by Julia Livingston

 

            ROGERSVILLE, Tenn. - Even with March winds blowing and rain pouring from the sky, the East Tennessee Walking Horse Association held their 27th annual Barn Party, Saturday, March 15. This year the event was held at Summerhill Farms, the home of Dwight, Lisa and Summer Brooks and also the new location of Larry Wheelon Stables. The Brooks were gracious hosts and with the help from board members, Larry and his loyal customers made the day a splashing success.

            A crowd of over 300 blew in for the event, which included 16 trainers. The preview was started with a prayer given by Ken Estes. The announcer for the day was Richard Lindsey and Harry Bacon served as the auctioneer. Chefs Gene Fain and Coy Jarvis prepared a delicious meal that included barbecue pork, baked beans with all the trimmings, along with great desserts made by the ladies of East Tennessee. Between the silent and live actions, stud fees and meals, the fundraiser brought in around $8,000.

            A total of 25 horses were previewed: nine two-year-olds, two three-year-olds, five four-year-olds, five aged hoses and as always the crowd favorites, four juvenile horses. The 2007 ETWHA 11 & Under High Point Horse and Rider of the Year Danielle Ricker and Heart Attack's Fast Beat exhibited their winning ways. Ricker also showed off her new ride for the 12-17 division, My Lucky Color. Talented 11 & under competitor Ty Hodge rode Speck In The Sky, owned by Herb Sterner. Christopher Bacon rode Prowler In Blue, owned by Harry Bacon, in his debut.

            The event went extremely smooth, food was great, horses were very talented and most of all the fellowship was enjoyable, leaving everyone excited and ready to go to the next horse show.