by Julia Livingston

WHITE PINE, Tenn. – The United Racking and Walking Spring Show was held on April 5 at the Great Smoky Mountain Expo Center. As rain poured from the sky, the newly covered facility provided cover and it made out to be the largest spring show ever. There were 275 horses that entered the ring and around 1,000 spectators were on hand to witness some great horses. In years past, this show was the primary fundraiser for the URHOEA World Celebration held in September. This year the show also affiliated with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This gave URHOEA the opportunity to help some children’s dreams come true.

The walking horse judge was Bill Carmichael while Tim Toler marked the cards in the racking divisions for the 43-class event. The show manager was Charmin Hall who wished to send a special thanks to all who donated their time and efforts in helping with the show.

Ten horses made the gate call for the Open Specialty Walking Horse Stake. Keith Ailshie directed Dale Earnhardt to the top honor for owner Jordon Fox. This win came as the first of the 2008 show season for this new duo.

Complete list of results can be viewed by clicking here.