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Our News Archives

Title / Summary Publication Date

TWHBEA Announces Second Year of Equestrian Star Program

The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ & Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) is proud to announce the second year of the Equestrian Star Program, an initiative designed to recognize and celebrate the rising stars of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.
2/16/2026

The wait is over — It’s time to honor the 2025 WHTA Horses of the Year

The Walking Horse Trainers’ Association celebrated a milestone this year as the 58th Annual WHTA Awards Banquet honored the Tennessee Walking Horse and the unforgettable moments of the 2025 show season.
2/14/2026

Obituary – Mary Ann Blessing

Mary Ann Blessing, age 67, went home to be with the Lord on February 12, 2026, in Bristol, Tennessee. Born in Rockville, Maryland, Mary Ann lived a life marked by unwavering faith, quiet strength, and tireless service to others.
2/14/2026

Deputy Administrator Juarez meets with Trainers’

FRANKLIN, Tenn. – United States Department of Agriculture Deputy Administrator Bernadette Juarez was in attendancee at the annual Walking Horse Trainers’ Association meeting as part of their convention and annual Horse of the Year banquet. 
2/13/2026

Latest Issue 2 16 26

2/13/2026

TWHBEA and WHTA Add USDA/APHIS Speaker to Show Managers Meeting

FRANKLIN, Tenn. — The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ & Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA), in partnership with the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA), will host a meeting for Tennessee Walking Horse show managers on Saturday, February 14, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
2/11/2026

World Grand Champion Portrait of Justified Honors Presented to Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A portrait of the reigning World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, JUSTIFIED HONORS, was recently presented to Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt at the Ellington Agricultural Center in Nashville, home of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
2/11/2026

Celebration Releases Proposed Class Sheet for the 88th Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration; Feedback Requested

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is pleased to release a proposed class sheet for the 88th Celebration and invites feedback from the industry. The proposed changes are designed to increase participation, improve class efficiency, and create additional opportunities across multiple divisions. 
2/11/2026

The Spring Extravaganza Selects Judge for 2026 Show

The Spring Extravaganza, scheduled for May 8–9, 2026, at the Bedford County Ag Center, has announced that Amy Trimble will serve as judge for the event.
2/10/2026

SHOW HIO to require Horse and Exhibitor Cards in 2026

The SHOW HIO will once again require horse and exhibitor cards for the upcoming 2026 show season.  This will be the third year of the program, which is administered by the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ & Exhibitors’ Association. 
2/9/2026

Obituary – Glenda Susan Nichols

Glenda Susan Nichols, age 71 of Ozark, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend to many, passed away surrounded by love on February 9, 2026. 
2/9/2026

Obituary- Dr. Clifford Louis Garrard, Jr

Dr. Clifford Louis Garrard, Jr., age 89, died peacefully in his sleep Thursday, February 5, 2026, at The Carriage House Assisted Living in Shelbyville, Tennessee.
2/9/2026

Latest Issue 2 9 2026

2/6/2026

Walking in the Smokies Announces 2026 Judging Panel

Walking in the Smokies, scheduled for April 9–11, 2026, at Smoky Mountain Arena in Sevierville, Tennessee, has announced its judging panel of Jamie Bradshaw, Ross Campbell, and Kenny Smith.
2/5/2026

Obituary – Robert Wayne "Bud" Moore

Robert Wayne "Bud" Moore, 86, of Seagrove Beach, FL, passed away at his Bit and Spur farm in Lynnville, TN, just after sunset on February 2, 2026. He was dedicated, working 12-hour days, 7 days a week, for the first 40 years of his adult life. He was extraordinarily generous, gracious, and thoughtful.
2/4/2026