SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – The Walking Horse Trainers’ Association would like to extend its thanks to the people that made the 43rd Annual National Trainers’ Show the best in eight years.  “We would like to thank the owners and trainers for bringing the quality of depth of horses to this year’s show.  It all starts with this group and we can’t have a show without our owners and trainers,” said show chairman Benny Johnson.

With a total of 483 entries in one less day and 22 less classes, the WHTA couldn’t be more proud of the results from its horse show, the largest fundraising initiative for the WHTA.  “I would also like to thank the many sponsors, vendors and volunteers who make our show what it is and allow our association to continue,” said Johnson.

For the second consecutive year, the judging panel donated their fee back to the association and judged the horse show for free.  Bill Cantrell, Tommy Howell and Larry Wheelon judged this year’s event and all agreed to help the association with their donation.  “We just can’t thank this group enough for their generosity.  Our association is in deep need for financial stability and acts such as this one allow us to get closer to that goal,” concluded Johnson.

The 43rd Annual National Trainers’ Show also saw the largest one-night gate receipt in its history.  The Saturday evening performance collected $10,200 at the door in ticket sales.  “There is no doubt the community of Shelbyville knows horses and when we show our best, they will come out and support our shows.  Again the credit goes to the trainers and owners who showed their quality horses,” said Johnson.
 
The WHTA looks forward to a great show season and is proud that its kickoff horse show could provide a much needed boost to the horse shows in the industry.  The WHTA encourages its members to support their local horse shows, travel to the industry’s premier events and make 2011 a season that can provide the basis for new horse show development in the industry.