by Linda Scrivner

CLEVELAND, Tenn. – The Tri-State Racking and Walking Horse Association T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital Benefit Show was held May 9-10 at the Tri-State Exhibition Center in Cleveland, Tenn.

Many who came to this show for the first time were impressed with the show’s facilities and hospitality and stated that they would come again next year. The Tri-State Exhibition Center boasts a 70,400 square foot covered show arena with bleachers and box seats and three barns with 208 stalls located on 92 acres with a lovely view of the green mountains surrounding it.

The association worked hard to make this show one of the outstanding ones. There were many fundraisers at the show in addition to contributing proceeds. The quality and number of horses were excellent. A hospitality room with food was offered each night to those in attendance following the show. New this year was breakfast in the center ring on Saturday morning for those working their horses. New also this year was the addition of eight WHTA Riders’ Cup classes.

TSRWA President and artist Billie Nipper said, “For over 40 years, I had worked with others for special events. But this group absolutely put their heart and soul and tireless energy into not only trying to put on the best horse show for TSR&WA, but to make all of our exhibitors and supporters feel welcome. And also raise as much money as possible for this great cause. Our family knows from personal experiences what a great hospital T.C. Thompson is for the cure of many children’s illnesses.”

Gwenn Frederick, show manager, added, “Some people may have been discouraged after the first year of our show with the turn out that we had, but we weren’t, we just got more determined. Our second year, we were able to double our donation to the Children’s Miracle Network and this, our third year, has turned out to be even better. Because we are a small organization and most everyone involved with this show has horses of his own to show, it is a real undertaking to put together the caliber of show we are trying to have. One of the most comments I get is about our hospitality room after the show on both nights and this year we added breakfast on Saturday morning. Everyone seems to really enjoy the good food and fellowship. With the wonderful comments on our facilities and our hospitality, I am looking forward to a great show for Mother’s Day weekend in 2009. Hope to see you there!”

Tim Smith of Shelbyville, Tenn., judged the 46-class event. Smith judged the show quickly and efficiently.

Joe Fleming Stables of Shelbyville, Tenn., led the blue ribbon tally with five blues. Dickie Scrivner of Tan View Farm and Jeff Willis Stables returned home with four blues apiece. Bud Dunn & Sons Stables and Paul Livingston Stables earned three blues each. Dual blues were won by Latham Stables, Chris Pickel Stables and Larry Tudor. The remaining single blues belonged to Rob Claxton of Desiree Stables, Randy Young of D&R Stables, John Floyd Stables, Gerald Funches, Sonny Holt Stables, Joe Lester, Joel Nipper Stables, Newton Parks, Bobby Richards of The Colt Center, Ken Taylor, Link Webb Stables and Jack Wilson.

This highlights the events from the Children’s Miracle Network Horse Show. Complete results may be viewed or printed by clicking here.