In action today by the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the Board of Directors approved reinstating guaranteed premiums for all World Grand Championship classes. This represents $175,000.00 ($5,000.00 per class) in guaranteed funds plus an additional $50,000.00 for the TWHNC World Grand Champion for a total of $225,000.00 in championship class guaranteed premiums by The Celebration. This represents the same premiums that were awarded in 2010 World Grand Champion classes.
“I think this is a bold move on the part of the Directors given our current economic climate as well as recent industry activities. This action is as a result of a strong plea made by trainers at a recent meeting with members of the board,” said Celebration Chief Executive Officer Dr. Doyle Meadows.
Meadows continued, “This is a one-year commitment and provides an opportunity for the industry to step up and support our championship classes. If The Celebration continues to lose money we will have to make appropriate changes next year.”
The Celebration recently announced that premiums would be paid out based upon entry revenues with 90% of the total entry revenue being allocated to premiums. This payout method will continue to be used for all preliminary classes.
“Our industry, in addition to championship entries, needs to support its World Championship show and allow it to move forward on a sound financial basis. Participation in the championship classes will provide more fan excitement and involvement for the Celebration,” concluded Meadows.