SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – Veteran horse show announcer John Hood has agreed to announce the morning classes at the 2003 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, according to Celebration CEO Ron Thomas.

Hood, a Murfreesboro, Tenn., resident and member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, is no stranger to the Celebration or center ring. In 1999, he announced several nights of the Celebration when Cliff Gillespie was in failing health.

In addition to the Celebration, Hood announces numerous one-night shows throughout the area and has long been part of the management team for the Murfreesboro Exchange Club Horse Show.

“It’s an honor to be part of the Celebration,” said Hood. “It carries such a tradition and means so much to the area.”

Hood will call the action during the five days of competition at Calsonic Arena while director of public and media relations Chip Walters will be in his second year as the lead announcer in the main arena for the ten nights of the show.

“John is a good man and solid horse show announcer that is familiar with our breed and a familiar voice to local horse show fans,” said Thomas. “Our customers have made it clear that they expect any announcer we have to be familiar with the breed and know the lingo.”

The 65th Celebration is just over two weeks away. Classes begin on Wednesday, August 20 and run through Saturday, August 30.