M.O.A.B. Exploded in the East Tennessee Mountains
Thursday, May 22, 2008

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by Linda Fox
 
HARRIMAN, Tenn. - The 24th annual Smoky Mountain Classic was held on May 16 and 17, 2008, at the East Tennessee Agricultural Exposition Center in Harriman, Tenn. Mark West of Manchester, Tenn., presided over the 49 walking horse classes. Scott Helton of Whitesburg, Tenn., did an outstanding job as master of ceremonies, while Dana Doyle was the official photographer and Wayne Nabors provided the musical accompaniment for the event.

Hard working Show Chairman Vicki Watlington and her volunteers certainly know how to put on a horse show. They seem to leave nothing to chance, everything is meticulously planned and as a result the show went on without a hitch.

Proceeds from the Smoky Mountain Classic benefit The Dream Connection Foundation. This year’s recipient is Taylor Holland, the 10-year-old daughter of Frank and Katie Holland. Taylor has Polycystic Kidney Disease. The Smoky Mountain Walking Horse Association was able to send Taylor and her family to Disney World as a result of the success of the show.

The Stake class was held in memorial of one of the most talented and respected gentleman the walking horse world has had to offer, Mr. Paul Watlington. Topping the class was the black stallion M.O.A.B. and trainer Steve Hankins for Della Compton of Tazewell, Va. Sweeping Up The Cash and Tim Wheelon rode to the red streamer for Koger and Wheelon, and rounding out the top three were A Big Time Pusher and Jerry Highsmith for Ray Hughes.

Complete results may be viewed by clicking here.

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