by Linda Scrivner

MANCHESTER, Tenn. – The Pleasure Walking Horse Association of Tennessee (PWHAT) enjoys every aspect of the Tennessee Walking Horse. They are avid trail ride enthusiasts who enjoy leisurely rides through the scenic parks of Tennessee. They are versatility enthusiasts who like to try it all from driving to jumping. They are show ring enthusiasts who come from all walks of life and enjoy the fun of competition.

From the very young to the very old, from the timid rider to the bold barrel races, PWHAT offers a fun family filled environment where people can relax and enjoy every aspect of the natural Tennessee Walking Horse.

This group continued its celebration of the walking horse as it culminated a fun filled year at the general membership meeting and awards banquet at the lovely new state of the art Manchester Conference Center in Manchester, Tenn., Saturday, Jan. 24, 2009.

The evening began with a huge crowd enjoying a social hour and viewing the large silent auction, the winter fundraiser. Bidding was competitive for the large assortment of unusual and horsey items.

The evening began with a wonderful buffet dinner and a welcome by President Rex Nance. Nance called the meeting to order and began with Treasurer Pat Stout giving the Treasurer’s Report. PWHAT now has 321 members, some of which are family memberships and others are individual. Stout reported that their Flat Shod International Show made $1,000. Committee reports were next. Rex Nance said this was his last year as president since he had been an executive for four years.

Sandy Harris gave the show report and stated that they had four shows in 2008 with five planned in 2009. These dates will soon be on their web site at www.pwhat.com. The Trail Rides Committee report was given by Bob Purvis. PWHAT had 15 rides all over Tennessee, one of which was canceled due to weather. There were 134 riders that participated and he stated that hopefully some will decide to show their horses. He reported that there were 315 people on the Wartrace ride of which they were a part.

Nance next read four bylaw revisions that carried unanimously. New board of directors were called to the front and installed following by election of officers. The nominating committee offered a slate of officers that included Sandy Harris for president, Marilynn MacLeod for vice-president, Abby Fricia for secretary and Pat Stout for treasurer. The slate was voted in unanimously.