Things have warmed up in Shelbyville despite the recent cold temperatures. This is a special time of year to see the hard working trainers show up at the Shelbyville Recreation Center and start practicing for the big event of the winter, February Madness. This is the fourth year for this popular event and it will warm you up to come watch these guys playing ball together, having fun and putting forth their all for a great cause.

Vanderbilt Children's Hospital is what this is all about. In the past three years the WHTA Youth Council has raised enough money to donate over $15,000 to the hospital and give thousands of dollars to their WHTA Youth Council Members in Crisis Fund.

The draft took place on Jan. 16, 2009. The coaches have chosen their teams and the competition has begun. The coaches are Rollie Beard and Allan Callaway for the Red Team, Carlyle Johnson and Winky Groover for the Blue Team, Jeff Willis and Bill Callaway for the White Team and Justin Jenné and Chad Williams for the Black Team.

There will be a live auction held during half times with some very exciting items. You won't want to miss out on the bidding! Riverbend Country Club Membership Package, UT Football tickets for the 2009-2010 season, Gatlinburg weekend package, Riding Coat from Marsha's, MTSU Lady Raiders package including tickets to the last home game of the season against arch rivals Western Kentucky, complete set of western tack (headstall, reins and breast band) with Swaroski crystals from Winner’s Circle, The Scoop Advertising package, box to the Fun Show and a Gulf Coast Charity Horse Show package, a special piece of jewelry from Richard's Jewelry, as well as others that will be announced soon.

The Walking Horse Report is sponsoring the half time entertainment again this year. You won't want to miss out on the chance to win a back cover to the Report. All kids that would like to get in on the action in the Youth Shoot Out can sign up. World Champion Horse Equipment is awarding prizes to first, second and third place this year at the Youth Competition Shoot Out.

The concession stand will have great food and the evening is sure to be truly February Madness at its best! Join us Feb. 20, 2009, 6 p.m. at the Shelbyville Recreation Center to cheer on your favorite trainer and to give generously to this great cause.