September 28-30, 2006 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

     MURFREESBORO, TENN. -- The 2006 edition of the International Grand Championship Walking Horse Show will go on as planned.  That's the decision of the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) board of directors, who host the show.  Over 20 owners who serve on the board of directors held a conference call today to discuss a variety of issues, including the International, which is only three weeks away.  Board members feel that this decision will be a sign of support for trainers and the entire industry.  Now in its 28th year, the International will be held September 28th - 30th at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro.

     "Our board is unified in their opinion that the International should continue," says David Pruett, WHOA president.  "Our horses are in great shape and the overwhelming majority are compliant with all industry and federal rules." Pruett is referring to the statistics released by the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) that say 92% of the horses at this year's Celebration passed inspections of both NHSC inspectors and USDA inspectors.  "We are working hard to resolve our differences with the USDA; progress has already been made and I think will continue."

     The International is one of the top showcases for Tennessee Walking Horses in the country, and in 2005 was voted "Best Multi-Night Horse Show" by the readers of the Walking Horse Report.  This year's show will also include a Kid's Zone, sponsored by Bob Parks Realty, and an Arts and Crafts Fair.  The horse show begins at 7:00 pm each evening, but the gates will open at 4:00 pm on Thursday and Friday and noon on Saturday so visitors can visit vendors which feature the work of local artists, western wear, equine items, jewelry and quilts.  There will be pony rides and face painting in the Kid's Zone each day and night.  The pony rides are free until the show starts at 7; there is a minimal charge once the show has begun.  There will be three demonstrations on Saturday, including sheep-shearing, woodworking and a blacksmith demonstration showing how horse shoes are made.

     General admission and box seat tickets are available for the show, and include admission to the Arts and Crafts Fair and Kid's Zone.  For more information, call 615-494-8822 or visit www.walkinghorseowners.com.  Sponsors are also still needed for the show.  If you are interested in being a sponsor, contact Mark Taylor at 615-494-8824.