SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is pleased to announce that a lawsuit brought by the family of Troy Yokley against Celebration, Inc. has been voluntarily withdrawn.

Yokley was killed in a tragic single-vehicle crash during the 2004 Celebration. The suit alleged that The Celebration was negligent in allowing Yokley to drive after being served alcohol in The Blue Ribbon Circle Club.

"We felt strongly about our position on the issues that were brought forth in this lawsuit," said Celebration Chairman John T Bobo. "Having the lawsuit voluntarily withdrawn sends a strong message that Celebration employees fulfilled their duties properly and did all they could to bring the situation involving Mr. Yokley to a positive conclusion."

"While the withdrawal of the suit affirms the policies and procedures of The Celebration, there is no feeling of victory. This is a very close-knit industry and the feeling of loss still lingers. This type of tragedy is a horrible reminder that we must continue to be vigilant to make sure that our employees continue to be thoroughly trained to handle all types of situations in a proper manner."