MURFREESBORO, TENN -- The Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA) and the Tenneseee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) have announced that they will be co-sponsoring the 2008 Tennessee Walking Horse Academy Program.  Shows that were previously scheduled by each association will now be hosted under the joint WHOA/TWHBEA banner .  A total of nine shows will held throughout the winter with the Academy Championship Show scheduled for March 22nd, during the National Walking Horse Trainers’ Show, at Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville, Tennessee.
    
This year’s academy show circuit will kick off on January 5th in Bowling Green, KY, with other shows scheduled in Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina.  There is also a lucrative incentive program for riding instructors who bring students to the shows.  The instructor with the most total students participating will receive a $2,000 award, second place will receive $1,500 and third place will receive $1,000.
    
“This is a great way to introduce new riders to our breed,” says Tommy Hall, WHOA executive director.  “We should all support the Tennessee Walking Horse Academy Program.”   Connie Hess, TWHBEA executive committee member, echoed Hall’s sentiments and added, “I’m pleased that everyone has come together to support this important program.  Our thanks to the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association for allowing us to host our Academy Championships at their show in March.”
    
WHOA and TWHBEA are looking for volunteers to help in putting on the 2008 Academy Shows.  Anyone interested in helping should call the WHOA academy chairperson, Harolene Willis at 931-205-7800.
    
A list of 2008 academy shows and a class schedule is available from WHOA by calling 615-494-8822 or can be downloaded from www.walkinghorseowners.com.