Lewisburg, TN - The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ And Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) is no longer a member of the Unity Committee. The reasoning behind this action was primarily based on a desire to see the leadership of the industry in the hands of only membership driven organizations such as the Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA), the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA) and the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ And Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA).

It was felt by many on the board and by many members that expressed their concerns, that it was inappropriate for a private organization, such as the Celebration, to be included as part of this committee. Furthermore, concerns were expressed over the fact that the Celebration is the parent organization for the HIO SHOW and that through the Celebration, SHOW has a voice on the committee that no other HIO was granted. TWHBEA continues its commitment to working with all organizations to promote our great horse.

According to TWHBEA President Marty Irby, “This decision has been contemplated for quite some time and the majority of our board felt this was the right thing to do. I, personally, voted for the motion and truly feel it was the right thing to do.”