Abby Fox – Cookeville, Tennessee

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN THE TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE INDUSTRY?
I’ve ridden ever since I was able to sit on a horse, but didn’t start showing until 1992. I was originally going to start in the summer of ‘91, but I fractured my left leg really bad, and had to wait until the following year.

WHAT HORSES DO YOU CURRENTLY OWN AND WHO ARE THEY IN TRAINING WITH?
My current show horses include Walk With Me in the Amateur Mares & Geldings classes, Pro V1 in the Amateur 15.2 & Under Stallion division and Led Zeppelin. They are all trained by Beaty Stables in Byrdstown, Tennessee.

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE PAST WORLD GRAND CHAMPION AND WHY?
My favorite world grand champion is The Pushover. I loved everything about that horse and he sure made his mark on the breed. But I feel that each world grand champion is special in their own way, and very deserving of the prestigious title.

IF THERE WAS ONE AREA OF THE INDUSTRY YOU COULD CHANGE OR RAMP UP, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
I hope we can continue the positive promotion of our breed and change the unknowing public’s perception of our great horse. We have the most versatile horse there is!

IF YOU WERE NOT AT THE BARN OR A HORSE SHOW, WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING IN YOUR FREE TIME?
In my free time, I enjoy caring for my cattle and other animals, working on the farm, spending time with family and friends. And I do love a good road trip!

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE TV SHOWS, MOVIES OR NETFLIX FEATURES HAVE YOU BEEN BINGE WATCHING DURING THE PANDEMIC?
I really don’t watch a lot of TV, but I did watch Lonesome Dove again for the thousandth time!

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR SHOW CAREER THUS FAR?
Gosh, I’d have to say retiring several beautiful challenge trophies last year after having won the Amateur World Grand Championship in 2017, 2018 and 2019 on Led Zeppelin. But also having the Year In Walking Horse dedicated to Led. That was a huge honor, and certainly a highlight. He’s so special to me, and I’m so appreciative of these honors.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM CAN YOU GIVE TO THE HORSE INDUSTRY ON THE PANDEMIC?
This is only temporary. Enjoy the slower pace right now. Enjoy your time spent with family. Every little thing is gonna be alright.