace Horse Show shaping up well (07/31/08)
For more than a century now, the area's finest saddle horses have shown their stuff in Wartrace. It's a small town, but a big show and there will be hundreds of visitors on hand Saturday to see them work. Roy Ferguson Jr., the former volunteer fire chief for Wartrace, stayed on as the show's chairman...
Horses, cars and music (07/30/08)
Weekend activities for 7/31-8/1
Show judge still riding strong at 66 (07/21/08)
Laura Brandon would rather ride a horse than a bike -- but then, she's been riding Tennessee walking horses all her life, as well as showing them and judging them. "I ride the bicycle so I can ride the horse," said the 66-year-old woman. Although she and her husband, retired trainer Wallace Brandon, live in Franklin, they spend lots of time in Shelbyville. ...
Celebration judges announced (07/16/08)
The judging panel for the 70th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been selected. The panel consists of: The group includes a mix of veterans of the world championship show and two of the top young judges in the industry. Beard, Hankins and Howell have all been part of Celebration judging panels in the past, while Clark and Davis will be making their first appearance, although both have judged the Spring Fun Show...
Mule, Donkey Show termed a success (07/15/08)
The 17th Annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show came to a close late Saturday night with a group of tired, but happy, exhibitors heading back to their homes across the country. The latest installment of this midsummer classic on the Celebration Grounds can be declared a success by almost all measures, according to show officials. Entries this year numbered 1,233, with approximately 400 different animals competing...
Parade to kick off mule, donkey show (07/08/08)
Forget horsepower -- mule power will be hitting the Shelbyville streets Wednesday night and everyone is invited to come out and see. The great Celebration Mule & Donkey show is this weekend at the Celebration grounds, and something new has been added to this year's event...
Second set of twin foals born in Bedford (07/02/08)
What are the odds? According to local veterinarian Dr. Monty McInturff, "Twin foals that survive are very, very rare." And yet, almost a month to the day after the mare owned by Christy Swaze and her daughter, Evelyn Swaze, gave birth to twins, another set has been born in Bedford County...
State 4-Hers gather for championship horse show (06/25/08)
From junior high to senior high, from Memphis to Knoxville, they are descending upon Calsonic Arena this weekend. The Tennessee State 4-H Horse Championships are taking place today through Saturday and enthusiasts of all breeds and disciplines can find something they like at the show -- and it's all free...
Move over, horses, the mules are marching in (06/23/08)
As mules begin their trek into horse country for the 17th annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show July 10-12, show management is hoping spectators will come as well. "We have really focused on driving attendance this year," said Chip Walters, public relations director of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the organization that sponsors the mule show...
Wartrace will sponsor stakes class (06/18/08)
Wartrace Board of Mayor and Alderman agreed to once again sponsor the stakes class in the Wartrace Horse Show this year for $1,000. "They've been struggling a little bit because of the situation in the horse industry," said Mayor Don Gallagher at the Tuesday meeting, referring to the 2006 walking horse season, when many horses failed to pass inspections...
Walking Horse group steps up fund-raising (06/07/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Foundation, a non-profit organization that was reactivated in February to provide funding to promote the breed, has a newly-elected board of directors and newly-constructed web site. Though the Foundation is independent of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA), several of its board members also serve on the executive committee of TWHBEA. The Foundation's intent is to assist TWHBEA through its fundraising efforts...
Waterfall Farms buys WGC contender (05/30/08)
World Grand Champion Walking Horse contender The Titan will be moving into the amateur ranks after Waterfall Farms recently purchased the horse from Neal Holland, Bob Kilgore and Joe Martin. And he has a new name. "Mr. Johnson has a horse named The Titleist already, which sounds similar to The Titan," said David Williams of Waterfall Farms. "With that in mind, we are going to rename him Watch It Now. The initials are W.I.N. Now, if that's not pressure to win, I don't know what is."...
Rare twin foals born to locally-owned horse (05/29/08)
A horse owned by a Shelbyville woman recently beat the odds when she gave birth to a healthy set of twin foals. "Twin foals that survive are very, very rare ... I think it is about a one in 10,000 chance that both will survive," said Dr. Monty McInturff, the veterinarian from the Tennessee Equine Hospital who delivered the twins. "I have seen one set of twins prior to this to be born healthy and survive."...
Rowdy Rev repeats Fun Show win (05/27/08)
The stake class Saturday at the 38th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show was "spectacular" and had enthusiastic crowd support, according to Celebration officials. Only five entered the gate, but they were strong competitors. Rowdy Rev and Bill Bobo, for Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin, won the blue ribbon for the second consecutive year, walking home with the top honors in the Stallions Five Years and Over, 15.2 & Over (Canter) class, a traditional showcase for some of the horses who will compete for the World Grand Championship at summer's end.. ...
Horses, fun bring teens together (05/24/08)
From toddlers to teens, they roam the alleys between the stables and haunt the concessions stands. They come from different parts of the country -- even different parts of the world -- but they all seem to know each other....
Friends find fun at show (05/23/08)
For most people at the Spring Fun Show Thursday night, it was just that -- fun. Friends from all over the country greeted each other in the lanes behind the Calsonic Arena and around the stables, in that No Man's Land where horses always have the right of way...
Celebration amps up for Fun Show (05/20/08)
The stables are empty, the parking lot is deserted, but there's no doubt things are gearing up for the 38th annual International Spring Fun Show at Calsonic Arena this weekend. "We've got to proofread the trophies, get the ribbons sorted," said Elaine Mann in the Celebration office. "We're gonna have a show!"...
Head of breeders' group sees better days ahead (05/07/08)
From a champion-less Celebration to costly lawsuits and bad press, the last few years have been hard on the Walking Horse industry, including its oldest organization, the international Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association. Stan Butt, the new TWHBEA executive director, has every intention of turning those hard times around -- and has already begun to do so...
New TWHBEA director understands rural lifestyle (05/07/08)
Born and raised in Portland, Tenn., Stan Butt is familiar with the rural life. The new executive director for the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association not only lived around an agricultural lifestyle, he came to write about it...
Minature horse show here (04/25/08)
TWHBEA names executive director (04/22/08)
Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) announced Sunday that Stan Butt has been named as executive director. Butt has been serving as interim executive director since December. "Stan has done an outstanding job of helping restore financial accountability and fiscal responsibility to our Association," said Mike Inman, TWHBEA vice president for administrative, fiscal and audit matters, who chairs the group's personnel committee. ...
New roof on Blue Ribbon Circle (04/18/08)
Horse country delights tour group (04/17/08)
A Vermont-based tour company made a stop in the land of walking horses Tuesday as part of an Elderhostel Tour that included tourists from all over the country. Elderhostel is a non-profit organization that offers in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning experiences and adventures in all 50 states for folks over 60. ...
Judges named for Fun Show (04/17/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced its judging panel for the 38th annual Spring Fun Show on Tuesday. Gene "Smokey" Carswell of Morehead, Ky., Jennifer Bingham Davis of Shelbyville and Mike McCormick of Shelbyville have been selected...
Rowdy Rev rides for blue (04/08/08)
Will the third time be the charm for Bill Bobo and Rowdy Rev? The Shelbyville trainer rode the big, 7-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse stallion to top honors in the recent Walking Horse Trainers Association show, held over Easter weekend at Calsonic Arena. Considered the kick-off show for the season, winners catch the public eye early and try to keep that attention going strong through The Celebration...
New Celebration CEO hopes to involve youth (03/26/08)
Doyle Meadows, new CEO of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, spoke to an enthusiastic group of breakfast Rotarians bright and early this morning at Richard's Cafeteria. "It is such a pleasure to be here," said Meadows, a native of Texas. "The Celebration is the garden of our community chest, and I appreciate that and I appreciate [breakfast Rotarians] ... you are also part of the community chest."...
Trainers' show kicks off season (03/22/08)
Celebration CEO hits the ground running (03/19/08)
Monday was the first official day on the job for Dr. Doyle Meadows, the new chief executive officer of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, and as the horse show season begins Meadows expects doesn't expect much downtime his first week...
Trainers' show opens Wednesday (03/18/08)
The 2008 horse show season kicks off Wednesday night at Calsonic Arena as the 40th Annual National Walking Horse Trainers' Show opens for its four-night run. The event, sponsored by the Walking Horse Trainers Association, is considered one of the top early-season shows in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry...
State honors World Grand Champion (03/17/08)
State Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens recently honored 2007 Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion owners Lee Wall and Mike McGartland and trainer Jimmy McConnell. Givens recognized Wall, McGarland and McConnell during a luncheon of industry leaders and supporters at the Ellington Agricultural Center. Givens represented Gov. Phil Bredesen at the event, which has become a tradition to recognize the contributions of the Walking Horse industry to the state...
Western Park Pleasure classes restored (03/12/08)
Western Park Pleasure classes have been restored to the schedule at the 2008 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration following discussions with exhibitors and trainers. After researching the past six years and seeing a dramatic decline in entries in that division, a total of four Western Park Pleasure classes were deleted from the initial 2008 class schedule. ...
Little joins TWHNC Hall of Fame (03/03/08)
Bailey Little of Shelbyville was among 13 new members inducted into the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Hall of Fame during a Feb. 23 dinner at Calsonic Arena on the Celebration grounds. The hall recognizes both horse industry professionals and others who support the operation of the annual show...
Celebration rentals being sought (02/29/08)
Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce officials are already getting inquiries from horse show visitors about renting homes during the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in August. One Chamber staff member said the early inquiries are a sign that interest in the program may be strong this year. Although the deadline for listing property is July 25, applying now may give homeowners a chance to work out an arrangement much sooner...
Futurity returns to TWHNC fold (02/26/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association has reached an agreement re-affiliating its annual Futurity with the Celebration. The two events were not affiliated during 2007, after many years of joint operation. The new agreement will allow the Futurity to use the Celebration's judging panel and allow Futurity classes to once again function as preliminary classes for the 2008 Celebration...
Celebraton shows affiliate with NHSC (02/22/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced that its 70th world championship horse show and the 38th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show will be affiliated with the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC). The Celebration will select its judging panel for both shows from the NHSC's pool of judges. The NHSC will also provide DQPs (Designated Qualified Persons) to inspect all entries at each of the events...
Meadows takes Celebration's reins (02/20/08)
Pat Marsh, chairman of the search committee for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, announced the appointment of Doyle Meadows as its new chief executive officer this week. "After an extensive selection process in which we interviewed many exceptional candidates, I am pleased to announce the unanimous decision of the Board of the Celebration to select Dr. ...
Top 20, for the 20th time (02/16/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been named a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society. It marks the 20th time in the last 21 years that The Celebration has been listed as a Top 20 Event. "We appreciate this honor very much," said Celebration Interim CEO Virgil Johnson. "We were put on the list for the very first time in 1988 and it has been our goal to continue to work extremely hard to earn that honor again each and every year."...
TWH museum posts big numbers in 2007 (02/13/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Museum in Lynchburg posted strong attendance numbers for 2007, with 12,180 visitors stopping by. A joint venture of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors Association and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the museum is open year round and chronicles the history of the breed and its world championship show...
Celebration holds prices for third year (02/07/08)
Prices for the 2008 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will remain the same for the third consecutive year, following recent action by the Celebration board of directors. "We feel like there were some great strides made in our industry during 2007," said board chairman David L. Howard. "After the events of 2006, The Celebration and our entire industry had to work hard to regain the public trust. That work is ongoing."...
TWHNC is animal evac site (01/28/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Grounds will be an emergency evacuation site for large animals, according to an agreement reached between the world championship horse show and Bedford County government. The request for the agreement originated with the Law Enforcement Committee of the Bedford County Commission and included input from Bedford County Animal Control, Bedford County Emergency Management Agency, Shelbyville-Bedford County Humane Association, the University of Tennessee Extension Service, and The Celebration.. ...
Celebration gives to 'Moving Wall' (01/24/08)
The Moving Wall, the half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., is scheduled to be in Shelbyville from Oct. 30-Nov. 3. It will be open to the public at Riverwalk Park behind the Fly Arts Center, home of the Shelbyville-Bedford County History Museum...
Lone Star Rodeo returns Feb. 2 (01/22/08)
Lone Star World Championship Rodeo, a perennial favorite at Calsonic Arena, will make its annual Shelbyville stop 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2, with show time at 7:30 p.m. Billed as "the largest one-day rodeo in Tennessee," the event will include sanctioned competition in bareback bronc riding, calf roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, cowgirls' barrel racing, team roping and brahma bull riding...
TWHNC holds annual meeting (01/17/08)
The annual meeting of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Association was held Tuesday in the Blue Ribbon Circle Club on the Celebration grounds. Celebration Board of Directors Chairman David L. Howard presided over the meeting and brought association members up to date on the state of the industry and the search for a new chief executive officer. ...
Group takes steps to promote sound horses (01/04/08)
"The End of Soring" is the goal of the first Sound Horse Conference to be held in Columbus, Ohio, later this year. The event is set for April 11-12 at the Hilton Garden Inn and is sponsored by Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association, the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the American Horse Protection Association, Friends of Sound Horses and the Humane Society of the United States...
Holton execution, Thomas' firing are year's top stories (12/31/07)
For the past week, the Times-Gazette has been looking back at 2007 by counting down the top 10 news stories of the year as voted by a panel of T-G staffers. Here are the stories revealed so far: 10) Standardized School Attire proposed...
School attire, TWHNC begin top story countdown (12/26/07)
From now until New Year's Eve, the Times-Gazette will take a look back at 2007 by counting down the top 10 news stories of the year as voted by a panel of T-G staffers. What makes a story newsworthy? There are several factors can come into play. ...
Celebration names CEO search committee (12/15/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has formed a search committee to find a new chief executive officer and show manager. Director Pat Marsh, who will serve as the committee's chairman, selected the seven-member committee. The members of the committee are all members of the TWHNC Association. In addition to Marsh, they include Tommy Anderton, David Crowell, Edward C. Huffman, Jr., Scott McDonald, D.B. Nelson, Jr., and Donna Stone...
Truck stolen from The Scoop (12/12/07)
A truck belonging to The Scoop horse industry newspaper was stolen from in front of its Elm Street offices after noon Sunday, Shelbyville police say. The theft was reported Monday. The following persons were arrested since Monday by the Shelbyville Police Department, Bedford County Sheriff's Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol or 17th Judicial District Drug Task Force and processed through Bedford County Jail. They are only charged; guilt or innocence will be determined by the courts...
Walking Horses to patrol National Parks (12/11/07)
LEWISBURG -- The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association has announced a first-of-its-kind partnership with the National Park Service. An agreement between the organizations will initiate efforts to work together on projects to enhance training of park rangers in horsemanship and educate recreational trail riders of all ages...
Howard addresses TWHNC controversy (12/07/07)
David Howard spoke up about former Celebration CEO Ron Thomas' resignation, responded to rumors, and answered questions about the walking horse industry as a whole during a presentation to Shelbyville Rotary Club on Thursday. Howard is the president of Walking Horse Report and the chairman of the Celebration board of directors...
Howard, Bobo, McDonald named executive committee (12/05/07)
A three-member executive committee has been appointed by the Celebration Board of Directors to assist Interim CEO Virgil Johnson, according to board chairman David L. Howard. The committee will consist of board members Charles McDonald, John T. Bobo and Howard...
Green honored as 'Trainer of the Year' at banquet (12/04/07)
Shelbyville's Charlie Green was presented the prestigious title of Trainer of the Year during the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) Horse of the Year Awards Banquet on Saturday night. The banquet and presentations concluded the official year-end meetings for the association, during which Link Webb of Lewisburg was elected as WHTA president. ...
Walking Horse industry moves forward (12/03/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse industry is seeing signs of daylight following a weekend of elections for Lewisburg-based Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) and Shelbyville-based Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA)...
Thomas fired as CEO of Celebration (11/29/07)
Ron Thomas is no longer the chief executive officer and show manager of the Celebration, according to a news release issued yesterday afternoon. Thomas, speaking through his wife Cathy, told the Times-Gazette he was fired....
Fire claims lives of 30 Spotted Saddle Horses (11/26/07)
A pre-dawn fire today took the lives of approximately 30 Spotted Saddle Horses. The blaze at Dickie Gardner Stables, Whitaker Road, was discovered after 3 a.m., officials said. "Some neighbors saw it and called us," Gardner said. "We (Gardner and his wife, Misti) got here and tried to get in but the firefighters wouldn't let us inside. They said it was already too far gone."...
Celebration hosts equine leaders (11/24/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration recently hosted representatives from several key equine and animal protection agencies in an effort to "open doors, initate dialogue, and forge positive partnerships," according to a news release. Participating agencies included United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), American Horse Protection Association (AHPA), and American Humane Association (AHA)...
Celebration forms its own HIO (11/23/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has officially formed its own Horse Industry Organization (HIO), which has been certified by the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Inspection Service (USDA APHIS). The name of the HIO will be S.H.O.W., based on the long-standing acronym of the S.H.O.W. intitiative: Sound horses, Honest judging, Objective inspections, and Winning fairly...
Celebration lights brighten holidays (11/20/07)
The lights will go on tonight, marking the renewal of a growing tradition in Shelbyville. "A Celebration Christmas" has begun and will run through the end of the year. "The holiday light show is our gift to the community for what they do for us all year," said Celebration CEO Ron Thomas. "They work so hard to help us make The Celebration such a terrific event, it seems right for us to add to their holiday season."...
Celebration holds appreciation dinner (11/13/07)
Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration held its annual appreciation dinner Monday night at the Blue Ribbon Circle Club. Nearly 200 people were on hand for the festivities, which honor full-time and seasonal employees and others who play a role during the world championship horse show...
One TWHNC judge has 'questionable' polygraph (11/06/07)
As part of a plan announced prior to this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, 16 key officials with the show -- management, judges and industry stewards -- agreed to submit themselves for polygraph testing in September. The show has announced that 15 of those people passed with flying colors; one had questionable reactions, which the unnamed subject -- a judge -- is blaming on stress because a threatening message was left in his driveway...
Thirteen named to TWHNC Hall of Fame (10/31/07)
The board of directors of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has named 13 new members to the TWHNC Hall of Fame, including Bailey Little of Shelbyville. They will be inducted at a dinner in their honor on Feb. 23, 2008 in Calsonic Arena...
Witnesses say food was available for horses (10/10/07)
LEWISBURG -- A Chapel Hill-area man accused of cruelty to animals made arrangements to have his horses fed while he was out of state during last summer's heat when one of them died, according to witnesses he has ready for his trial. Marshall County General Sessions Court Judge Steve Bowden announced Tuesday that Derrick Ulmer's witnesses must return on Dec. 18, when he will preside over the case brought as a result of two citations issued by the sheriff's department...
Wind shift blows fire onto horse farm worker (10/03/07)
A longtime Shelbyville horse industry worker was seriously burned Tuesday afternoon when his clothing caught fire while burning brush. Ray Campbell, said to be in his 40s, was working at Samuel Acres, Highway 64 West. "The wind shifted and burned the fire toward Ray," horse trainer Dude Crowder, who extinguished the flames, said...
Webb claims International for second year (10/01/07)
Link Webb earned the title of International Grand Champion Walking Horse for the second year in a row on Saturday night as the property of Michael and Ann Jones' entry, Santana's El Niño topped a star-studded class of five to wear the roses at the 2007 International Grand Championship Walking Horse Show in Murfreesboro...
International show off to successful start (09/28/07)
Trainers from across the nation converged on Murfreesboro last night as the International Grand Championship Walking Horse Show Performance opened its doors for the 29th annual event. "We are thrilled with the response," said show manager Tommy Hall, Executive Director of the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA), sponsoring organization of the show that runs through Saturday night at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum...
Horse show to benefit Relay for Life (09/26/07)
A new horse show in town announced its judge and title sponsorship Monday. The Ellie Jackson Charity Horse Show will be held Oct. 13 at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center on Midland Road and Don Milligan will mark the cards. All proceeds from the new show benefit the American Cancer Society...
Street named for World Grand Champion (09/24/07)
The World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse is honored each year by having a street at the Historic Celebration Grounds named in his honor. The sign bearing the name "Master of Jazz Way" went up this week at the historic show grounds. All of the streets on the grounds of The Celebration are named for individuals or horses of significance in the history of the world championship horse show...
Gardner is a familar face in SSHBEA (09/24/07)
The opening of the Spotted Saddle Horse World Championships on Saturday saw many familiar faces in and around center ring. One of those was Dickie Gardner, Trainer of the Year in 1999 and again in 2004, who is this year's president of the Professional Spotted Saddle Horse Trainers' Association. He's also a board member of SSHBEA...
SSHBEA show starts Saturday (09/18/07)
The Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association's (SSHBEA) World Championship is just days away. Opening on Saturday evening at 6, the show will crown a new SSHBEA World Grand Champion the following Saturday night at Calsonic Arena. Tickets for the seven night event are still available at the SSHBEA office for $5. Children under 6 are admitted free of charge...
International show planned next week (09/17/07)
The 29th annual International Walking Horse Grand Championship horse show will open its doors for performance horse competition at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro on Sept. 27. The show, managed by Walking Horse Owners Association (WHOA) Executive Director Tommy Hall, was considered a huge success last year. Hall expects the same this year...
2007 Celebration called a success (09/14/07)
Celebration CEO Ron Thomas released the show manager's report for the 2007 World Grand Championship event yesterday showing a positive view of the Walking Horse industry's largest and most promenient show. "It was rewarding this year to see that 66 percent of the horses that entered (the competition) actually came to the show ring," Thomas said. "This figure is an improvement over the 60 percent that showed in 2006."...
Owners, trainer celebrate Celebration win (09/04/07)
Trainer Jimmy McConnell. left, and his wife Gayle joined owners Lee Wall and Mike McGartland following the successful conclusion of 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration for the Master of Jazz team on Saturday night. The black roan stallion topped 12 entries to achieve the World Grand Champion title that marked McConnell's second WGC in three years having won in 2004 on Black Night Shade. ...
Master of Jazz wins World Grand Championship (09/01/07)
Master of Jazz and trainer Jimmy McConnell were crowned World Grand Champions of the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration on Saturday night on the historic show grounds. Lee Wall of Jackson, Miss., and Mike McGartland of Ft. Worth, Texas are the owners of the aged black roan stallion that stands over 16 hands....
Jose's All Pro takes acclaim on Friday (09/01/07)
If officials of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration desired the world to stand up and take notice, Bill Bobo and Jose's All Pro were the ambassadors on Friday night as they were crowned Junior World Grand Champions. In a field of eight strong contenders who previously qualified for competition in the class, a workout of seven found Bobo accumulating a following as his own with each lap the horses made....
O'Brien wins Amateur Show Pleasure title (08/31/07)
Over 18,000 Tennessee Walking Horse fans were in attendance for the first night of all championship competitions on Thursday as the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration prepares to crown the 2007 World Grand Champion on Saturday night as a grand finalé of the 11-day, 10-night event...
Web readers predict Rowdy Rev as WGC (08/31/07)
Readers of the Times-Gazette web site, t-g.com, who participated in a non-scientific poll this week predict Rowdy Rev and trainer Bill Bobo will win this year's World Grand Championship. The poll asked, "Which horse will be the next World Grand Champion?" and listed seven top finishers from last Saturday's aged stallion division, with an eighth option for "other." There were 213 votes cast, breaking down as follows:...
Championship weekend starts tonight (08/30/07)
Championship weekend begins tonight in the big oval on the historic Celebration show grounds but Wednesday night, in the final class of preliminary competitions, the crowd of more 12,000 voiced their opinions loudly as favored contender after contender walked through the entry gates, vying for a world title...
Nipper captures equine images (08/30/07)
Hailing from East Tennessee, artist Billie Nipper is the type of friend one instantly warms to, regardless of where you're heading or where you've been. Her warm personality and sweet sense of humor is a blessing to tired bodies in need of a quiet touch of humanity...
'When you walked the ground shook' (08/29/07)
Headed into the final leg of competitions at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the horse community at large -- trainers, owners, spectators and officials -- should be proud of this breed and what has been accomplished during this past year...
Celebration rolls on in style (08/29/07)
"Success" is a word being heard on the historic show grounds of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration as the show prepares to head into the weekend's championship classes. Tuesday night marked another rousing display of the word as 252 entries made their way down the entry shoot to show before a crowd that topped 10,000 in attendance. Thirteen classes filled the night's program that, by comparison of a one-night event's 25 classes, made the classes full of championship competition...
Red, white and blue shown to support TWHNC (08/29/07)
Though only a few days remain in the schedule of the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC), Bedford County Mayor Eugene Ray is calling for a show of support for the Walking Horse industry by dressing the county in red, white and blue bows and streamers...
Horses in cruelty case released to rescue group (08/29/07)
A soldier stationed at Smyrna has relinquished ownership of his horses to an animal rescue group and his preliminary hearing on animal cruelty charges in Marshall County General Sessions Court was rescheduled yesterday until Oct. 9, the man's defense attorney said...
Challenge trophies fall at Monday show (08/28/07)
Unanimous decisions and retiring challenge trophies were the order of the day as the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration continued on Monday night. Over 9,760 spectators, the third largest Monday night in the history of the show, were on hand for the competitions which featured large classes and workouts...
The pause that refreshes horse show visitors (08/27/07)
Concessions come in all shapes, sizes, tastes and caloric intake at the 69h annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Those working behind the stands, often behind the scene, are faces of Bedford County neighbors, willing to lend a hand. At the end of the day, when proceeds are counted and bills are paid, according to Roy Bartlette of the American Legion booth, the fun really begins...
Weekend classes prove successful (08/27/07)
Despite muggy temperatures and sporadic rain showers, a weekend of winning was the theme at the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. As traditional as a full moon on a late August night, the excitement of the first Saturday night of competition drew a large crowd into Shelbyville. The final classes of the evening were the expectation and from the cheers of the 15,000-plus crowd, they were not disappointed....
Drawing leads to success for Lutes (08/25/07)
Larry Lutes, II of Sikeston, Mo., never intended to spend his life as an artist. It just happened. However, he isn't regretting his talent. In fact, he's displaying it today at World Champion Horse Equipment for all to see. "I enjoyed roping and riding," the father of one said, looking back on his younger years. "I really enjoy horses but I had a terrible accident that prevents me from doing much of that now...
Friday Celebration shortened by weather (08/25/07)
On Friday night, Bedford County got of a double-dose of blessings as rains poured into the drought-stricken area. Regardless of the weather, the horses came as well. At the opening ceremonies, already a wet track and dripping crowd stood for recognition of the majesty and beauty of Counterfeit Dollar and Bud Seaton displaying the nation's color...
State health officials urge caution (08/24/07)
As the heat wave continues, state Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper encourages Tennesseans to stay cautious; meanwhile, Bedford County Emergency Medical Services reported only one heat-related complaint during the first night of the Celebration on Thursday...
Rawhide & Dusty to entertain TWHNC crowd (08/24/07)
Celebration audiences are in for a treat on Friday and Saturday nights during the show when Rawhide and Dusty, a cowboy team of horse and rider, gallop into the big oval for an exhibition that will have folks gasping with excitement. "This isn't just another performance. This is, well, incredible to see," said Howard Roberts, longtime Walking Horse judge and trainer...
Victoria's Secret a unanimous 3-Year-Old Mare winner (08/24/07)
Old habits are not easily forgotten; neither are old friends and stomping grounds as was evident Thursday night as fans of the Tennessee Walking Horse arrived in droves to view the opening night of the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration held on the historic show grounds, underneath the twinkling stars and humid skies of late August...
Halle Berry wins as TWHNC kicks off (08/23/07)
Despite the hottest temperatures in 110 years, the 69th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration opened its doors Wednesday morning for the first of many competitions to be held inside the Calsonic Arena on the historic horse show grounds...
Hot weather, low numbers for Futurity (08/23/07)
Though the night was hot, the entries were light at the National Futurity on Wednesday night. Perhaps the show was evidence of the changes within the executive division and many rule changes the sponsoring organization, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA), has made throughout the year...
You can't argue with the figures (08/22/07)
Comedy Central's hilarious TV program "The Colbert Report" stars Stephen Colbert in a parody of some well-known political pundits. On his very first night on the air, Colbert coined a word that has since entered the lexicon: "truthiness." It's a word referring to the type of statement that seems true to the person saying it, regardless of the facts, and usually implies that the writer or speaker doesn't particularly want to be disturbed by the facts, just like the character Colbert portrays so brilliantly on his show.. ...
It's horse show time again (08/22/07)
OK, OK! I know, it's horse show time in Shelbyville. With that comes the disparaging remarks about flies, traffic jams, and other inconveniences from the general public of Bedford County. There are parents who don't want children to be out of school. That causes an inconvenience for them because of child care...
Honey Princess to visit Celebration (08/22/07)
For many visitors and fans of the Tennessee Walking Horse, the calendar marks an exciting day today as the 69th annual Celebration opens its gates for competition. It is a day as sweet as honey. The show draws horses and fans, media and even other horse breeds from around the world. But on Aug. 27, it will also draw a the Honey Princess...
'Free The Breeders' hopes for industry unity (08/21/07)
"Free the Breeders" is a new organization on the scene in the Walking Horse world. However, that doesn't mean the group of hard-working individuals are strangers to the industry. "When we began the group," said spokesperson Joni Jenné, "people were skeptical at first. But once we explained our platform, the memberships began to grow."...
Celebration makes huge financial impact (08/20/07)
Like an old family friend, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) has been with Shelbyville since 1939, so long that many can't remember there being a time when there wasn't a horse show. If there is one segment of the county's business community that has its finger on the pulse of Bedford County's economic health, it is the real estate market. ...
Celebration exhibitors cope with hot weather (08/20/07)
Howard Hamilton watched the early morning rays of the sun rise over The Celebration grounds as he exercised horses. "I told the boys that we had to get an early start," he said. "It's just too hot. But, on the other hand, it doesn't look like the heat is going to leave, so they have to be conditioned for the show. It'll be hot for those classes too."...
What if the horses didn't come? (08/18/07)
Editor's Note: The following article is being reprinted due to the many requests received. Like the aftermath of a cataclysmic disaster, the ghosts of yesterday's colorful past swept up and down Madison Street one hot August day. Instead of a street crowded with tourists and horse trailers, emptiness crowded the silence. Businesses were closed. Houses stood empty. Signs swung on rusty nails in the humid breeze...
Pritchet named TWHNC Queen (08/14/07)
Ashley Pritchet of Hendersonville was named Miss TWHNC Queen on Saturday night. The event, sponsored by the Shelbyville Jaycees, is a part of the yearly pageantry of The Celebration where the queen and her court will be presented on Aug. 24. First runner-up of the event was Emily Margaret Hobbs of McMinnville. ...
Futurity won't be a qualifier for Celebration events (08/14/07)
Though it won't be managed by the Celebration for the first time in 20-plus years, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) will again host its National Futurity competition at Calsonic Arena on Aug. 23 at 5:30 p.m...
Celebration changes in place (08/13/07)
Changes to ensure the credibility and security of the show will be in place on Aug. 23 when the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) opens the gates. According to Celebration CEO Ron Thomas, virtually every major group within the Walking Horse industry and outside organizations such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), has been contacted and consulted by the Celebration board to gain knowledge regarding policies designed to ensure to the protection of the horses shown during the show.. ...
Work toward Celebration underway (08/11/07)
The stage is set and the players will soon be gathering for the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC). Many participants took time this weekend to prepare barns on the grounds as they work in preparation for the show. Cleaning, washing and even planting flowers were on tap around the show grounds as The Celebration staff burned the midnight oil getting entries listed and programs ready for printing...
Trainers donate food for abandoned horses (08/10/07)
Food is on the way to 16 horses rescued on a Lewisburg farm earlier this week thanks to the efforts of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA). The horses, whose breeding is not known, were moved by the members of a local rescue shelter to Gallatin's Volunteer Equine Advocates...
Keep your horses safe from high heat (08/08/07)
There is no doubt that Bedford County is horse country. As temperatures soar, many people may know to take care of themselves and pets but often don't consider what variables calculate together to equal extreme heat conditions for horses as well. According to State Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, temperatures at or near 100 degrees demand people to take extra caution...
Success for traditional August one-night shows (08/06/07)
Approximately 500 Walking Horse contenders vied for honors in last week's shows in Fayetteville, Belfast and Wartrace. With a 99.8 percent compliance rate in the inspection shed under the scrutiny of both the Designated Qualified Persons (DQP) inspectors and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Veterinary Medical Officers (VMO), Walking Horse enthusiasts declared the weekend a success...
Pistol claims Splash Classic; Fayetteville entries down (08/03/07)
He's Packin' a Pistol and Jeff Hatcher were a familiar team in the winner's circle on Wednesday night at the Pre-Celebration Splash Classic, a new show for an audience of Shelbyville's Walking Horse enthusiasts. Jerry Woodlee judged the event, held at the Bedford County Ag Center. It kicked off a long weekend of horse shows...
Wartrace Horse Show starts its second hundred years (08/02/07)
For Walking Horse enthusiasts, the calendar is just a reminder of horse show dates. The squares containing the numbers most call "dates" are merely spaces to scribble in a name of a show. More than 100 years of those calendars have contained the word "Wartrace" written in bold letters on the first Saturday box of August. ...
Horse show action marches on as August nears (07/30/07)
Though The Celebration is still almost a month away, championship caliber competition once again invaded the middle Tennessee area this weekend. Beginning with Dickson County Horse Show and following through to the Red Carpet Horse Show in Pulaski on Saturday night, contenders listed among "those who will vie" were gathering support among the fans and claiming titles to add to their lengthy resumes...
Fair horse show will be held Friday (07/26/07)
One of the highlights of the Bedford County Fair is, without doubt, also the essence of a country county fair. The animals on exhibit, in competition and in blue ribbons, are the stars of the show. Such will be the case on Friday night as the All Pleasure Horse Show rolls out the red carpet for entries in 24 classes of competition...
Celebration time (07/25/07)
The 69th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is now underway in Shelbyville. Look for complete coverage in every issue of the Times-Gazette, and don't miss our special feature-packed Souvenir Edition this Friday. Here are some helpful links for visitors and locals alike...
Pistol hits a bullseye in Lynchburg (07/24/07)
Jeff Hatcher and I'm Packin' A Pistol didn't exactly ride off into the sunset as the night was inky black when the titles were announced, but the duo once again had the crowd cheering as the Charlene Gibson-supported pair collected yet another prestigious hoofprint on their ladder of success, leading them closer to the Big Oval of Celebration competition...
Box seat tickets are in the mail (07/21/07)
For many, going to the mailbox can be a mundane ritual. Put the payment in the box, and before you know it, another bill appears to take its place. But, on one special day in July, many residents, both far and near, will find a plain brown wrapped package in their box. Opening it will reveal the opportunity for days and nights of enjoyment, fellowship and anticipated results...
Farrar to announce morning classes (07/20/07)
The familiar voice of hometown announcer Mark Farrar, Jr. will call the morning classes at this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, according to Celebration CEO Ron Thomas. Farrar, a native and resident of Flat Creek, has been the primary announcer for the National Trainers' Show for many years in Calsonic Arena. ...
TWHNC signs with horse show commission (07/19/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) officially signed papers yesterday at noon, affiliating with the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) for the 2007 World Championship event. "This is a great step for this indistry," said NHSC Chairman Wink Groover. "After all, the NHSC is the largest Horse Industry Organization (HIO), period, in the industry. We are thrilled with the decision and to have them aboard."...
TWHNC included in book of must-see sights (07/17/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is listed among the top 1,000 places to see in North America, according to a best-selling author and travel writer. Travel writer and author Patricia Schultz revolutionized the way we think about travel with her runaway New York Times bestseller 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Now she turns her sharp eye to our own continent with 1,000 Places to See in the USA and Canada Before You Die...
Hot summer competition in Cornersville (07/16/07)
The Cornersville Horse Show hosted a hot show on Friday night that didn't just have to due with the mid-July temperatures. Jennifer Bingham Davis judged the 30 classes of competition that were well-filled with talented contenders. The Cornersville shows falls mid-way in the summer calendar that leads to Belfast, Pulaski, Wartrace, International Flat Shod and then, The Celebration...
Putting the celebrating back in the Celebration (07/14/07)
Throughout this week, I have been abundantly blessed to enjoy the Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show. What a wonderful event! The people are friendly and sociable, with that ole-fashioned quality to is so often missed when people participate in something that they enjoy but take so seriously...
Community cornerstone Tilford dies (07/13/07)
Shelbyville native, World War II veteran, Director Emeritus of The Celebration Board of Directors, Webb School graduate and board of directors member, Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow, Celebration Hall of Fame member and county visionary Henry Cannon Tilford, Jr., died yesterday at his home after an extended illness. He was 90...
Mule, donkey fans treated to watermelon (07/13/07)
They came on foot, in the back of trucks, on four-wheelers, golf carts and by mule. Hundreds of mule and donkey enthusiasts, with smiles that stretched miles and warm greeting to friends and would be friends, came to enjoy the watermelon cutting under the Celebration Pavilion yesterday...
Mule, donkey fans treated to watermelon (07/13/07)
They came on foot, in the back of trucks, on four-wheelers, golf carts and by mule. Hundreds of mule and donkey enthusiasts, with smiles that stretched miles and warm greeting to friends and would be friends, came to enjoy the watermelon cutting under the Celebration Pavilion yesterday...
Mules, more arrive for annual show (07/12/07)
With the feel of an ole-fashioned social gathering, the fields, stalls, grounds and arenas were filling quickly Wednesday as the Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show participants arrived in Shelbyville to participate at the second largest competition of its kind in the nation...
Judges announced for 69th Celebration (07/11/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (The Celebration, TWHNC) announced the judges for the 69th Annual World Grand Championship event. According to Celebration CEO Ron Thomas, this is a highly qualified panel. Marking the cards this year will be Mike Carpenter, Sam Sorrell, Allen Forman, Justin Jenné and Ronnie Spears...
Trainers, NHSC vote to sign Operating Plan (07/10/07)
In a decision that was nothing less than history-making, the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) voted yesterday to sign the 2007-2009 United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Operating Plan. The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC), made up of representatives of the WHTA A and the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA), concurred with the vote of the Trainers, accepting the Plan with the proposed changes in a 7-1 decision in a separate meeting...
Once a joke, mules are serious business for Moore (07/10/07)
Bill Moore of Shelbyville imagines if his grandfather knew how he was making his living these days, he would be rolling over in his grave. In fact, if time rolled back 30 or so years, and Moore was told what he would be doing today, he likely wouldn't believe it either...
Hatcher, Pistol add another notch (07/09/07)
Jeff Hatcher and I'm Packin' A Pistol added another championship title to their growing list of 2007 Walking Horse championship credentials on Saturday night as the Woodbury Walking Horse Show came to a successful conclusion. Charlene Gibson is the owner of the horse that also claimed the National Trainers' Show title among his spring victories...
Money Tree Classic a success (07/09/07)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Auxiliary hosted the tremendously successful 23rd Annual Money Tree Classic on Thursday. On a perfect summer evening, approximately 3,000 spectators gathered at the Bedford County Agricultural Center to watch 293 entries compete in what will certainly be one of the largest one-night horse shows this season...
Pistol, Hatcher add another notch (07/09/07)
Jeff Hatcher and I'm Packin' A Pistol added another championship title to their growing list of 2007 Walking Horse championship credentials on Saturday night as the Woodbury Walking Horse Show came to a successful conclusion. Charlene Gibson is the owner of the horse that also claimed the National Trainers' Show title among his spring victories...
Great Celebration Mule, Donkey Show nears (07/07/07)
While Shelbyville is known for horses, the Celebration presents a horse of a different, well, kind, beginning Thursday as the 16th annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show hits the historic show grounds. Contenders from across the country representing 25 states will arrive in the county early this week, loaded with quality contenders and competitive natures, making the Great Celebration show the second largest event of its kind in the nation...
Rowdy Rev, Bobo champs on 4th (07/06/07)
Repeating the stake win from last year, Rowdy Rev and Bill Bobo claimed top honors on Wednesday night at the Bethesda Fourth of July Walking Horse Show. Owned by Bill Harlin of Franklin's Harlinsdale Farms, Rowdy Rev is in his second year as an aged stallion with wins on his 2007 record that includes the Celebration Spring Fun Show and Columbia's Walking in the Park stake titles. ...
Local horses win in Murfreesboro show (06/25/07)
As predictable as sunshine and heat in Tennessee during the summer, the Murfreesboro Exchange Club hosted fans of the Walking Horse industry on Saturday with an exciting turnout. Trailer after trailer of enthusiasts attended the show, many from just across the neighboring county line...
Blue Diamond takes blue ribbon at FFA show (06/18/07)
Eddie Guthrie judged the 26 classes of competition at Thursday night's Bedford FFA Horse Show. Held at the Ag Center, the show kicked off a weekend of competition that was as hot as the weather. Link Webb and The Blue Diamond claimed the show's Open Stake title for Holland and King. Herbert Derickson was reserve aboard Dr. and Mrs. John Brundige's Solar Generated. Third in the class was Robbie Black aboard Santana's Bad Boy for Bill Sloane...
Liberty Lions horse show called a success (06/18/07)
Storm clouds loomed on the horizon Friday night, but the 8th annual Liberty Lions Club Walking Horse Show at the Agricultural Extension Center was a dazzling success. Despite the uncertain forecast, about 1,000 fans turned out Friday night to watch 250 entries compete in 32 classes...
Futurity to remain at Celebration Grounds (06/16/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) and Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association (TWHBEA) reached an agreement that the National Futurity, affiliated with the TWHBEA Horse Industry Organization (HIO), will be held at Calsonic Arena on August 22...
Liberty Lions horse show set Friday (06/13/07)
With the weekend right around the corner, that can only mean one thing for many Bedford County residents: horse show time. The Liberty Lions Club presents its 8th annual Walking Horse show beginning 6:30 p.m. Friday at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center. Admission is $5 for adults with children under 6 years old admitted free...
Horse whisperer will highlight county fair (06/11/07)
Shelbyville's Sam Powell is renown in horse circles around the world. Known by many as the Horse Whisperer, his abilities in working with the equine world will be demonstrated to audiences during this year's Bedford County Fair. As head of Sam Powell Equine Consulting Services, Powell daily introduces horse owners to his system of non-violent and effective training. ...
Limited number of boxes available (06/09/07)
One of the most prized pieces of real estate in Bedford County is only about eight-feet square: a box of seats at The Celebration. Each year, several boxes are turned in for 'one year only' sales. This normally occurs when the box holder is not able to make it to The Celebration that particular year due to an illness, graduation, wedding, or other family event. This year is no differentthere are several boxes available for purchase for 2007...
Callaway, PGA take blue in Columbia (06/04/07)
Bedford County horse enthusiasts invaded the garden city of Columbia over the weekend, capturing top honors in many divisions of Walking Horse competition. Judges for the Columbia Spring Jubilee came from far and wide to score the cards. Jamie Bradshaw, Chris Messick and Brandye Mills awarded over 300 honors in 55 classes during the two-day event...
NHSC offer to TWHNC being considered (06/02/07)
Opportunities for three persons selected by Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) to serve the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) in honorary positions is still under study, according to Celebration Board Chairman David Howard. A letter released by the NHSC invited Celebration officials to appoint representatives "to sit in and participate in NHSC discussions each month for the remainder of the year."...
Local riders win at Columbia Spring Jubilee (06/02/07)
Embracing the cloudy evening and chance of rain showers throughout the middle Tennessee area, horse show enthusiasts headed for Columbia on Friday night to kick off the two-day Columbia Spring Jubilee. For decades the show has followed the Spring Fun Show. There was a brief lull in that tradition when the show changed dates, but not gathering the out-of-state traffic as it was accustomed, the show committee soon returned to the first weekend after Memorial Day...
Celebration to join NHSC (06/01/07)
The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration are joining forces to formulate and continue to provide a strong platform for the Walking Horse industry. Wink Groover, president of NHSC, outlined by letter the offer of three honorary positions for Celebration members, selected by the TWHNC Association, to serve on the NHSC...
Rowdy Rev caps off successful Fun Show (05/29/07)
Rowdy Rev and Bill Bobo had the crowd singing praises and the judges unanimously joining in, capturing the 37th Annual Spring Fun Show Aged Stallion championship colors for Bill Harlin of Franklin. Joe Cotton and The Golden Sovereign were second for the Dan McSwaim family and I'm Packin' A Pistol and Jeff Hatcher were third for Charlene Gibson....
Jazz King strikes the right chord at Fun Show (05/26/07)
Entries continued to be high at Friday night's edition of the Spring Fun Show, held each Memorial Day weekend at Calsonic Arena on the historic Celebration grounds. Sponsored by The Celebration, the event has been a wealth of competition and a source of entertainment for those present...
Opening night of Fun Show a success (05/25/07)
The opening musical chords from Larry Bright's organ announced the opening moments of the 37th Annual Spring Fun on Thursday night. The music, like the entries that filled the Calsonic Arena, was sweet music to the Walking Horse enthusiast's ears. Over 200 entries answered the class calls during the 16 classes of competition. ...
Open the book and enjoy the show! (05/23/07)
For those who believe in the old adage "don't judge a book by its cover," this weekend is a perfect time to show your true colors. Over the past few months, it has been my endeavor to prove the value of the Walking Horse industry to the community. In articles run in late April, I attempted to hit readers where it would most likely hurt: the pocketbook...
Fun Show puts spotlight on new plan (05/24/07)
Winston Churchill once said, " You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb." The Walking Horse industry stands on the precipe of success but rather than screaming of the dangling victory with resolutions regarding the Operating Plan presented to Horse Industry Organizations (HIO) by the federal goverment officals of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), most trainers and owners are quietly going about business as usual, making changes that affect each tomorrow. ...
Fun Show opens Thursday (05/22/07)
The horses are coming! The Celebration opens its historic gates on Thursday night to welcome the 37th annual Spring Fun Show. Begun as a fund raiser for a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), the show has grown over the years to be one of the most prestigious events of the early Tennessee Walking Horse competition season. ...
Horse show fun this weekend (05/18/07)
The Petersburg Lions Club rolls out the welcome mat tonight for their second edition of its Walking Horse showcase. Held at the Lions Club Park, the show begins at 6:30 p.m. with an admission fee of $5. Children under 10 are free. A stick horse class will kick off the events for judge Rob Cornelius of Rogersville, Ala. Amateur, youth and professional classes of competition line the 28 class roster...
State expects strong summer tourism season (05/18/07)
An elderhostel group from Sugar Tours in West Dover, Vt., toured Waterfall Farms and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds on Thursday, on their way to downtown Lynchburg and a meal at Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House. Diane Murray of Tennessee's Backroads Heritage, a tourism group promoting this area, traveled with the group. Murray became director of Tennessee's Backroads this year after retiring from the state's tourism development program...
NHSC votes for operating plan (05/16/07)
The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) voted unanimously by conference call to accept the proposed operating plan for horse show inspections as it has been amended. The Operating Plan is the set of governing rules, established by the Horse Protection Act through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ...
Local horses find success in Gallatin (05/14/07)
One trailer after another loaded with Walking Horses left Bedford County on Saturday afternoon. Their destination: Gallatin Lions Club Horse Show. On the heels of the SCHS Band Show on Friday night, the weekend was deemed a rousing success by trainers...
Despite the rain, the horses came (05/12/07)
Despite the much-needed rain that fell in Bedford County on Friday night, Central High School Band members and boosters were whistling "Dixie" with the outcome of the walking horse show they sponsored at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center...
Discussion of horse operating plan continues (05/09/07)
Horse industry organization (HIO) representatives and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) met in Washington, DC, Monday to discuss amendments relating to the wording of the Operating Plan 2007-2009. Three proposed changes to the current wording were made. These amendments are to be discussed by the organizations within the Walking Horse industry represented at the meeting. According to sources for the Times-Gazette, the meeting was considered successful by all those in attendance...
Central High band hosts benefit horse show (05/08/07)
With summer sun and long, warm evenings come lightning bugs, gathering friends and, in Bedford County, horse shows. This weekend is no exception to that rule as the Shelbyville Central High School Band hosts its third rendition of its Walking Horse competition...
SSHBEA hosts spring show (05/03/07)
Spring has sprung and colors are coming out all over including inside the Calsonic Arena on the historic Celebration show grounds as Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (SSHBEA) hosts the Spring Show this Thursday-Saturday. The show begins nightly at 6:30 with competitions for spotted horses in lite shod, trail pleasure, juvenile, open and amateur divisions. ...
TWHNC takes tourism honor again (05/02/07)
For the 19th time in 20 years, The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been given recognition as one of the top twenty events in the Southeast Tourism Society. Put on the list for the first time in 1988, the show has drawn continuous nominations for the honor. To be nominated, the event must have a minimum of 1,000 in attendance. The list is published by the Society quarterly throughout the U.S., reaching millions of readers...
Celebration plans to work with NHSC (04/26/07)
Taking bold steps into the business that keeps them ticking, Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC, The Celebration) announced Wednesday their intentions to work with the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) and the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) in strengthening and/or restructuring the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC), the regulatory hub of the Walking Horse breed...
Thank goodness, the horses do come (04/21/07)
Editor's note: Last in a series reviewing the Walking Horse industry and its significance in the community. This series has reviewed the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry...
Celebration makes massive financial impact (04/20/07)
Like an old family friend, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) has been with Shelbyville since 1939, so long that many can't remember there being a time when there wasn't a horse show. The longevity of the show makes it difficult to determine the exact tax impact that the annual event has on this community, according to Shelbyville Mayor Geneva Smith...
FOSH on attack against action devices (04/19/07)
Editor's note: Continuation in a series by the Times-Gazette covering issues related to the walking horse industry. Horses in competitive events, specifically the walking horse, is a special concern of Friends of Sound Houses, Inc. (FOSH). Spokesmen for the organization stress the effort of promoting "sound" naturally gaited horses...
Quarter Horse show comes to Calsonic Arena (04/19/07)
The Spring Classic, a quarter horse show sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association, will be held Friday through Sunday in Calsonic Arena. Action begins at 9 a.m. each day, and there's no charge for spectator admission. AQHA shows test horses' abilities in competitive events. Some of those, as described by the AQHA web site, include:...
NHSC puts strict penalties on violators (04/19/07)
Editor's note: Continuation in a series of stories regarding the walking horse industry. Every action has a reaction! Mothers across the world have taught this lesson for years and for most children, the idea has set a standard of obedience and the learned lesson of choosing between right and wrong. Repercussions for those straying from those standards are often costly and life altering...
Horse industry boosts real estate market (04/18/07)
Editor's note: Fourth in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance in this community. This series is reviewing the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry....
Trainers respond to PETA allegations (04/17/07)
Responses have been outpouring throughout the Tennessee Walking Horse regarding statements publicly made by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) spokesperson Erin Edwards...
Trainers unite against threats to industry (04/17/07)
Editor's Note: Third in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance in this community. This series will review the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry....
PETA takes hard-line stance on horses (04/16/07)
Editor's note: Second in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance to this community. This series will review the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry....
Civic clubs lean heavily on horse show income (04/14/07)
Editor's note: First in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance to this community. This series will review the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry....
What if the horses didn't come? (04/14/07)
It hadn't even been a year since the industry closed but the impact was felt all across the area. Residents had been warned of the economic domino effect it would have but no one listened because no one actually believe there could possibly come a day when the gates to The Celebration didn't swing open to welcome contenders and visitors alike onto the historic show grounds....
County will give $25K to Celebration (04/12/07)
Bedford County Board of Commissioners voted 17-1 Tuesday night to give $25,000 to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration as a show of support for the walking horse industry. The county's contribution follows a $25,000 contribution by the City of Shelbyville to the Walking Horse Trainers Association for its annual spring show...
Weather, politics affect horse show season (04/10/07)
Historically, the first weekend in April is sunny and warm. Historically, the first weekend in April, at least for nearly two decades, has played host in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry to the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) Kiwanis Spring Horse Show in Murfreesboro...
Derickson brings home 4-H title (04/03/07)
Warm night air and the heavy smell of spring blossoms ushered in the first one-night show of Shelbyville's Walking Horse season as Bedford County 4-H hosted the Harvest Festival Saturday, usually held in October. The Bedford County Ag Center was the backdrop of the 26 classes of Walking Horse contenders offered to the appreciative crowd...
State 4-Hers honor Celebration (03/30/07)
NASHVILLE -- The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration was inducted into the Diamond Clover Society Hall of Fame by the Tennessee 4-H Club Foundation during the 60th Tennessee 4-H Congress in Nashville. The award was presented in recognition of The Celebration's role as host of the Tennessee State 4-H Horse Show since 1984...
Thomas commends trainers on show (03/28/07)
The National Trainers Show drew to a close on Saturday below records of the past in the entry field, but in the division of interest, the show is still playing in conversations and thoughts of Walking Horse enthusiasts. The event, hosted by the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA), has traditionally been hailed as the season opener for the competitive breed although several shows south of Shelbyville have held various competitions since February...
Groover pleased with WHTA show (03/27/07)
With this year's National Trainers Show successfully concluded, Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) President Wink Groover is headed home to Longview, Texas, with a mixture of relief and accomplishment. "I'm just overwhelmed," he said Monday. ...
Jury: horse owner owes trainer (03/27/07)
A Lewisburg Highway horse farm owner must pay his debt to a trainer because of a Bedford County Circuit Court jury verdict on Monday when the owner failed to persuade the jury he didn't owe money by claiming a contract was void when soring was allegedly used to train his horse...
Trainers Show ends on positive note (03/26/07)
At 5:45 Saturday evening, the announcement came across the barn intercom in the voice of National Trainers' Show Co-chairman Benny Johnson: "The officials of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have told me they are pleased with the way the show is running. ...
Owner claims his horse was sored (03/26/07)
Jury selection was scheduled to begin this morning for a civil trial in a dispute between a horse trainer and a horse owner who says the trainer sored his horse, according to public documents. The trial in Bedford County Circuit Court is between Bill Reinhart, owner of a horse barn and farm on Highway 64, and Eddie Tuck of Eden, N.C., a horse trainer who had an oral agreement with Reinhart, records show...
Horse show enforcement: A primer (03/24/07)
Many fans of the walking horse industry continue to watch in dismay as the overall image of the breed is tarnished with rumors, accusations and negotiations. Many are asking to know what's all the fuss about when it comes to the smooth glide ride that accentuates the gait of the walking horse...
Celebration, city support Trainers Show (03/23/07)
The industry that has made the city of Shelbyville known worldwide as the "Walking Horse Capital of the World" announced that the City of Shelbyville has shown its support for the National Trainers' Show in a big way. Walking Horse Trainers' Association Director Benny Johnson joined Celebration CEO Ron Thomas and Shelbyville City Manager Ed Craig on the Celebration Grounds to accept a sponsorship check totaling $30,000 from The Celebration and the City of Shelbyville for their sponsorship of the event.. ...
Trainers Show continues upbeat performance (03/23/07)
There's no business like show business! Ethel Merman belted the message out for years on the Broadway stage and on the silver screen. Thursday night more than a few contenders at the National Trainers' Show had reason to sing along. The show, sponsored by the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA), rolled out the red carpet for officials of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as well as spectators from across the nation to observe classes filled with eager competitors...
Trainers Show off to a good start (03/22/07)
One hundred sixty-five entries heralded in the new show season on Wednesday night as the National Trainers Show opened its doors for Walking Horse competition. The 20 classes offered during the evening's competition ranged in variety from Model Plantation to Fine Harness to Pro/Am...
Horses return to ring at Trainers' Show (03/21/07)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) kicks off a new season of competition this week with the 39th annual National Trainers Show. Held on the historic Celebration show grounds' Calsonic Arena, the show offers over 75 classes of Walking Horse competition...
Government plan cracks down on abuse (03/09/07)
NASHVILLE (AP) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has toughened regulations to stem persistent abuse of Tennessee walking horses by keeping trainers and owners who violate the rules out of shows and sales. The Humane Society of the United States says the new two-year plan announced this month closes a loophole that's allowed some repeat abusers to continue showing and selling prized walking horses...
NHSC doesn't sign USDA Operating Plan (03/01/07)
Despite a pledge to work with and exceed the standards required, the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) voted Wednesday to forego signing of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2007-2009 Operating Plan under further decision and negotiations...
Legislative proposal concerns trainers (02/27/07)
Opening the door for a varied list of violations, citations and litigations, the proposed Tennessee Equine Protection Act, introduced by Sen. Tim Burchett (R-Knoxville) and Rep. Janis Baird Sontany (D-Nashville) in February's General Assembly activities, is being closely scrutinized by members of the walking horse community...
Bucky Griffy rides into his dream (02/24/07)
The outside of a horse, according to Winston Churchill, is good for the inside of man. No matter the age nor the ability, a horse can be the legs that brings dreams to life. The deep-abiding love of an animal, especially one that weighs over 1,100 pounds, is a love that is instinctive to the person, not something that is learned through a book. Nothing could be truer of a boy whose will to sit tall in the saddle changed not only his life but the life of a former show horse as well...
Bucky Griffy rides into his dream (02/24/07)
The outside of a horse, according to Winston Churchill, is good for the inside of man. No matter the age nor the ability, a horse can be the legs that brings dreams to life. The deep-abiding love of an animal, especially one that weighs over 1,100 pounds, is a love that is instinctive to the person, not something that is learned through a book. Nothing could be truer of a boy whose will to sit tall in the saddle changed not only his life but the life of a former show horse as well...
Trainers' show will be held (02/20/07)
It is often said "Beware the Ides of March" or that "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb." Wink Groover, president of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) plans to do the first and hope for the second. Following the "ides" of March on the 15th, and rallying for the lamb-like status at the end, the National Trainers' Show nestles its way into the month, securing the dates of March 21-24...
Celebration CEO is optimistic (02/05/07)
Professional golfer Tiger Woods once said, "In order to get better you must first get worse." Throughout the decades of professional competition of the walking horse industry, much the same can be said. In 20-year cycles, according to Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration CEO Ron Thomas, the industry has often gotten worse before getting better...
TWHNC rolls back ticket increase (02/02/07)
Citing an opportunity to "do something for the legions of fans who have been loyal through thick and thin," the board of directors of The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has voted to roll back price increases approved in August of last year. Prices for the 2007 Celebration will remain the same as in 2006...
Celebration takes a positive approach (02/02/07)
For many children and their parents, and those young at heart, the recent movie featuring a penguin who couldn't sing but could dance was spine tickling entertainment. The hero of the story is told countless times to give up his silly ways and conform to the status quo as penguins go. But relentlessly, through the snarls of frightening seals and mumbo-jumbo of other penguin cultures, the hero preserves, dancing to his own beat...
Groover plans get WHTA support (01/23/07)
Taking the initiative to make changes necessary to secure a successful show season, Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) voted unanimously at its January meeting to endorse the proposal for new show standards introduced by incoming president Wink Groover...
NHSC votes for massive revamping (01/23/07)
Following the precedent set by the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA), the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) voted Monday to redesign and update many positions and regulatory structures of the governmental entity of the Walking Horse breed...
Gallatin-based group wants tougher inspection rules (01/22/07)
CHATTANOOGA (AP) -- One group of walking horse inspectors has approved tougher inspection rules as other industry groups mount resistance to such rule changes proposed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Gallatin-based Horse Protection Commission has approved tougher inspection rules that were proposed a few years ago by the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association to eliminate the practice of soring...
The circus is coming (01/20/07)
The Greatest Show on Earth is on its way to Shelbyville -- and the clowns were in town to talk about it. Dave and Cherie Gregg, Good Will Ambassadors for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, visited last week to promote the Gold Tour of the circus, which will be at Calsonic Arena for five shows Feb. 23-25...
WHTA chief sees change in the future (01/19/07)
Incoming Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) president Wink Groover of Longview, Texas, smiled with anticipation as he spoke candidly Thursday about the future of the walking horse industry. In a nutshell, he said, the go-word is "change." "This is not the industry of the 1960s, or even the 90s," he began. "This is the industry of today, with today's rules and regulations. We have to change with the times...
Dog panel could be hindered by horse law (01/03/07)
A panel created by Bedford County commissioners to study vicious dog problems and recommend solutions has confronted an expensive issue for animal control departments across the nation. It's what to do if Congress enacts a law to prevent unwanted horses from being sent to slaughter houses to become feed for other animals or steaks in France where horse meat is considered a delicacy...
Determined horse owners try to protect breed's image (01/02/07)
Though the season itself had experienced its ups and downs, the trainers and owners of Tennessee Walking Horses entered the final days of August with optimism and staunch determination to continue a tradition lasting almost 70 years. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC, The Celebration) began as that tradition mandated but ended in a way no one could have expected...
Circus returns to Calsonic Arena (12/22/06)
When Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey rolls into Calsonic Arena, this all-new Ringling Bros. production will feature daredevil feats, non-stop laughs and an All Access Pre-show that's free to audiences one hour before show time. This circus spectacle boils all of the circus action down to a single ring -- providing a uniquely interactive and intimate Ringling Bros. experience...
No action taken on Horse Protection Act (12/14/06)
CHATTANOOGA (AP) -- Congress failed to address an effort to amend the Horse Protection Act before adjourning last week. Prompted by disagreements this year between federal agriculture inspectors and members of the Tennessee walking horse industry, former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., in September asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a clarification of the act...
Walking horse leaders want to get tough on abusers (12/12/06)
NASHVILLE (AP) -- After facing public criticism this year about the treatment of Tennessee Walking Horses, some industry leaders have proposed harsher penalties for those caught abusing horses for personal gain. "We want to see the horse be presented where the public can enjoy it, because it's the greatest horse in the world," trainer Wink Groover said Monday...
Groover to lead Trainers' Association (12/02/06)
FRANKLIN -- Standing on a platform of needed changes in 2007, Wink Groover of Longview, Texas, was elected president of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) on Friday during the annual meeting of the group. "There are two things that are here to stay," said Groover during his nomination speech which followed opponent Mack Motes of Eagleville. ...
Celebration leaders see better days ahead (11/15/06)
The difficulties which took place during the 2006 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will be resolved and the industry will move forward, industry leaders vowed Tuesday night at the Celebration's annual Appreciation Dinner. Chip Walters, director of public/media relations, welcomed the large crowd that consisted of board members, Celebration staff, part-time workers and local officials...
TWHBEA switches to DNA testing (11/06/06)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association has announced that the parentage verification program for Tennessee Walking Horse registrations will be converted from blood typing to DNA beginning Jan. 1, 2007. The TWHBEA will be running 17 micro satellite DNA markers recognized as the standard equine parentage panel by the International Society for Animal Genetics.  The conversion is being directed by Kathy Zeis, TWHBEA executive committee vice president of breeders...
TWHBEA cancels Invitational (10/17/06)
Citing lack of industry support as the reason for the cancellation, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) Executive Committee voted Monday by conference call to discontinue plans for the first efforts of the TWHBEA Invitational Horse Show...
Webb, Derickson take International honors (10/02/06)
Forty-nine classes were filled with competition during the 28th annual International Grand Championship horse show held in Murfreesboro this past weekend. Hosted by the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA), the show, according to Tommy Hall, show chairman, was a resounding success...
WHOA backs Celebration as World Grand Championship (09/30/06)
With much the same rhetoric as the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA), the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) Board of Directors unanimously voted Thursday to claim the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration as the official home of the World Grand Champion...
Trainers won't recognize TWHBEA show (09/28/06)
An umbrella in the storm falling on the Walking Horse industry was raised today as the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) Board of Directors released a letter unanimously recognizing the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration as the only event to officially crown the industry's World Grand Champion...
TWHBEA reacts to horse industry divisions (09/26/06)
Like the rolling currents of the ocean, the tides continue to pommel the Walking Horse industry. The waves rolling to the shore, however, are not just the hand of outside forces but from within the industry itself. In an all-day meeting Monday, the executive committee of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) in Lewisburg, headquarters of the breed registry, fired Executive Director Charles Hulsey for inappropriate registration policies and personnel actions only moments after voting to proceed with their plans for the November horse show to crown a 2006 World Grand Champion. ...
Dry summer leads to hay shortage (09/25/06)
A shortage of hay is anticipated in Bedford and surrounding counties, according to the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service here, and cattlemen are concerned hay prices will increase. "The hay crop and pasture have suffered a lot," John Teague, the agricultural extension service agent, said today when asked about the harvest since autumn began Saturday night with rain that postponed a 4-H horse show...
TWHBEA proclaims show as Invitational (09/23/06)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) announced Friday the name of its upcoming fall event to crown the 2006 World Grand Champion. The Tennessee Walking Horse Invitational will be held at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro on Nov. 24-25...
Both sides in lawsuit want summary judgement (09/22/06)
Both sides in a $1.25 million lawsuit by a horse show contestant against the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Association want a judge to rule that they won the case without a trial. While summary judgment requests aren't unusual, it's not every day that a civil complaint has a companion criminal case such as this one in which a jury found Alecia Cooper guilty of misdemeanors with the judge sentencing her to 48 hours of unsupervised probation...
TWHBEA plans championship (09/22/06)
Plans are underway today at the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) in Lewisburg to crown a 2006 World Grand Champion. According to a statement released Thursday, officials of the TWHBEA are preparing to host a show that will give the industry a World Grand Champion to represent the breed. The "Tennessee Walking Horse Invitational" will be held during the Thanksgiving weekend, Nov. 24-25, at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro...
Election commission won't act against Walden (09/21/06)
NASHVILLE (AP) -- The State Election Commission took no action against Hamilton County Election Commissioner Mike Walden over his offer of money to get competitors to withdraw from the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Walden was suspended from participating in the show for two years after he offered other trainers $10,000 to withdraw from the grand champion competition on Sept. 2 in Shelbyville...
International show will go on (09/21/06)
Though the dust has yet to settle over the final events of this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the contenders of the International Grand Championship Walking Horse Show are ready to mount and ride for the crowning of the 28th International Grand Champion...
World Grand Champion contender dies (09/21/06)
MG Above the Rest, a contender for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration World Grand Champion with Allen Abee aboard has died at the University of Tennessee Veterinary Hospital due to complications following surgery for colic-like symptoms...
Trainers form advisory committee (09/20/06)
Wink Groover of Longview, Texas, Leigh Bennett of Alvaton, Ky., Link Webb of Lewisburg, Justin Jenne of Shelbyville and Mack Motes of Eagleville were selected by the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) to serve on a newly created Advisory Committee...
Walden sues anonymous e-mailer (09/19/06)
The Chattanoogan reported last week on its web site that Mike Walden, co-owner of one of the horses disqualified from this year's World Grand Championship at the Celebration, has filed a lawsuit against an unknown person claiming that an e-mail circulated about him was defamatory...
Strong action needed to change perception of horses, city (09/12/06)
Are walking horse trainers heartless scoundrels who go to any lengths to give that extra kick to their high-stepping horses? Reputable trainers are outraged at the charges being made against their industry, but like it or not they must face the fact that they and walking horse owners are going to have to take some giant steps in damage control...
Strong actions needed to repair perceptions (09/09/06)
Are walking horse trainers heartless scoundrels who go to any lengths to give that extra kick to their high-stepping horses? Reputable trainers are outraged at the charges being made against their industry, but like it or not they must face the fact that they and walking horse owners are going to have to take some giant steps in damage control...
Horse slaughter bill allows inspections (09/09/06)
Federal legislation for a 10-fold increase in funding to inspect horses was approved by the House of Representatives on Thursday when most of the attention was on the bills ban on slaughtering horses for human consumption. And while the bill would increase inspection of horses being trailered to slaughter houses, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon (D-Murfreesboro) explained how that would affect owners and trainers of Tennessee Walking Horses and where they compete...
Frist asks USDA to study soring definitiion (09/09/06)
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist of Tennessee and U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-Georgia) have written to an undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture asking the department to study the National Horse Protection Society's proposal to clarify the definition of soring in the Horse Protection Act (HPA)...
Original TWHNC exhibitor wants show preserved (09/08/06)
On Sept. 1, the Celebration honored 12 surviving exhibitors from the original show in 1939. The Celebration staff could track down only 14 such exhibitors, two of whom were unable to attend. The next night, a conflict over inspection procedures left the show without a World Grand Champion for the first time in its 68-year history. Mildred Bobo, one of those 1939 exhibitors who was honored Friday night, is alarmed by what she sees as a crisis threatening the event...
No panic yet over TWH crisis (09/08/06)
Although community leaders are following the crisis in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry with some interest, they say there's no sense of panic and no indication that the uncertainty is having any major impact on local business. "I think it's too early to tell at the present time," said Walt Wood, executive director of Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce...
Owner suspended over cash offer (09/08/06)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration board of directors met via conference call on Thursday afternoon to specifically look at two issues stemming from Saturday night's World Grand Championship class. The first issue involves the acknowledged offer by Hamilton County Election Commissioner Mike Walden to pay each of the three approved entries for the World Grand Championship class $10,000...
Calluses aren't scars, says Derickson (09/07/06)
Ballet dancers, marathon runners, baseball players: all athletes who compete in healthy bodies of great endurance. Compared to professionally trained Tennessee Walking Horses, these athletes, according Shelbyville trainer Herbert Derickson, all have one thing in common: proof of their training work called calluses...
Cancellation was a shock to Webb (09/07/06)
Shelbyville native and 2005 Walking Horse Trainer of the Year Link Webb is still in shock regarding the action taken by the Celebration on Saturday night, canceling the World Grand Championship competition. "I was shocked. Totally shocked," he said Wednesday from his Lewisburg location. "We were sitting in the warm-up ring watching them drag the track (Celebration show arena) on the screen there and then the crowd was leaving."...
Trainers try public relations (09/06/06)
The dust may have settled in the arena and around the show grounds, but the questions raised by the controversy at the National Celebration that drew to a close on Saturday night minus the naming of a World Grand Champion have not. The inspections of contenders for the coveted title, and the resulting elimination of several of them due to infractions of the Horse Protection Act (HPA) Scar Rule, brought the 68th annual event to a close amid rising questions from spectators, owners and trainers alike as to where the industry should go next.. ...
Horse slaughter bill in Congress (09/06/06)
Legislation to keep horses from being taken to slaughter houses where they would be butchered for human consumption is set for a congressional vote on Thursday. House Bill 503 would also increase funding for the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service from $500,000 to $5 million, and permit APHIS to stop horses being transported so they may be inspected...
Trainers of approved horses wanted to compete (09/05/06)
The cancellation of Saturday night's World Grand Championship at the Celebration did not take place in the manner originally announced to the crowd; in fact, trainers who passed inspection in the class have been quoted as saying that they wanted to compete and would have competed in the final class if it had been held...
Horsing around with Congress (09/04/06)
There's a bill in Congress that reminds me of something that happened years ago at the family dining room table. Dad had Mom on a household budget with so much allocated for groceries. This was when the family car had to be big enough for five men to fit in the car so they could carpool with one man driving each day of the week...
Corker likes campaign's progress (09/03/06)
Former Chattanooga mayor Bob Corker, visiting the Celebration on Friday, said he believes his candidate for the U.S. Senate is going well. "It's outstanding," said Corker. "I love the energy of it." Corker, the Republican nominee, faces Democratic nominee U.S. Rep. Harold Ford Jr., whom he called "the most liberal member of the Tennessee delegation." He said his philosophical differences with Ford, and his background and experience, make him the best choice for the job...
TWHNC ends with no champion (09/02/06)
For the first time ever, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration ended without crowning a World Grand Champion. Seven of the 10 horses scheduled to participate in Saturday evening's final class were turned away by inspectors, and the remaining trainers declined to participate, effectively canceling the class....
Gen On The Run takes 3-Year-Old honors (09/01/06)
Justin Harris and Gen On The Run took the Three-Year-Old World Grand Championship at Thursday evening's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, following up on the Two-Year-Old World Grand Championship the horse earned last year. Gen is owned by Michael Hart of Corbin, Ky., and Beech Grove...
Father-in-law, son-in-law to face off (09/01/06)
History will take place Saturday night at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in the World Grand Championship Stake class. The competition will pit two well-known names in the industry, who happen to be father-in-law and son-in-law. Last Saturday night's stallion preliminary winners were Master of Jazz with Jimmy McConnell and Private Charter ridden by McConnell's father-in-law, Knox Blackburn...
Issues around 'horse show' draw scrutiny (09/01/06)
The controversy surrounding the alleged condition of several horses at last Friday night's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has brought a long-festering issue to a head. For a lot of Bedford countians, the "horse show," as most of us call it, is familiar yet somewhat mysterious...
Title classes start tonight (08/31/06)
The final night of preliminary classes was held Wednesday at the 68th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Fans were greeted with a 15-class schedule, including three classes made up from Friday night's postponed schedule. U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon was among the VIP visitors Wednesday night...
Owner-amateur classes dominate (08/30/06)
Owner-amateur classes dominated the action at Tuesday night's session of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Paid attendance was 22,728, with actual attendance at 10,674, which announcer Chip Walters called the second-largest Tuesday night crowd in Celebration history. Special guests included U.S. Rep. Harold Ford Jr. (see related story) and Middle Tennessee State University president Dr. Sidney McPhee...
Ford visits TWHNC crowd (08/30/06)
U.S. Rep. Harold Ford Jr. of Memphis, the Democratic nominee for a U.S. Senate seat, attended the Celebration Tuesday, where he was introduced by announcer Chip Walters as "one of the reasons we're having a horse show tonight." Ford had originally been scheduled to present a class award on Friday night, and was on his way to the Celebration grounds just as a dispute between trainers and the U.S. Department of Agriculture shut down Friday night's show...
Younger, smaller horses yield big excitement (08/29/06)
Younger horses -- in the 2, 3 and 4-year-old divisions -- and smaller horses -- in the under 15.2 hands division -- still provided big action at Monday night's session of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Paid attendance was 22,369, with actual attendance at 9,518. ...
Patience pays for Popp (08/29/06)
Sometimes you have to ride a lot of frogs before you find the right horse. Such has been the case for Jessica Popp of Bell Buckle who rode eight or nine horses before her grandfather, Bobby Hurt, purchased her Dr. Liz earlier this month. Popp had been on the talented mare only five times, including one other appearance in the 68th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, before winning Division A of the Owner-Amateur Novice Youth 6-11 on Novice Mares or Geldings Sunday night. ...
Four-year-olds take TWHNC spotlight (08/28/06)
The Four-Year-Old Walking Stallions and Aged Mares were tops in the show ring on Sunday night in Shelbyville at the 68th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. The Four-Year-Old Stallion class was loaded with talent once again. It's Only A Game and Chad Baucom turned in a stirring performance and captured the decision. Star and Jackie McConnell were second while America Online and Larry Edwards captured third...
Owners told lawsuit may bring change (08/26/06)
Attorney David Broderick of Bowling Green, Ky., told Tennessee Walking Horse owners on Saturday afternoon that a lawsuit filed earlier this summer is seeking clarification of the enforcement of the Horse Protection Act and could provide some long-term answers to the dispute between the industry and U.S. Department of Agriculture regulators...
Trainers stand up to USDA over inspections (08/26/06)
There were horses showing at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds Saturday morning, but they had nothing to do with the show. The Champions Arena, adjacent to Calsonic Arena and the inspection area for horses, was filled with horses performing for youngsters competing in the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitor's Association's Youth Day judging contest...
Winners feel excitement of Celebration (08/25/06)
The excitement of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration isn't just for the people in the stands. At least two winners in Thursday night's classes respond to all of the hoopla surrounding the Celebration in a special way. JFK's Monopoly, ridden and owned by William Johnson of Atlanta and Shelbyville, and trained locally by Mickey McCormick, took top honors in the Elite Owner-Amateur Riders on Walking Stallions class...
BREAKING NEWS: TWHNC reschedules classes (08/25/06)
Futurity proves to be a night of firsts (08/24/06)
It was a night of firsts in more ways than one for several competitors in the 68th annual Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association Futurity. Fans at Calsonic Arena Wednesday got a good look at the future of the breed as weanlings through 3-year-olds competed in 15 classes...
Lowman inducted into new museum (08/24/06)
Larry L. Lowman of Shelbyville recently became the first honoree into the Opryland Hotel's new Tennessee Walking Horse Museum in Nashville. Lowman became the second person ever to receive Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' & Exhibitors' Association's Performance Ambassador of the Year Award in 2002. He is now serving his ninth term as Tennessee director for the TWHBEA and his fifth term as vice president of marketing on the TWHBEA Executive Committee...
Rising stars step out in futurity (08/23/06)
The richest one-day event in the walking horse industry -- the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association National Futurity -- will kick off 11 days of competition that bring together the best in the walking horse world to compete for numerous honors at both the National Futurity and the other classes at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration...
Celebration fever heats up in Shelbyville (08/19/06)
In NASCAR it's 'Start your engines;' the Olympics say 'Let the games begin'; but in Shelbyville in late August, the saying is 'let your horses walk on.' It's that time again when the 68th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration begins its 11-day run on Wednesday and ends Saturday night, Sept. 2 when the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse will be crowned. More than 20 other World Champions will be named before fans from more than 40 states and overseas...
Inspectors' presence affects centennial show (08/07/06)
WARTRACE -- The 100th anniversary edition of the Wartrace Horse Show had plenty of pageantry, and plenty of spectators, befitting its special milestone, but the presence of U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors scared away some trainers, leaving many classes with only a handful of equine competitors...
Flags will wave during TWHNC (07/31/06)
American flags will be posted first around Shelbyville's public square and then along Lane Parkway in recognition of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration starting late next month. Under the leadership of its new chairman, James Ray Arnold Sr., commander of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 43, the United Veterans Council of Bedford County last Tuesday unanimously voted for the patriotic display...
Larry Eugene Webb (07/31/06)
Memorial services for Larry Eugene Webb, 61, of Lewisburg, who died this morning at his home after an extended illness, will be 5 p.m. Wednesday at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel. The Rev. Steve Murphree will officiate.
County fair continues (07/27/06)
The 2006 Bedford County Fair is in progress through Saturday at the Bedford County Agriculture Center. The schedule for today and Friday: TODAY -- 7 p.m., home ec/ag exhibit open; 6 p.m., Bedford County Idol, Smoker Truck & Tractor Pull registration, Open Beef Show; 6:30 p.m., bicycle competition; 7 p.m., Smoker Truck & Tractor Pull; 5:30-7:30 p.m., Snowbird...
TWHBEA Equitation Challenge (07/10/06)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) Equitation Challenge Horse Show will be held Thursday at 7 p.m. at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center. Judy Martin Hess, a gospel singer who is part of the trio The Martins, will perform. The Martins have performed nationwide, including for President and Mrs. Bush, and have won eight Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association...
It's mule show time in Shelbyville (07/06/06)
The 15th annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show began this morning and continues through Saturday on the Celebration grounds. Showtimes are 2 and 7 p.m. today, 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday. A mule sale will be held 9 a.m. Saturday...
Records show trainer entered show while suspended (06/28/06)
A walking horse owner and her trainer sought protection from federal prosecution on soring charges under an industry agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but that defense was damaged Tuesday when evidence indicated that the trainer entered the same horse in a show while he was suspended by the National Walking Horse Commission...
Fun Show called a success (05/30/06)
The 36th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show will go down as a successful event from just about every angle, according to show officials. The spring showcase for the Tennessee Walking Horse showed increases in entries and attendance over the same event last year...
Friday night Fun Show recap (05/27/06)
Riding the crest of a strong opening night, the 36th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show picked up where it left off on Friday night. Seventeen young riders answered the gate call in the Owner's Amateur Youth Riders 12-17 Years on Walking Mares or Geldings. ...
Fun Show resumes traditional format (05/26/06)
A return to the traditional format appears to be a success as the 36th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show opened on Thursday night in Calsonic Arena. Last year, show managers had tried a new approach which grouped different types of classes on specific nights of the show. That proved unpopular, so the show returned to a traditional, more-balanced schedule this year...
Horse show season opens on strong note (05/25/06)
Show season is underway. Tonight's Fun Show kickoff brings Tennessee Walking Horse exhibitors and fans to Shelbyville for this season's second long weekend of competition and horse sales. Despite some differences between breed-governing groups, owners, trainers, show management and fans are optimistic, not only about the weekend but about where the walking horse industry stands...
Horse sales will continue at Sand Creek Farm (05/23/06)
Horse sales at Sand Creek Farm like those scheduled this Fun Show weekend will continue after the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration this summer because they're conducted by Sand Creek Sales Inc. Owned by Robert F. Kilgore and Neal A. Holland Jr., instead of Billy Gray, Sand Creek Sales is unaffected by an administrative law court judge's order issued last month against Gray and the farm property he sold, although Gray continues to control the dormant business named Sand Creek Farm Inc.. ...
Fun Show returns to traditional schedule (05/20/06)
The 36th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show will return to its traditional schedule of classes when the show opens a three-night run on Thursday at Calsonic Arena. One of the most important spring shows in the walking horse industry, the Fun Show has been a springboard toward the World Grand Championship for many of the top horses of the breed...
Gray, Sand Creek suspended over alleged soring (05/20/06)
A Shelbyville horse farm and its president, who's a member of the Tennessee Walking Horse Hall of Fame, have paid civil penalties and accepted suspensions from their business as a result of federal allegations of soring. A related case that was set to be heard by an administrative law judge in Nashville this week has been rescheduled in Shelbyville during two weeks in January and two weeks in March, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture...
Horse show judge suspended after arrest (05/18/06)
A National Horse Show Commission official has suspended one of more than 200 horse show judges as a result of his arrest on two charges of indecent exposure at different times to motel housekeeping staffers, according to the NHSC's executive vice president...
Exhibition horse show suggested at Wartrace (05/17/06)
Wartrace voted Tuesday to coordinate with civic organizations with the idea of a trip back into time. Jerry Harris, the host of "What a Horse," broadcast on Charter Cable Channel Six, presented the idea of an exhibition horse show in the center of town where the tradition began 100 years ago...
Celebration, city donate $25K to trainers' show (05/09/06)
The industry that has made the city of Shelbyville known worldwide as the "Walking Horse Capital of the World" announced that the City of Shelbyville has shown its support for the recently-completed Trainers' Show in a big way. Walking Horse Trainers' Association Executive Director Billy Thomas was on the Celebration Grounds recently to accept a sponsorship check for $25,000 from The Celebration and the City of Shelbyville for their sponsorship of the event...
SSHBEA Spring Show (05/03/06)
It's that time again! The 21st Annual Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Spring Show kicks off Thursday and will be running through Saturday night, starting each evening at 6:30 at Calsonic Arena. Tickets are available at the door with admission set at $5 with children 6 and under admitted free...
Paso Finos are a family affair (04/28/06)
Su Casa Ranch, tucked up in the hills outside of Wartrace and Bell Buckle next to the Coffee County line, is home to 30 horses of the Paso Fino breed which will be shown this weekend at Calsonic Arena. The ranch's owners, L.R. and Moria Judas Smith, are both instructors at The Webb School. Moria is heavily involved with the Tennessee Valley Paso Fino Horse Association, serving as vice-president...
SSHBEA Sport Horse Roundup this weekend (04/19/06)
The Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association (SSHBEA) is holding the 10th Annual Sport Horse Roundup, formerly called the Winter Games, at Calsonic Arena on Friday and Saturday. Friday's happenings kick off at 5 p.m. with Saturday's start at 9 a.m...
Artificial insemination rules near approval (04/06/06)
Artificial insemination of horses in Tennessee won't require a veterinarian's supervision after an act of the state Legislature is signed by Gov. Phil Bredesen later this month, according to Bedford County's delegation to the General Assembly. Identical bills have been approved by the House and Senate, according to state Sen. Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville) who on Wednesday said the act "should be ready" for Gov. Phil Bredesen's signature at "any time," so it could become law next week...
Celebration statement on NHPS (03/28/06)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Board of Directors has released the following statement regarding the National Horse Protection Society: "The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration supports the efforts of the National Horse Protection Society and endorses its current Mission Statement regarding the Tennessee Walking Horse Advisory Committee...
Insemination fix possible by April 1 (03/08/06)
NASHVILLE -- Artificial insemination of a Tennessee Walking Horse at a breeding barn on behalf of the horse's owner -- without an attending veterinarian -- could be legal by April Fool's Day. That's possible without unforeseen delays, according to state Rep. Curt Cobb (D-Shelbyville) who spoke after a House Agriculture Committee meeting on Tuesday when the panel considered mad cow disease and milk quality...
Artificial insemination issue is being addressed (03/06/06)
Shelbyville's delegation to the General Assembly is sponsoring legislation that solves a big portion of the horse industry's problem with the state Health Department's interpretation of laws on artificial insemination. The proposed law "designates artificial insemination of livestock as an accepted livestock management practice rather than veterinary medical service," according to Democratic Rep. Curt Cobb and Republican Sen. Jim Tracy...
Champion horse at center of lawsuit (03/04/06)
The late RPM, World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, is at the center of controversy in a complaint filed in Bedford County Circuit Court on Thursday. The plaintiff, Jaclyn Smith-Tillman, and her attorneys, Terry, Terry & Stapleton and Wilkerson, Gauldin, Hayes & Jenkins filed a complaint consisting of seven counts against William R. ...
The alpacas are coming (03/01/06)
No, it isn't a cross between a giraffe and a sheep. They're called alpacas -- a breed of South American camel related to the llama -- and there will be plenty of opportunity to see them when the 5th Annual Southern Select Alpaca Show gets underway Saturday and Sunday at Calsonic Arena...
Only vets are to do horse inseminations (02/20/06)
The Tennessee Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners voted 3-2 last week to uphold its rules on artificial insemination practices that must be performed by a state licensed vet, thereby denying petitions from a Shelbyville businesswoman and several horse trainers and breeders...
Lawmakers consider walking horse issues (02/15/06)
Threats to the walking horse industry from Tennessee regulation and other states' incentives were revealed Tuesday during an information gathering session of the state House Agriculture Committee. For years, horse breeders have been artificially inseminating mares with the advice of a veterinarian, but some of those farm management practices have been seen by regulators as procedures to be performed only by veterinarians...
USDA listens to horse industry (02/11/06)
Chamber honors four at annual meeting (02/07/06)
"Your presence reflects your interest and involvement in the community," Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce president-elect Ronda Helton said in her welcoming address at Monday night's annual membership meeting and awards banquet. With "Celebrating 58 Years of Community Leadership" as this year's theme, the highlight of the night was the presentation of awards. ...
Nationally-known 'horse whisperer' to be here (01/26/06)
For Josh Lyons, training horses is all about the power of trust, and the nationally and internationally acclaimed horse whisperer will be demonstrating that power this weekend at Calsonic Arena during the "Weekend With the Pros." Lyons is the son of John Lyons, one of the most respected horse trainers in the world. The elder Lyons has traveled all over the globe helping train and retrain both people and their horses...
TWHNC answers lawsuit (01/10/06)
A Wilson County woman's lawsuit against the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration was answered Friday. The Celebration's response said substantially the same thing as arrest warrants against the woman, who wants $1.25 million in compensatory and punitive damages, according to public records...
Animal control sells abandoned donkey (01/05/06)
Bedford County has sold the wayward donkey its animal control office took into custody at Unionville and held for three weeks in a corral just south of Lane Parkway. "I calculated our expenses and I think we made about $15 on the sale," said Bedford County Animal Control Director Michael Gregory who captured the donkey with help from a veterinarian, the U-T extension agent and others...
Breeders may break from commission (12/10/05)
One of the three associations that created the National Horse Show Commission has given notice that it doesn't want to renew its contract as written, according to leaders of several horse industry groups. The commission that plays a crucial role in Tennessee Walking Horse shows can continue with only two members and may well resume with three, in part because "intense negotiations" are being conducted between the associations, industry leaders explained late last week...
'A Noel Nighty Night' returns (12/01/05)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is proud to announce a holiday gift back to its hometown. For the second year in a row, The Celebration will present award-winning performer Diana Rae and her all-original Christmas Concert and Storytelling, "A Noel Nighty Night" on Sunday, December 11 at 4:00 p.m. at The Fly Arts Center...
Instant replay possible for horse show judging (11/17/05)
Digital depictions of how horses move were displayed this week at Calsonic Arena by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture in a presentation that implies instant replays are possible for Tennessee Walking Horse competition. "But we're a long, long time away from turning over judging to a machine," said Professor Warren Gill of UT's Animal Science Department at the Ellington Agriculture Center in Nashville. "We still enjoy the discussion that goes on in the stands."...
TWHNC holds appreciation banquet (11/16/05)
As a "celebration of the Celebration," the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Board of Directors recognized full-time and seasonal employees of the 68th Annual Celebration with an appreciation banquet Tuesday evening at Blue Ribbon Circle...
Settlement reached in dispute over horse (11/08/05)
Two civil complaints over the lineage of a horse were settled just days before jury selection was to have started Monday morning. Bedford County Circuit Court Judge Lee Russell was informed late Saturday morning that the complaints -- which sought up to $200,000 in compensatory damages -- had been settled...
Dead pony leads to dispute (11/02/05)
A Bedford County woman's pony died Friday and while she says she believes it's a result of her neighbor's dogs, the neighbors say they don't believe that, adding that coyote are probably responsible for the pony's death. Bedford County Animal Control Director Michael Gregory declined to make a statement one way or the other on whether the dogs killed the pony. He wasn't there and he said he doesn't know what kind of animal would attack and bite at a pony's snout...
Street on TWHNC grounds named for Main Power (11/01/05)
The World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse is honored each year by having a street at the Historic Celebration Grounds named in his honor. The sign bearing the name "Main Power Way" went up last week. All of the streets on the grounds are named for individuals or horses of historic significance in the history of the world championship horse show...
Horsemanship seminar this weekend (10/24/05)
With horses being such a huge pastime and business in this area, getting along with the majestic animals is essential. An upcoming two-day program at Calsonic Arena will help equine enthusiasts form relationships with their horses, so that they are not just an animal, but a friend...
Designed by Fine Art takes SSHBEA crown (10/03/05)
Designed By Fine Art was the open World Grand Champion named in Calsonic Arena on Saturday night at the conclusion of the 21st Annual Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association, according to the association's director of judges. The stallion "has a real good stride behind and an excellent front end," said Bob Wright, director of judges for SSHBEA and first vice president of the association, who explained, "He takes a real long stride with his hind legs and there was a good, high lick.. ...
SSHBEA show reflects growth (10/01/05)
The 21st Annual Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Grand Championship came to a close Saturday night in Calsonic Arena, where an enthusiastic crowd reflected growth in this part of the equine industry. "And with the growth, we've had a big increase of out-of-state people carrying away ribbons," said Bob Wright of Murfreesboro, director of judges for SSHBEA and first vice president of the association. "Next year, it will be an even bigger show."...
SSHBEA show moves toward championships (09/30/05)
Federal horse inspectors are expected tonight and tomorrow night for the last days of the 21st Annual Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association World Grand Championship in Calsonic Arena. "I expect them [tonight] because they've never missed," said Danny Ray Davis of Unionville, director of the Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) for SSHBEA, a program that provides inspectors who help the U.S. Department of Agriculture...
SSHBEA class split into two divisions (09/27/05)
So many horses were entered in one of the classes being shown last night at the 21st Annual Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association World Grand Championship in Calsonic Arena that SSHBEA officials had to split them in two groups. "Now listen closely," Show Announcer Arlie Weddington of Shelbyville told the audience and participants at about 7:05 p.m. as SSHBEA Executive Secretary Janice Prince of Wartrace scrambled to deal with the paperwork....
SSHBEA president seeks re-election (09/26/05)
About 3,000 people and 900 horses travel to Shelbyville for the annual Spotted Saddle Horse Exhibitors' and Breeders' Association show, according to the association's president. Now serving in his second term, SSHEBA president Travis Kelley says those 900 horses translate into 1,400 to 1,500 entries for the show culminating on Oct. 1 in the Calsonic Arena on the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Grounds...
SSHBEA shows have positive impact (09/24/05)
The economic benefit for Bedford County from three annual Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association shows -- and the biggest of them starts tomorrow night -- is greater than $7 million, according to calculations reported by The Celebration's CEO to the group's chairman...
Moon Pie fest among state's "must-see" experiences (09/24/05)
FRANKLIN -- Gov. Phil Bredesen has asked his department commissioners to name 20 things people need to do in Tennessee before they die, and typical tourist attractions don't count. Those other things include attending the RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival in Bell Buckle, according to Dianne Murray, a volunteer with Tennessee's Backroads Heritage who attended the governor's tourism conference Friday...
European tourists sought for Backroads area (09/12/05)
Officials from the U.S. Departments of State and Commerce are working together to promote tourism in Bedford and its neighboring counties by Europeans, according to a Commerce Department official in Shelbyville on Saturday. "I'm mainly working with my colleagues in London," said Ericka Stevens, an international trade specialist who attended Tennessee's Backroads Heritage Barbecue Dinner Saturday at the Blue Ribbon Circle on the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Grounds...
Y'all come back now .... (09/11/05)
Some of the nicest people you'd ever want to meet have left town last week, but they'll be back, most of them, in at least a year. Several of them were met at restaurants here where some were oh so obviously from out of town like David Boles, a Union, Ky., homebuilder sporting a free ball cap and a University of Kentucky shirt...
Main Power is World Grand Champion (09/04/05)
Main Power was crowned World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse Saturday night to conclude the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. The 6-year-old stallion, ridden by Joe Cotten, is owned by Holland, King & Kilgore of Decatur, Arab and Tuscaloosa, Ala...
Jose's Intimidator takes Friday blue (09/03/05)
Jose's Intimidator capped off Friday evening's Celebration performance with a win in the Four-Year-Old World Grand Championship, often referred to as the Junior World Grand Championship or the Junior Stake. The horse, a unanimous selection of the judges, was ridden by Jamie Bradshaw for Randall & Martha Ferguson of Union Grove, Ala...
PGA takes 3-Year-Old title (09/02/05)
The 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration kicked into championship gear Thursday night, with winners riding under the spotlight and classes being called by trumpeter Vern Serex, leading up to a win by PGA in the Three Year Old World Grand Championship...
Preliminary classes end; Wednesday attendance record set (09/01/05)
Eight days and nights of preliminary classes came to a close on Wednesday night at the Celebration Grounds, setting the stage for a three night run through the championship classes culminating with the crowning of the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse on Saturday night...
Franklin buys historic horse farm (09/01/05)
The executive director of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association has been consulted by a Franklin official who's researching the history of a walking horse farm purchased by her city for $8 million. "We think it's great for the walking horse industry," said Charles Hulsey of Cullman, Ala., executive director of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitor's Association who was interviewed by Anna Shuford, program coordinator for the Parks and Recreation Department in Franklin.. ...
Storms affect civic club food sales (08/31/05)
Unless the horse show crowd is really hungry and only buys food at the Celebration Grounds from Bedford County service clubs, tens of thousands of dollars might not be available for charitable and community causes. The calculation is an easy extrapolation from officials at only a few of the concession stands at the outdoor arena on Monday night when the only figures that were available were from sales on Sunday night, the first day that bad weather struck...
Owner-amateurs highlight Tuesday night program (08/31/05)
Owner-Amateur Riders make up about 80 percent of all entries at The Celebration and on Tuesday night they took center stage with nine of 12 classes on the program featuring amateurs. However, the first ones to walk away with the gold on this Tuesday night of The 67th Annual Celebration were John Allan Callaway and Neon Bright in the Four-Year-Old Walking Mares (Canter) class...
Walking horse TV show to be aired nationally (08/31/05)
Tennessee's walking horses are a topic familiar to most people in this area, but a television show that began on local cable could reach a nationwide audience soon. "What a Horse" is featured on Charter Cable Channel 6 and covers the walking horse world -- one that many folks are unaware of outside of Bedford County. But the show isn't available just here; now it is available in over 2 million homes in Tennessee and may be made available to 32 million more homes...
Rise of the young stallions (08/30/05)
The Two-Year-Old Stallions class at the Celebration has become so popular and full of entries that it had to be split into three divisions. The young horses, in their first year under saddle, have always drawn attention. That's no different this year at the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration...
Three take advantage of Red Cross shelter (08/30/05)
An American Red Cross emergency shelter at Thomas School housed three people Tuesday night because of the tropical storm here following Hurricane Katrina's rampage on the Gulf Coast. And Gov. Phil Bredesen remained in Nashville, monitoring Katrina's impact on the state with the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency as the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration continued with day and evening classes for the annual show...
Aged Stallion classes pave the way for championship (08/29/05)
The Aged Stallion classes, featuring many of the top contenders for the Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Championship took to the Celebration oval on Saturday night while the Four-Year-Old Walking Stallions and Aged Mares were tops in the showring on Sunday night at the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration...
Katrina takes aim at TWHNC (08/29/05)
Tents on high ground were one suggestion for those who rented barns on low land at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, officials and tenants said at the show grounds in anticipation of the arrival of remnants of Hurricane Katrina today...
Celebration statement on hurricane preparations (08/29/05)
The following statement was issued this afternoon by the Celebration: -- The Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration is working with local and state emergency management officials to prepare for the heavy rains and high winds expected when the remnants of Hurricane Katrina come through the area overnight Monday night and into Tuesday...
Three-year-old stallions thrill TWHNC crowd (08/27/05)
The Three-Year-Old Stallion classes dominated competition at the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration on Friday night. One of the largest Friday night crowds in Celebration history was on hand to see the action. A total of 13,791 witnessed an 18-class performance...
Governor will attend TWHNC on Monday (08/27/05)
Gov. Phil Bredesen is scheduled to attend the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration on Monday evening when he will present awards for several classes of winners. "Most of the time, the governor is here on the final night," TWHNC spokesman Chip Walters said Saturday morning. "We work around his schedule. He was out of the state last year, but the governor is a big supporter of the Celebration and we like to have him here."...
Katrina an unwelcome TWHNC visitor (08/27/05)
Remnants of Hurricane Katrina will bring two inches of rain to Shelbyville between noon Monday and sunset Tuesday, a National Weather Service meteorologist has predicted. However, the show will go on at the outdoor arena on the historic, 106-acre Celebration Grounds, according to Chip Walters, spokesman for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Inc...
Thursday TWHNC wrapup (08/26/05)
Thursday marked the opening night performance of the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. An opening-night record crowd of 12,101 was on hand for a 17-class session, show officials said. Rachel Hyneman claimed the first blue ribbon of the night when she took Pusher's Special Design to the Blue Ribbon Circle in the Owner-Amateur Riders on Mares, Youth Riders 6-11. ...
Walking horse breed has changed over the years (08/26/05)
A Tennessee Walking Horse Hall of Fame member's career provides an example of how genetics changed the breed and he explains it by making a distinction between the number of horses he rode to win three world grand championships. "Some riders won four, but not with the same horse," said Billy Gray who's one of four men to have won three grand championships on three different horses. "That shows the quality of the horses have gotten better over the years."...
It's not C-SPAN, it's NEIGH-SPAN (08/25/05)
Tennessee Walking Horse owners, trainers and riders have a service similar to what senators and congressmen have -- live television showing them what's going on in their arena. Call it the loudspeaker of the 21st Century. This way they know when they need their horses ready," says William D. Anderson of WDA International, the video productions company based in Nashville that has wired every barn on the Celebration grounds...
German horses to appear at Celebration (08/24/05)
Partners from a walking horse stable in Germany have brought two geldings and a stallion to Shelbyville for the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration that starts today. And they have good things to say about the USDA. A requirement to have a veterinarian from the U.S. Department of Agriculture constantly monitor their stallion was waived because their walking horses are being kept by a local vet...
TWHNC has major economic impact (08/23/05)
Shelbyville becomes "Celebration City" once again this week as the 67th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration starts Wednesday morning even though horses, owners, trainers, riders and pets have been gathering for more than a week before the 11-day event officially begins...
Futurity scheduled Wednesday (08/23/05)
The 67th annual Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association's National Futurity is scheduled for Wednesday evening at Calsonic Arena. One of this year's highlights will be the exhibition of some of the industry's leading breeding stallions. ...
TWHNC contenders meet in Spring Hill (08/22/05)
SPRING HILL -- With 184 entries -- 44 more than last year -- the Spring Hill Lions Club Horse Show attracted about 750 people, earned the club nearly $4,500 and was deemed a success, according to its show manager. As the last show before the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration starting this week in Shelbyville, the charity show is an opportunity for owners, trainers and exhibitors to get experience with and for young horses headed to the biggest horse show ring...
Horse crowd spreads across Midstate (08/16/05)
With about a week to go before the first events associated with the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the horse crowd is back and roaming Middle Tennessee's horse shows leading up to the celebration here. Leslie Topham of Lehi, Utah, about 20 miles south of Salt Lake, is among the many who travel from far away to Shelbyville after having become enamored with this special breed of horse. And for Topham, the introduction was unexpected...
Show previews Celebration prospects (08/16/05)
A larger general public audience for walking horses shortly before the National Celebration here is a by-product of moving the Nolensville Lions Club Horse Show to the Williamson County Fair last weekend, according to area officials and equestrians...
Horse inspection solutions pondered (08/09/05)
A couple of ideas surfaced during last weekend's Wartrace Horse Show on what to do about the ongoing dispute over enforcement of the Horse Protection Act. "The horse industry needs to have vets to check behind the VMOs," Show Manager Roy Ferguson said of Veterinary Medical Officers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture...
Loss of entries hurts Wartrace show in pocketbook (08/09/05)
The Wartrace Horse Show may be lucky to break even this year, officials now say. Show Manager Roy Ferguson says he was too optimistic about the financial impact of owners' and trainers' withdrawal of their horses from the show, apparently because federal horse inspectors were present...
Wartrace entries down as inspectors arrive (08/08/05)
WARTRACE -- Federal horse inspectors were working at three Tennessee Walking Horse shows last week to the dismay of many trainers and owners, some of whom just loaded up and went home. Only 62 horses were shown at Saturday night's Wartrace show, down from several hundred in a normal year, a show spokesperson said...
Wartrace Horse Show celebrates 99 years (08/03/05)
The Wartrace Horse Show will be held Saturday at 6 p.m. on Jernigan Field, drawing horse lovers from all over the country as the Celebration approaches. "This is our 99th annual show," Nancy Edwards, show coordinator, said. "Next year, we'll have a big celebration because it's our 100th show. It's the longest running one-night Walking Horse show in the country; we're the cradle of the Walking Horse."...
Approval granted for fly-over (08/02/05)
Federal approval has been received for a military aircraft flyover on the final night of this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. "We're approved by the Federal Aviation Administration and by the U.S. Air Force," said Celebration public relations director Chip Walters...
Black magic vs. ju-ju dust (07/30/05)
Everybody tried to be pleasant last week during three days of federal hearings in the Bedford County Courthouse where the U.S. Department of Agriculture was prosecuting a case against several well-known people here for alleged violation of the Horse Protection Act...
Definition of 'sore' horse in dispute (07/27/05)
Subpoenas converted into Freedom of Information Act requests and persistent protection of attorney-client privilege by a government lawyer who participates in horse protection training were revealed Tuesday at Bedford County Courthouse. "I'm not happy that my subpoenas are converted into FOI requests," said Jill S. ...
Pony show underway at Calsonic Arena (07/19/05)
Elaborate costumes for ponies and riders were displayed after midnight this morning at Calsonic Arena where Ponies of America Club officials had random blood testing of an undetermined number of ponies. "This is an international show and this to keep an even playing field," explained Dr. John Tabor, a veterinarian who works at Dr. Robert West's clinic near Bell Buckle. "We go at random. There are more than 100 classes of ponies competing."...
Look! Up in the sky! (07/15/05)
Military aircraft may be flying low over Shelbyville this summer because of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Celebration officials have asked the Tennessee Air National Guard through the state Military Department if C-130 transport planes or Blackhawk combat helicopters could fly over the show on Sept. 4...
Inspections can cost charity horse shows (07/14/05)
With the 2005 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration nearly six weeks away, and federal litigation continuing this summer on Horse Protection Act enforcement, an industry debate continues on the effect of enforcement. When inspectors from the U.S. Department of Agriculture show up at weekend horse shows, horse owners load their trailers and leave or just turn around, and that's hurt charity shows' ability to raise money if not totally shut down a show, according to horse show officials...
Great Strides show to remember Garner (07/08/05)
Organizers of the Fifth Annual Great Strides Charity Horse Show have dedicated the championship class to the memory a Greg Garner, the 16-year-old son of Helen and Bob Garner who died of leukemia in 1985. The winner of the Greg Garner Memorial Stake Class will circle the ring at the conclusion of Saturday night's show, taking place at the Bedford County Agriculture Center...
Mule & Donkey Show opens this weekend (07/05/05)
The 14th annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show will take place Thursday through Saturday at the Celebration Grounds. The show brings competitors from all over the country to Shelbyville to show their mules and donkeys. While the show consistently boasts quality entries, the competitive nature of the event is a friendly one...
Racking horse show opens today (06/16/05)
The 28th Annual Shelbyville Racking Horse Classic, a National Sweepstakes Point horse show, starts today and runs through Saturday at Calsonic Arena. A "Picnic in the Pavilion" fun night, sponsored by the Racking Horse Ladies Auxiliary and Shelbyville Classic members, will be held after Friday's performances...
Lawsuit dropped against TWHNC (06/16/05)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced Wednesday that a lawsuit brought by the family of Troy Yokley against Celebration, Inc. has been voluntarily withdrawn. Yokley was killed in a single-vehicle crash during the 2004 Celebration. The suit alleged that The Celebration was negligent in allowing Yokley to drive after being served alcohol in the Blue Ribbon Circle club...
Pony show underway (06/10/05)
Trevor Cundiff and mother, Amanda, of Newburgh, Ind., pose after winning the first blue ribbon of the Pony of the Americas Alabama Promo Show this morning at Calsonic Arena. Trevor and pony Cartago placed first in the Lead Line Costume class with the theme "Crocodile Hunter." The Tennessee and Alabama POA clubs teamed up to present three shows in one, with the Alabama Promo Show today, the Tennessee Breeding and Promotion Show on Saturday and the Tennessee Promo Show on Sunday. ...
Inspectors find 11 violations (06/01/05)
Inspectors provided by the Tennessee Walking Horse industry cited 11 horses during the 35th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show last week when there were no inspectors from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It was the first time in six consecutive Fun Shows that USDA Veterinary Medical Officers did not conduct inspections, thereby leaving horse inspections at the Fun Show to the industry's Designated Qualified Persons, officials said...
Cotten captures double Fun Show blue (05/31/05)
Brothers competed for the $2,000 High-Point Jackpot Saturday night at the 35th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show at Calsonic Arena as the professional Tennessee Walking Horse trainers accumulated points with every ribbon won. Jimmy and Jackie McConnell had each picked up 57 points, with trainer Link Webb in a close third place with 56. ...
Enforcement conflict lingers (05/31/05)
Tennessee Walking Horse owners, trainers and their corporations continue to resist litigation brought by the U.S. Department of Agriculture stemming from allegations during the 30th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show five years ago. The 35th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show concluded Saturday night in Calsonic Arena where, ironically, a horse named in one of the cases -- John F.K.'s Pusher -- won a Friday night class to the delight of its owner, Robin and Bruce MacDonald of Bridlewood Farm here and of Atlanta, Ga.. ...
Pleasure, halter classes spotlighted (05/27/05)
The 35th Annual Spring Celebration Fun Show showcased pleasure and halter classes Thursday night at Calsonic Arena, the beginning of a remodeled schedule for the show, now divided into three themed nights. The first blue ribbon was captured by The Lady of the Ritz and Marty Irby for Waterfall Farms in the Owner-Amateur English Trail Pleasure category, but Southern Serenity Ranch of Cedar Grove, the training facility of Howard Hamilton, managed to steal the show and win four blue ribbons...
Spring Fun Show opens tonight (05/26/05)
The 35th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show, beginning tonight and ending Saturday evening at Calsonic Arena, will add more "fun" this year with a $2,000 High-Point Jackpot presented the final night to the top three trainers with the most points. The jackpot, however, is not the only big change in the 2005 program...
Celebration makes $38 million impact (05/25/05)
A newly-released study commissioned by the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration reveals the world championship event provides an estimated $38 million economic impact to the regional economy. The results were announced Tuesday morning at a press conference at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, along with an announcement by the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) and Gaylord Opryland of a long-term partnership to showcase the world-famous Tennessee Walking Horse near the main entrance to Gaylord Opryland in an attempt to expose millions of Nashville tourists to the breed.. ...
Fun Show, Celebration to be streamed online (05/23/05)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announces a joint partnership with Charter Media and WdA International to provide live streaming video coverage of the 35th Annual Spring Fun Show and the 67th Annual Celebration. The project will allow fans around the world to view the two events via computer...
Author says her horse can also read (05/09/05)
Author Carole Fletcher of Ocala, Fla., who has been on tour promoting her book "Healed by Horses," visited Shelbyville on Thursday for a little personal research and to pay homage to Beautiful Jim Key. She called the Shelbyville visit a highlight of her trip...
Norton reflects on history of TWH disputes (04/10/05)
Differences between walking horse groups and the government continue, one of the attorneys involved in Horse Protection Act litigation said of the events of the past 40 years. "There has been, and to a greater or lesser degree still is, a power struggle over the government's desire to continue to enforce the Horse Protection Act," said Shelbyville attorney John Norton. "In the '60s, the walking horse industry had no regulation, and there were problems with the treatment of animals."...
Walking horse trainer is caught in the crossfire (04/10/05)
A Tennessee Walking Horse trainer in Bedford County is caught in the crossfire of a power struggle between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the walking horse industry, according to his attorney and others who last week described the trials of Tim Gray...
Main Power electrifies WHTA judges (04/04/05)
Dramatic spotlights beamed across Calsonic Arena's show ring Saturday night to start the last big event -- the Walking Horse Championship -- in the Walking Horse Trainers Association's four-day show won by Main Power. Joe Cotton rode the Holland, King, Kilgore steed in the championship event with shouts from the audience during the competition.
Brandy and Brandye work together in and out of the ring (04/01/05)
The second day of the 37th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse Trainers' Association show this week at Calsonic Arena proved again that in the spring, many young folks get together and turn their attention to horses. And with one couple it might said there's a double shot of Brandy's love for her favorite trainer as Brandy Todd of Richmond, Ky. won in her class on the stallion He's Extra Ordinary, trained by her fiancé, Brandye Mills, also of Richmond, Ky...
Trainers' show opens (03/31/05)
The 37th Annual Trainers' Show opened at Calsonic Arena last night amid shouts of enthusiasm and compliments for nearly 250 entries attracted by the Walking Horse Trainers' Association which is looking for a place to construct its first building. "They're looking at three or four options for a location of the building," said Dee Cantrell of Phenix City, Ala., chairman of the program that started at 6:30 p.m. ...
Trainers' show this weekend (03/29/05)
Spring is here and that means walking horse activities are starting up once again at Calsonic Arena at the Celebration Grounds. The first such event taking place for 2005 is the National Walking Horse Trainers' Show, which kicks off Wednesday and ends Saturday...