The Board of the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) voted unanimously today to initiate an investigation by the WHTA Ethics Committee into an alleged Code of Ethics violation against a middle Tennessee Walking Horse trainer.

The potential violation was reported to the Walking Horse Trainers Association who immediately convened its Board of Directors via conference call to initiate the investigation.

“The Ethics Committee will conduct a full and thorough investigation and hearing in accordance with the Code of Ethics and upon their determination, appropriate action will be taken,” said Wink Groover, President of the WHTA.

In light of the serious nature of these charges, the WHTA is requesting random preshow fluoroscope testing of the horses entered at the 69th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. This testing would be in addition to the previously announced enhanced inspection procedures at this year’s World Championship event which include drug testing, the use of hoof testers, and the requirement for selected entries to remove their shoes to be weighed and inspected.

The WHTA Code of Ethics prescribes that reported violations be investigated fully and the person charged with disciplinary action be given at least 15 days written notice of the hearing date. Upon the majority opinion of the Ethics Committee, all parties to the complaint will be notified within 30 days.