by Renee Isaacs

LEXINGTON, Ky. - The Kentucky Walking and Racking Horse Trainers’ Association held their annual banquet on Dec. 17, 2007, at the Springs Inn in Lexington, Ky. Over 30 awards were presented and the meal was catered with a special visitor to follow.
A discussion was held and the 2008 association president was elected. John Tudor will remain president along with Donna Galloway as secretary. John Jackson, Tommy Smith and Alan McQuerry were elected to stay on the Board of Directors.
When the banquet began, many people were anxious to meet the special guest. Renee Isaacs and Nicholas Sims brought out the guest, who was a baby pig named May Belle. Ooohs and aaaws came from everywhere. A contest was held with all the trainers.  Throughout the evening, the trainers were to collect as much money as they could from other guests. The lucky trainer to have the most money in their jar would be rewarded with a kiss from May Belle at the end of the night. At the end of the evening, Donnie May and Mike Oney ran a very tight race with a one-dollar difference. Mike Oney came out on top and was proud to kiss May Belle, who wore a beautiful red ribbon around her neck.
The live auction was full of great items and brought in a surprising amount of money with all proceeds going to the association. The KWRHTA would like to thank everyone for their support and ask that anyone interested in being a member to please contact Donna Galloway.