SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, seeing a need in its 2004 class schedule, has added two classes for youth exhibitors. Both added classes will be Plantation Pleasure, Lite Shod classes for youth exhibitors. The first (Class 6Y) is Plantation Pleasure Walking Mares or Geldings, Lite Shod, Riders 12-17 Years. It will be held during the Wednesday Morning performance in Calsonic Arena.

The other (Class 40Y) is Plantation Pleasure Walking Mares or Geldings, Lite Shod, Riders 11 Years and Under. This class will be held during the Friday Morning performance at Calsonic.

“The Celebration is very protective of its youth exhibitors and we felt there was a need for these two classes,” said Celebration CEO and Show Manager Ron Thomas. “We feel the youth of our industry should have every opportunity to show at The Celebration to gain valuable experience and to better themselves as riders.” Prior to these additions, The Celebration offered one Lite Shod Canter class for youth riders and one Novice, Two-Gait class.

“Two of the fastest growing areas of our show are the youth and lite shod divisions,” continued Thomas. “We do not add classes every time someone asks. However, when we can serve such a large constituency, it makes perfect sense.”

The entry deadline for The 66th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is August 10, 2004 at 5:00 p.m. Competition begins on Wednesday, August 25 and will conclude with the crowning of the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse on Saturday, September 4 at The Historic Celebration Grounds in Shelbyville. For more information on The Celebration, go to www.twhnc.com or call 931-684-5915.