by Ashlea Wheelon

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - With only a couple shows left before the Academy Championships, all the riders got their practice in Murfreesboro, Tenn., at the Miller Coliseum on Saturday, Feb. 28 2009. Billy Dean of Bell Buckle Tenn., did the honors of judging this talented group of riders in 27 classes. Leah Boyd sang the national anthem and Tommy Hall along with Mark Taylor were the announcers for the day. Everyone was pleased with the good turnout as 76 entries made the gate call. The show was another great success as each rider showcased their hard work, talents, skills and most importantly their love for the Tennessee Walking Horse.

Cahoots made his show ring appearance since he was donated to the TWHF Second Career program by Sarah Dunn and Lynn Dorris at the last horse show earlier this month. Cahoots carried multiple riders to blues under the direction of Leigh Bennett.
 
The Academy Program would like to thank those instructors and trainers who give so much of their time and expertise: Leigh Bennett, Alice Kline, Beverly Lamp, Barbara Civils, Bill Reed and Bruce Hankins.

Come join the fun and competition at these WHOA-TWHBEA Academy shows: March 7, 2009, 10 a.m. at Waterfall Farms, Shelbyville, Tenn., and March 21, 2009, 10 a.m. at the Academy Championships at the Calsonic Arena, Shelbyville.