Glitz and glamour powered with serious fundraising efforts were the name of the game during Thursday evening’s inaugural FAST gala, which netted the walking horse legal fund with $47,000.

The event, held at the Blue Ribbon Circle in Shelbyville, kicked off the FAST horse show and hundreds gathered to show their support for the organization.

Kathy Zeis, a key organizer of the event, said it was a huge success and appreciated the crowd of 200-plus. Kasey Kesselring, FAST president, emceed the event, and especially thanked attorney David Broiles for his hard work on the industry’s behalf.

Silent and live auctions, an delicious dinner, and elegant atmosphere made the event one that will long be remembered.

The mission of fast is: “Financial support for the advancement and support of the Tennessee Walking Show Horse in the areas of education, equine welfare and protection, the promotion and preservation of Tennessee Walking Horse shows and exhibitions, preservation of the breed and scientific research and development."

See more photos in the next edition of Walking Horse Report.