& Ally Jo Jacobs 11 & Under Youth Walking Pony Contenders Owned by Jacobs & McWaters Front Cover.indd 1 6/16/23 2:52 PM
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Owned and Loved by Lorraine & Keith Rosbury And Knox Blackburn Columbia Spring Jubilee Open Specialty CHAMPION A huge Thank You to all of TUA’s “Cheerers” and supporters!!! Rosbury.indd 1 6/16/23 3:06 PM FEATURES 16 Extreme Cowboy Race National Championship 20 FAST Spring Showcase 24 2nd Annual Spring Extravaganza Show 29 Four Generations Of Love, Family And Tennessee Walking Horses 32 35th Annual Mid-South Horse Show 38 Youth Equine Support Show 44 53rd Annual Spring Fun Show 56 2nd Annual SCHS Tennis Teams Show 60 Columbia Spring Jubilee 70 A Legacy Of Five Generations Holding Strong 78 74th Annual Germantown Charity Horse Show 86 Kentucky Juvenile Auxiliary Show 89 The Grass Is Always Greener 92 TWHBEA Semi-Annual Meeting 94 Youth Judging Contest 118 Frolicking Foals Facebook Photo Contest Winners EVERY ISSUE 4 From The President 97 TWHBEA News 102 Motivated Mares Standings 103 Go Geldings Standings 105 Youth Medallion Class Standings 108 Calendar Of Events 109 Horsemans Directory 112 Stallion Directory 116 TWHBEA Executive Committee and Staff 120 Advertisers’ Index On The Cover: Switch Blade and ally Jo JacoBS Owned byJacobs and McWaters youth 11 and under walking Pony contenderS & Ally Jo Jacobs 11 & Under Youth Walking Pony Contenders Owned by Jacobs & McWaters 2 The Official Breed Journal July 2023 • Volume 62 No. 3 118 Contents 2022.indd 1 6/16/23 3:02 PM
Owned and Loved by Lorraine & Keith Rosbury And Knox Blackburn Columbia Spring Jubilee Open Specialty CHAMPION A huge Thank You to all of TUA’s “Cheerers” and supporters!!! Rosbury.indd 1 6/16/23 3:06 PM
7 Spring Fun Show Youth Pony Champion Unanimously Owned by The Justin Harney Family Murfreesboro, TN photos by We want to thank the crowd for the cheers and ask for your continued support! Also, thank you to the Premier team for continuing to do big things with this little team! Harney.indd 1 6/16/23 3:13 PM The first half of 2023 has been a busy and productive time for TWHBEA. All our standing committees met during our Semi-Annual Meeting weekend last month and I was proud and inspired with the reports that came out of those meetings. TWHBEA members around the world can rest assured that the staff, Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and volunteer leaders are working hard to advance our strategic plan and move the association forward. Here are a few of the highlights from the Semi-Annual Meeting: • Registrations and Transfers for last year were down slightly compared to the previous year, however they are up compared to our fiveyear average. Compared to other equine breeds, the five-year average of registrations is in line and transfers are almost 9% better. • All our programs have already met or exceeded 2022 numbers except for Motivated Mares and GO! Geldings. The Trail/Distance Program has seen the most significant increase with 60% more participants than last year. • As you can see from the Balance Sheet found in this issue, we are in a strong financial position. We have $500,000 in reserves and $146,600 in cash reserves which exceeds our obligation to maintain funding for Unearned Membership and iPEDs revenue. This also gives us the flexibility to invest money back into our facility, programs and industry. • We approved a recommendation from the Election Committee to make changes to our Corporate Rules to allow members to opt-in for online voting and make electronic voting mandatory for international members. While international postage rates have increased drastically, the dependability of the service has decreased. Last year many international members didn’t receive their ballots until after the election, so we felt this was a necessary change. • The problems with international mail service also prompted the Board of Directors to act in May, creating an International Membership category that will cost $50 USD each year but won’t include a subscription to the VOICE Magazine. International members will receive the magazine electronically. • With Covid restrictions behind us, our international marketing efforts have ramped up. We’ve already had two events in Canada and one in Germany. Plans for the remainder of the year include events in the Dominican Republic, Israel, Mexico, and Poland. This is just a small taste of what’s happening at TWHBEA right now. Be watching for more exciting announcements in the coming weeks and months. I continue to be impressed by the Executive Committee and thankful for all they do for our association and industry. It’s my privilege to work with them to serve our members. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me with any ideas, concerns, or questions you may have. Sincerely TWHBEA President From The PresidenT Jack G. Heffington 4 From The President.indd 1 6/16/23 3:12 PM
7 Spring Fun Show Youth Pony Champion Unanimously Owned by The Justin Harney Family Murfreesboro, TN photos by We want to thank the crowd for the cheers and ask for your continued support! Also, thank you to the Premier team for continuing to do big things with this little team! Harney.indd 1 6/16/23 3:13 PM
More Money. More Recognition. for breeders and young horses Nominate Now! Weanlings, Yearlings, 2 Year-Olds, 3 Year-Olds Opportunities to Earn Money in EVERY Division! Performance, Show Pleasure, Park Performance, Park Pleasure, Lite Shod, Trail Pleasure, Country Pleasure, All Day Pleasure, Weanling Halter, Yearling Halter Nomination & Entry Deadline August 1, 2023 Nominate at www.twhbea.com/futurity and then enter the appropriate Celebration class(es). For more information about the TWHBEA National Futurity, visit www.twhbea.com/futurity, call TWHBEA at 931-359-1574 or email [email protected]. Goal $50,000 $31,018 as of June 15, 2023 2023 Futurity Prize Money Futurity.indd 1 6/16/23 3:14 PM
Owned by Allyson Armstrong Hickory, NC Columbia Spring Jubilee Amateur 50 & Over CHAMPION & Allyson Armstrong Ad Sponsored by Jim Armstrong Subaru Inc. Armstrong.indd 1 6/16/23 3:15 PM
TWHBEA World Versatility Championship TWHBEA World Versatility Championship July 20 & 21, 2023 Tennessee Miller Coliseum • Murfreesboro, TN Over $8,000 in prize money & awards! TRIPLE POINT SHOW Thursday, July 20, 2023 Obstacle Classes (Horse Science Center) 8 am - 5 pm 1. Obstacle Trail Under Saddle – Beginner 1st or 2nd year horse 2. Obstacle Trail Under Saddle – Adult 3. Obstacle Trail Under Saddle – Youth 12-17 4. Obstacle Trail Under Saddle – Youth 11 & Under 5. Obstacle Trail Under Saddle – Advanced 6. Obstacle Trail In Hand - Open Hunt Seat Classes (Outdoor Arena) 9am 7. Hunter Hack (Jumping Course) - Open 8. TWH Over Fences - Open Traditional Gaited Dressage (Miller Coliseum) 10am (All Dressage Classes Are Open) 9 Intro Level Test A 10. Intro Level Test A, 1st or 2nd year rider or Youth 17 & Under 11 Intro Level Test B 12. Intro Level Test C 13. Training Level Test 1 14. Training Level Test 2 Western Gaited Dressage (Miller Coliseum) (All Dressage Classes Are Open) 15. Intro Level Test 1 16. Intro Level Test 2, 1st or 2nd year rider or Youth 17 & Under 17. Intro Level Test 3 18. Intro Level Test 4 19. Basic Level Test 1 20. Basic Level Test 2 21. Basic Level Test 4 22. First Level Test 1 23. Second Level Test 1 Reception & Presentation of Obstacle and Dressage Awards (Approximately 6pm) Friday, July 21, 2023 9:00 AM Halter Classes 24. Showmanship Adult 25. Showmanship Youth 12-17 26. Showmanship Youth 11 & Under 27. Model - Open 28. Model – Adult Amateur 29. Model – Youth 12-17 30. Model – Youth 11 & Under (15 Min Break) Equitation Classes 31. English Equitation – Adult (No Canter) 32. English Equitation – Youth 12-17 (No Canter) 33. English Equitation – Adult (Canter) 34. English Equitation – Youth 17 & Under (Canter) 35. English Equitation – Youth 11 & Under (No Canter) (15 Min Break) 36. Stock Seat Equitation – Adult (No Canter) 37. Stock Seat Equitation – Youth 12-17 (No Canter) 38. Stock Seat Equitation – Adult (Canter) 39. Stock Seat Equitation – Youth 17 & Under (Canter) 40. Stock Seat Equitation – Youth 11 & Under (No Canter) Rail Classes 41. TWH Pleasure Jr. Horse 5 & Under max 3/8 x 3/4 Amateur Specialty 42. TWH Pleasure max 3/8 x 3/4 Open Specialty 43. TWH Pleasure max 3/8 x 3/4 Amateur Specialty 44. TWH Pleasure max 3/8 x 3/4 Youth 17 & Under Specialty Western Riding & Reining 45. Western Riding – Open 46. Basic Reining – Open (15 Min Break) Driving Classes 47. Obstacle Driving - Open 48. Pleasure Driving - Open (10 Min Break) Gaming Classes 49. Water Glass – Adult 50. Egg & Spoon – Adult 51. Water Glass – Youth 12-17 52. Egg & Spoon – Youth 12-17 53. Water Glass – Youth 11 & Under 54. Egg & Spoon – Youth 11 & Under Speed Events/Timed 55. Barrels – Adult 56. Barrels – Youth 12-17 57. Barrels – Youth 11 & Under 58. Pole Bending – Adult 59. Pole Bending – Youth 12-17 60. Pole Bending – Youth 11 & Under 61. Panty Hose Race - Open High Point Awards Ceremony in Miller Club For entry deadlines and more information, visit www.twhbea.com/wvc, call 931-359-1574, or email [email protected]. Gold Sponsors Jacob Construction Anne Piet Platinum Sponsors Epiphany Foam Insulation, LLC Silver Sponsors Rockwall Insurance Mike Floyd ROCKWALL INSURANCE AGENCY RIA 2023 WVS class sheet.indd 2 6/16/23 3:17 PM
Owned by Janice Fostek Roanoke, VA Columbia Spring Jubilee Amateur 15.2 & Under CHAMPION Unanimously! & Janice Fostek RWGC & RWC Fostek.indd 1 6/16/23 3:16 PM
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Risk It & Jake Jacobs Youth Equine Support Amateur Three-Year-Old CHAMPION THE Lonestar Legend & Jake Jacobs Youth Equine Support Amateur Specialty CHAMPION Jacobs Risk/Lonestar.indd 1 6/16/23 3:00 PM
Risk It & Jake Jacobs Youth Equine Support Amateur Three-Year-Old CHAMPION THE Lonestar Legend & Jake Jacobs Youth Equine Support Amateur Specialty CHAMPION Jacobs Risk/Lonestar.indd 1 6/16/23 3:00 PM Jacobs.indd 4 6/16/23 2:55 PM
By Mary Beth Pruett A new championship came to the Champions Arena on the Celebration grounds in Shelbyville on June 3 and 4. The Extreme Cowboy Race National Championship was held under the covered arena for the first time, hosted by the Southern Obstacle Challenge Association, headquartered in Bushnell, Florida. The Extreme Cowboy Association, originated by Craig Cameron, is the only recognized association for the sport of Extreme Cowboy Racing. EXCA has been designed to encourage riders of all ages and all levels to enjoy testing their horsemanship in the Extreme Cowboy Challenge. On this weekend, riders from age 6 through age 80 were on hand to show their skills on horses and mules of every breed, size, and color. This championship featured eight levels and consisted of two runs, one on Saturday and the other on Sunday. Scores were combined to determine the winners. The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association provided an extra incentive for those riding registered Tennessee Walking Horses in the event. A $1000 purse was split among the Extreme Cowboy Race National Championship Photo Above: Show Me Your Guns (Quarter Horse Mare) - Annie Chace Rider - Pro 4th Place Photo Right: Show Me Your Guns (Quarter Horse Mare) - Annie Chance Rider - Pro 4th Place Taking it to the EXTREME Extreme Cowboy.indd 2 6/16/23 2:50 PM
highest placing TWH exhibitors in each division. TWHBEA also provided breakfast for exhibitors on both days of the competition. Saturday opened with bright sunshine and cool breezes as the Young Gun Division, open to youth 6-11, kicked off the competition. Fearless youth guided their horses through a set of obstacles – bridges, back throughs, turns, step-overs and a free ride at the end of the course. Urged on by the cheers of encouragement from the crowd and other exhibitors, the intensity on the faces of the young competitors said it all. EXCA has been described as “horsemanship with speed.” Judging relies on scores by two judges on each obstacle, from 0 to 10 points, with bonus points for faster times. Obstacles are scored on the approach, the obstacle itself and the departure. Judge Diana McMurtry explained, “To be successful in Extreme Cowboy Racing, horses must be calm, brave, and steady but with power to go when asked.” Riders walk the course at the beginning of the competition, focusing on the details of each challenge. When fractions of seconds separate the placings, it takes planning and focus to approach the course in the most efficient way, and it takes a horse willing to take direction from the rider to complete the obstacles. McMurtry, an EXCA Hall of Fame member, goes on to say, “In the free ride, riders have a chance to ‘show off.’ Speed is important, accompanied by control and a loose rein.” In general, judges look for quickness and a “flow” in the horses work on course, with points off for nervousness, excessive prancing, and spookiness. Annie Chance, from Joplin Missouri, has been competing in EXCA for a dozen years, and has the distinction of winning the elite Calgary Cowboy Up Challenge with the youngest horse to compete in that event. Before EXCA, she rode dressage, jumped, competed in Western riding and showed Arabians. “I’ve done a little bit of just about everything with horses,” she says. When asked why she came to prefer EXCA, she answered, “I think this just makes a well-rounded horse that can do almost any job you have for him. The successful horses in this field are quiet, brave, and willing, and make great working ranch horses. The best thing is the people – the atmosphere is so great. The people you show with are fair and supportive, and they are definitely people you want your kids to grow up around.” Her children are two and three years old, and they are already riding their pony and participating in lead line. As the temperature rose, competition heated up with the novice rider and green horse divisions, followed by the non-pro, intermediate, youth and ride smart divisions. The pro division finished out the day and scores were tabulated to establish leaders in each division. On Sunday, a different course challenged horses and riders, and at the end of the day, champions were crowned in each of the eight levels. Tracy Pinson, from Bushnell, Florida, is well known for her versatile TWH. She brought six horses to the race, in addition to helping put on the Tuff Night At The Ritz (TWH Gelding) - Tracy Pinson Owner & Rider - Ridesmart National Champion Extreme Cowboy.indd 3 6/16/23 2:51 PM
competition. She began her EXCA journey in 2009 and has been the most successful TWH exhibitor in the competition, even being invited to the Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up Challenge and placing in the top five against both pros and non-pros. She has won world championships in cowboy racing four times and has been a hall of fame member since 2013. Skyjacker’s Mountain High, “Tuff,” was her first mount in EXCA, winning the non pro division in 2009 and repeating in 2013. Texan at the Ritz, “Buford” was a 2013 and 2014 world champion. Of the six horses she brought this year, five were by Tuff, and Tuff Lil Texan is the third generation from Skyjacker’s Mountain High to compete in EXCA. Her enthusiasm is obvious. “This sort of brings all the versatility events into one competition,” she explains. “Jumping, trail, a little reining and Western riding and the horsemanship – all are part of this. And this is such a great group of people to be with.” By late Sunday, 139 entries had completed the final course and all that was left was to await the final results. Winners in each division were: Young Guns – Brooklyn Baldwin and Drover, Ravenwood, Missouri Novice Rider - Edward Brown and Spook, Pensacola, Florida Green Horse – Chad Blunk and Redden’s Dual Zip, Kirksville, Missouri Non Pro and Pro – Kelsie Yates and Whiskey, Glasglow, Kentucky Intermediate – Rick Schroeder and Nu Model Mercedes, Joplin , Missouri Youth – Angleine Saliceti and Samson, Topeka, Kansas Ride Smart – Tracy Pinson and Tuff Night at the Ritz, Bushnell, Florida Top scores for Tennessee Walking Horses were earned by Terri Glonek and One Tuff Cowgirl in the Novice Division, Shelby Ratliff and One Tuff Cowboy in Green Horse, Tracy Pinson and Tuff Struck Gold in Non-Pro, Lisa Steinback and Tuff Struck Gold in Intermediate, and Tracy Pinson and Tuff Night at the Ritz in the Ride Smart division. 2X T-Buck (TWH Stallion) - Tracy Pinson Rider, Vaudry Edge Owner - NonPro 5th Place One Tuff Cowgirl (TWH Mare) - Terri Glonek Owner & Rider - Novice 8th Place Extreme Cowboy.indd 4 6/16/23 2:51 PM
1. Mare & Foal 2. Youth Showmanship 3. Weanling Filly (Riders’ Cup) 4. Leadline Ponies, Riders 6 & Under 5. Weanling Colt (Riders’ Cup) 6. Fall Weanlings (Riders’ Cup) 7. Model Mares & Geldings (Riders’ Cup) 8. Amateur Weanling 9. Yearling Filly (Riders’ Cup) 10. Youth Weanling 11. Amateur Showmanship 12. Youth Yearling 13. Model Stallions (Riders’ Cup) 14. Amateur Yearling 15. Amateur/Youth Model 16. Yearling Colts (Riders’ Cup) 17. Leadline Horses or Ponies, Any Age Rider, Amateur or Professional TWHBEA SummerSizzler Halter Show Sunday, July 30, 2023 • 1 PM (Food trucks and tailgating begins at Noon) On the historic site of the first Celebration! King’s Old Central High School, 400 Elm Street, Shelbyville, TN Entry Fees and Prize Money Entry Deadline is 5pm on Friday, July 28. Scratches accepted without penalty until one hour before the show. Riders’ Cup Classes Entry Fee: $50 * Prize Money: 1) $150, 2) $125, 3) $100, 4) $75, 5) $50 All Other Classes Entry Fee: $40 * Prize Money: 1) $125, 2) $100, 3) $75, 4) $55, 5) $40 $30 inspection fee is not included in the entry fee ($5 per additional class) Box Seats and Tailgating Box Seats: $60 (each box seat area includes (6) seats and is 10’ which will allow you space for a popup tent) Railside Tailgating Space: $75 (space for one vehicle adjacent to the ring) Outfield Tailgating Space: $50 (each space is for one vehicle and are located on the two ends of the ring. They are not adjacent to the ring) An award will be given for the best Box Seat / Tailgating decorations. Judging begins at 1pm. Box Seats, Railside Parking, and Vendor Space can be reserved online at www.twhbea.com/sizzler or by calling 931-359-1574. Proceeds from the show benefit the TWHBEA National Futurity and industry marketing efforts. Gate Donations benefit the Tennessee Walking Horse Youth Association. TWHBEA International High Point Program – DOUBLE POINTS SHOW! Persons on federal disqualification cannot transport horses to this show and may only participate as a spectator. Summer Sizzler Class Sheet 23.indd 1 6/16/23 2:15 PM
On April 14-15, 2023, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds and the Cooper Steel Arena were the backdrop for the 14th Annual Spring Showcase for the Foundation for the Advancement and Support of the Tennessee Walking Horse Show (FAST). The two-night show which boasted 326 entries, was judged by Derek Bonner, Wayne Dean, and Jamie Lawrence. Friday and Saturday night were filled with quality competition and widespread blue ribbon wins over 26 trainers and barns. Claiming the FAST Spring Showcase Grand Champion title was A Big Honor and Ryan Blackburn for owner Dwight Hopper. We Will Rock You and Philip Trimble were reserve for owners Chris and Edwin Hutchinson. Rounding out the top three was Walkin’ Mr. Charlie and Sam Martin for Terry and Lisa Smith. Congratulations to all! A Big Honor and Ryan Blackburn claimed the title of FAST Spring Showcase Grand Champion for owner Martin Cox. The Ultimate Honor with Jack and Jonah Harney. FAST Spring Showcase 20 Fast Spring Showcase.indd 2 6/16/23 2:47 PM
And Jennifer Bingham Owned by Allen & Bingham London, KY FAST Spring Showcase AMATEUR CANTER CAMPION Unanimously! Bingham.indd 1 6/16/23 2:49 PM
Carolyn Pope, Walker Manis, Gary Pope and Justin Manis Deborah, Ashley and Bob Adcock, Maddie and Casey Callaway John Burton Garrett, Kate Cowan and Ally Jo Jacobs Cena Martin and Chavigny Beasley Cassie Slagle and Emily Courtner Keith and Lorraine Rosbury, Tua and Knox Blackburn Fast Spring Showcase.indd 3 6/16/23 2:48 PM
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The Bedford County Agriculture Center set the stage on April 28-29, 2023, for the 2nd Annual Spring Extravaganza and it definitely lived up to its name. With multiple other shows taking place, the two nights showcased an impressive 80 classes and 300 entries. Byrdstown, Tennessee’s Scott Beaty, was the standing judge for the show. There were numerous highlights throughout the show, but the crowning victory for the final class was to Walkin’ Mr. Charlie, Jimmy McConnell, for owners Terri and Lisa Smith. Congratulations to all on a great show! The final class’s victory was claimed by Walkin’ Mr. Charlie and Jimmy McConnell. Photo Left: A Great Honor and Dan Waddell were greeted by Jeb House, owner Chavigny Beasley, Heidi Waddell, Nicole and Chris Coffey. 2nd Annual Spring Extravaganza Show 24 Spring Extravaganza.indd 2 6/16/23 2:42 PM
The Bedford County Agriculture Center set the stage on April 28-29, 2023, for the 2nd Annual Spring Extravaganza and it definitely lived up to its name. With multiple other shows taking place, the two nights showcased an impressive 80 classes and 300 entries. Byrdstown, Tennessee’s Scott Beaty, was the standing judge for the show. There were numerous highlights throughout the show, but the crowning victory for the final class was to Walkin’ Mr. Charlie, Jimmy McConnell, for owners Terri and Lisa Smith. Congratulations to all on a great show! The final class’s victory was claimed by Walkin’ Mr. Charlie and Jimmy McConnell. Photo Left: A Great Honor and Dan Waddell were greeted by Jeb House, owner Chavigny Beasley, Heidi Waddell, Nicole and Chris Coffey. 2nd Annual Spring Extravaganza Show 24 Spring Extravaganza.indd 2 6/16/23 2:42 PM Owned by Kimberley wood Morrison Holly Spring, MS Spring Extravaganza Amateur Stallions RESERVE CHAMPION Morrison.indd 1 6/16/23 2:43 PM
Perfect Warhawk & Robert Nelms Owned by Chavigny Beasley Shelbyville, TN TRAINING FACILITY R Spring Extravaganza Yearling CHAMPION 2 Shows, 2 Blues! & Dan Waddell Spring Extravaganza Four-Year-Old Stallions CHAMPION Owned by Chavigny Beasley Shelbyville, TN A Great Honor Beasley.indd 2 6/16/23 2:45 PM
Perfect Warhawk & Robert Nelms Owned by Chavigny Beasley Shelbyville, TN TRAINING FACILITY R Spring Extravaganza Yearling CHAMPION 2 Shows, 2 Blues! & Dan Waddell Spring Extravaganza Four-Year-Old Stallions CHAMPION Owned by Chavigny Beasley Shelbyville, TN A Great Honor Beasley.indd 3 6/16/23 2:45 PM
Flying High CC and Clay Sanderson were joined by friends after their win. Starting Lineman and Jimmy Sauls celebrate their win with family and friends. Riders’ Cup Two Year Old Stallions championship team of Knox Blackburn and Country As Cornbread. Jimbo Conner and Cousin Bob claimed the Amateur 15.2 & Under class. Brandon Ailshie and Pusher’s Bay Hawk owned by Greg Kiser. Spring Extravaganza.indd 3 6/16/23 2:43 PM
By Mary Beth Pruett In any family, there are certain things that tie family members together - common interests, common goals, and common talents. There is nothing that links a family more than a love for horses and riding. For four generations, the Nathan Clark family has been riding and showing Tennessee Walking Horses. “I attended my first Celebration when I was two weeks old,” says Nathan, “and my father Steve and my grandfather Frank both showed at the Celebration.” Nathan’s wife Anna was a little later to be introduced to the breed. “It was 1987 when I attended my first Celebration. One of my father’s co-workers gave us tickets,” she says. “I have not missed a Celebration since.” She and her family rode Racking Horses for a time, but they converted to the Tennessee Waking Horse when she was in high school. Nathan and Anna met at a horse show. Anna will tell you that she is not so much into showing horses; she loves working with the mares and colts and loves to trail ride. “I would rather watch Nathan and the boys show,” she says. The boys are Frank, age 16, and John Winston, 12. Both were on their first horse when they were about nine months old, dog walking in the saddle with their parents. By the time they were five or six, they were trail riding on their own and began showing a gaited mule. Since that beginning, they have shown both pleasure horses and padded horses as well as racking horses. At home in Arab, Alabama, baseball, football, and church activities keep Frank and John Winston busy. Horse shows keep them even busier during show season and they also make the time to join their parents on trail rides, exploring places like Land Between the Lakes, Buffalo River, and Big South Fork. “We go wherever Nathan is willing to pull the horse trailer,” their mother says. Both parents recall with pride seeing the two boys win world championships, Frank at the Racking Horse Celebration riding Jazz Valor and John Winston in the Walking Horse Father and son, Frank and Nathan Clark. Four Generations Of Love, Family, and Tennessee Walking Horses 29 Clark.indd 2 6/16/23 2:40 PM
Celebration’s 2022 11 and under World Grand Championship on Miss Ebony Rose. The couple agree,“Watching both boys carry roses was our proudest moment as parents.” John Winston loves showing; he and Miss Ebony Rose light up the show ring and it’s hard to know which one is having the most fun. He enjoys the warm-up ring time before entering the class, and he also loves trail riding and working with the mares and colts at home. “Working with mares and colts is fun, and I love to see the babies born here progress on to the trail or the show ring,” he says. “My favorite horses I have shown are Miss Ebony Rose and Mucho Pesos.” His favorite show is the Columbia Spring Jubilee and Justified Honors is his favorite horse to watch in the show ring. His first ride at a Walking Horse show was on Shimmer, a flat shod horse. Between showing and trail riding, the Clarks make the most of their Tennessee Walking Horses year-round and everyone shares in the care and training of their horses. Frank, like his father, attended his first Celebration when he was less than a month old and hasn’t missed one since. Like his mom, he enjoys the behind the scenes work even more than the show ring. “I like working my own horses and prepping them for the show ring even more than showing,” he says. Frank has been working with young trail horses and finishing them out to sell. He enjoys the patient work of introducing them to new things and teaching them how to navigate obstacles on the trail. His fondest show ring memory is when he led John Winston in lead line classes and his favorite horse to show is Mucho Pesos. Mucho Peso was Frank’s first show horse in the Walking Horse world, and Gen’s Black Maverick is his favorite horse to watch in the ring. He especially enjoys showing at the Arab I attended my first Celebration when I was two weeks old “ Photo Above: Brothers, John Winston and Frank Clark. Clark.indd 3 6/16/23 2:40 PM
Photo Below: John Winston and dad, Nathan. Summer Classic. The show benefits the Arab High School football program, so it combines two of his favorite things – horses and football. Both boys agree that they love trail riding, especially at Buffalo River. They also agree that working with horses has taught them patience. The family emphasizes that just being together as a family at shows and trail rides is the biggest benefit with horses, especially with Tennessee Walking Horses. “Another blessing that I cannot stress enough about horses is the joy of friends that we have met along the way. Most of our best and lifelong friends are horse people,” says Anna. It is safe to say that horses are a family tradition that will continue for a long time to come. Photo Above: Brothers, John Winston and Frank Clark. Most of our best and lifelong friends are horse people. “ Clark.indd 4 6/16/23 2:41 PM
On Saturday, May 6, 2023, the 35th Annual Mid-South Charity Horse Show was held in Parker Crossroads, TN at the Parkers Crossroads City Park. The 30-class show was judged by Link Webb of Shelbyville, TN. The proceeds from this charity event will result in a donation to the American Cancer Society. The show finale was the Walking Stake class where Master’s Cool Jazz took top honors with trainer Edgar Abernathy and is owned by Glenda Nichols. Congratulations to all of the winners. Master’s Cool Jazz ridden by Edgar Abernathy claimed the 35th Annual Mid-South Horse Show Grand Champion title. They are joined by the Abernathy Stables barn family. Ronal and Vivvie Morton 35th Annual Mid-South Horse Show 32 Mid South.indd 2 6/16/23 2:38 PM
On Saturday, May 6, 2023, the 35th Annual Mid-South Charity Horse Show was held in Parker Crossroads, TN at the Parkers Crossroads City Park. The 30-class show was judged by Link Webb of Shelbyville, TN. The proceeds from this charity event will result in a donation to the American Cancer Society. The show finale was the Walking Stake class where Master’s Cool Jazz took top honors with trainer Edgar Abernathy and is owned by Glenda Nichols. Congratulations to all of the winners. Master’s Cool Jazz ridden by Edgar Abernathy claimed the 35th Annual Mid-South Horse Show Grand Champion title. They are joined by the Abernathy Stables barn family. Ronal and Vivvie Morton 35th Annual Mid-South Horse Show 32 Mid South.indd 2 6/16/23 2:38 PM Tejano & Daniel Schmidt SCHS Tennis Teams Youth Show Pleasure CHAMPION Young Jackson & Blaise Broccard Mid-South Horse Show Association Open Specialty CHAMPION Owned by the Larry West Family • Fayetteville, Tennessee Ad Sponsored by Primeland Construction Co. ©Barr Studios ©Sid Abernathy West.indd 1 6/16/23 2:39 PM
Walker Manis Ryder Wright Rocky Bowden, Robert Nelms, Melissa Garrett and Amanda Nelms Carroll Counts and Cash’s Bold And Fresh following their win are joined by Edgar Abernathy Jannie Chapman is joined by friends following her win. Steve Shelton and Edgar Abernathy join Carol Shelton following her in on Watermelon Sugar 4G. Mid South.indd 3 6/16/23 2:37 PM
Owned by Joe Link Mt. Juliet, TN Columbia Spring Jubilee Weanlings CHAMPION Unanimously & Robert Nelms Columbia Spring Jubilee Yearling Stallions CHAMPION Unanimously & Robert Nelms Link.indd 1 6/16/23 2:35 PM
Owned by Ed Lukacevic Ed’s Walking Horses, LLC 2400 Lebanon Rd. Crittenden, KY 41030 [email protected] 859-322-2483 Mid-South Horse Show Association MODEL CHAMPION & Robert Nelms Lukacevic.indd 1 6/16/23 2:35 PM
Owned by Upper Cumberland Open Specialty CHAMPION And Jeremy Jeansonne Stewart.indd 1 6/16/23 2:34 PM
After a few last-minute changes, the first Youth Equine Support Show was held at Champions Arena in Shelbyville, Tennessee on May 13, 2023. Despite being its first year, the show featured a variety of classes, including two for first-time exhibitors. Additionally, winners of each youth class were given a chance to win one $500 reward while the others received $100 each. A great night was capped off with the presentation of Youth Equine Support Grand Champion going to Master of Design and Dan Waddell for owner Brenda Marmon. The show manager, Jerry Harris, spoke of his appreciation to all who helped support the youth of the industry and for making the show a success. Youth Equine Support Grand Champion of the night was Master Of Design and Dan Waddell met by owner Brenda Marmon and friends. The First Youth Equine Support Show A Success 38 Photo Right: Ann Marie Beard, Heather Beard, Gail Walling, Harley Beard and Ashley Walling make the show a family affair. Photo Above: Alayna Arnold congratulates Ally Jo Jacobs on her win. Youth Equine Support.indd 2 6/16/23 2:32 PM
Photo Left: Chris Payne and Thom Meeks straight from the Steeple Chase event. Morgan Stevens, Bailey and Drew McCormick join Mickey McCormick with owners Lisa and Jim Baum. Photo Above: Kimberly Walden was met by family after her All Day Pleasure win with She’s Never Been Kissed. Youth Equine Support.indd 3 6/16/23 2:32 PM
& Rodney Dick Gin’s Lucky PENNY Dixie Dare DEVIL & Edgar Abernathy Spring Extravaganza 15.2 & Under CHAMPION Owned by Windermere Farm Jannie Chapman Fayetteville, TN NCWHA Spring Three-Year-Old CHAMPION Owned by Johnny & Michelle Gaines Olive Branch, MS WGC & WC Chapman.indd 1 6/16/23 2:28 PM
& Rodney Dick Gin’s Lucky PENNY Dixie Dare DEVIL & Edgar Abernathy Spring Extravaganza 15.2 & Under CHAMPION Owned by Windermere Farm Jannie Chapman Fayetteville, TN NCWHA Spring Three-Year-Old CHAMPION Owned by Johnny & Michelle Gaines Olive Branch, MS WGC & WC Chapman.indd 1 6/16/23 2:28 PM Honor’s Roll Call & Jannie Chapman Spring Fun Show Amateur Four-Year-Old Stallions CHAMPION BATMAN JC & Jannie Chapman Spring Fun Show Amateur Park Performance Reserve CHAMPION Owned by Windermere Farms • Jannie Chapman • Fayetteville, TN Chapman 3 pgs.indd 1 6/16/23 2:29 PM
3xWGC & 4xWC A Touche’ & Jannie Chapman Columbia Spring Jubilee Amateur Park Performance CHAMPION Unanimously Charlie Watts & Jeff Laughlin Columbia Spring Jubilee Show Pleasure Five & Under CHAMPION Owned by Windermere Farms • Jannie Chapman Fayetteville, TN Chapman 3 pgs.indd 2 6/16/23 2:30 PM
Limbaugh & Jannie Chapman Columbia Spring Jubilee Amateur Two-Year-Old Stallions CHAMPION Unanimously WC Draw A Line & Jeff Laughlin Columbia Spring Jubilee Park Performance CHAMPION Owned by Windermere Farms • Jannie Chapman Fayetteville, TN Chapman 3 pgs.indd 3 6/16/23 2:30 PM
Perfect weather and the “Big Oval” outdoor arena set the stage for the 53rd Annual Spring Fun Show at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds in Shelbyville, Tennessee May 25th through May 27th. The Celebration sponsored show was judged by Chris Bobo, Nathan Clark and Chris Zahnd. The three-night show had numerous high points to boast. A crowd favorite and notable addition to the show line-up was the youth Stick Horse class. “I loved that we had the opportunity for our littlest fans to have a chance to go around the big oval,” said Celebration CEO Warren Wells. Additional highlights were the two exhibitions featuring Jack Kail on his Youth Speed Racking World Grand Champion, as well as John Allan Callaway on the 2022 Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion, Justified Honors. Justified Honors received a standing ovation as he made the traditional last pass around the ring as the reigning World Grand Champion. The level of talent was seen across every class as 26 different barns took home at least one blue ribbon. The final class on Saturday was small on entries but continued the high level of talent with Jeff Laughlin and Glory JC closing out the show as Spring Fun Show Grand Champions while owner, Jannie Chapman was by their side to celebrate the win. Reserve in the class went to Mach 1 and Jimmy McConnell and the third-place finish went to Really Coach? and Jamie Lawrence. 2023 Spring Fun Show Grand Champion Glory JC and Jeff Laughlin with owner Jannie Chapman and the Finish Line Farm family. 53rd Annual Spring Fun Show 44 Fun Show.indd 2 6/16/23 2:21 PM
Owned by BJ Campbell-Franck Montpelier, VA Spring Fun Show Amateur Western Country Pleasure RESERVE CHAMPION Franck.indd 1 6/16/23 2:25 PM
Owned by Debbie Woods Lexington, TN A SPECIAL THANKS FOR ALL YOUR KIND COMMENTS FOLLOWING OUR WIN. THIS WIN IS DEDICATED TO BILLY WOODS. FAST Spring Showcase and Fun Show FOUR-YEAR-OLD SPECIALTY CHAMPION Woods.indd 1 6/16/23 2:26 PM
I Am Lady Wolf & Casey Wright WC Spring Fun Show Four-Year-Old Mares & Geldings CHAMPION Owned by Debbie Woods Lexington, TN Lady Wolf.indd 1 6/16/23 2:27 PM
Kyndra Myers and A Gin To Win Kimberly and Perry Walden Hannah Myatt with Legend of Zelda and BJ Campbell-Franck Jack Heffington and Jayden Jackson Delaine Freeman-Smith and friends Parker Blackburn and Coy Sanderson Fun Show.indd 3 6/16/23 2:24 PM