The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) takes pride in developing activities and programs to meet the needs of our young members. The Youth Medallion Class was introduced four years ago to encourage young riders to learn and become proficient at the canter. With 24 young riders participating this year, competition has been fierce!
This prestigious program offers two distinct honors – the Championship held annually at the National Futurity and the High Point Award presented to the rider accumulating the most points during the year.
Matthew McMurtrey won the 2006 Youth Medallion Championship, receiving the trophy, floral horseshoe, medallion and The Finishing Touch perpetual trophy. This trophy is presented by Erica and Ginger Hartlein in memory of Erica’s great gelding, The Finishing Touch. Erica and Touch won both the Medallion Championship and the Medallion High Point Rider Award. Matthew was riding Your in Command owned by Diane McMurtrey and trained by Southern Comfort Training Center.
Samantha Green was named Youth Medallion High Point Rider and will be honored at the TWHBEA Banquet in December. Riders may use multiple horses throughout the show season, and Samantha has shown Magical Colors, Poncho Impact, and Himself to earn the high point award.
Congratulations to both Matthew and Samantha!
Other placings in the Medallion Championship were:
2. Jacob Baum
3. Audrey Grant
4. Samantha Green
5. Hali Stokes
6. Jacob Keley
7. Haley Lane
8. Michelle Walker
The Youth Medallion Program offers great prize money, a $1,000 scholarship, and lots of other great awards. TWHBEA encourages you to master the canter this winter and participate next year!