MURFREESBORO, TENN. - May 23, 2007 The Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) is pleased to welcome Dee Dee Sale as its Director of Youth Programs. Originally from Richmond, Kentucky, Dee Dee has a lifelong passion for Walking Horses and youth. "Dee Dee is the perfect fit for this position," says Tommy Hall, WHOA executive director. "With a son of her own, she knows what kids want and has some great ideas of how we can cater to them." David Pruett, WHOA president, echoes Halls comments and adds, "She is not only knowledgeable about our industry, but she has studied what other equine breeds are doing in their youth programs. She is going to be a tremendous asset to WHOA and the youth of our industry."

"Youth are the future of our industry and we've got to find new ways to get them involved and keep them involved," says Sale. "There are so many extracurricular activities these days that compete for their attention. We need creative and fun ways attract youth - not only youth who show horses, but also some who just love being around horses."

As WHOA's Director of Youth Programs, Sale will oversee the Walking Horse Owners' Youth Association (WHOYA) and will serve as chairperson of the WHOA Board's Youth Committee. She has already hit the ground running with youth events planned in the next couple of months. On June 4th - 8th WHOA will host a Summer Youth Camp at Montverde Academy in Montverde, Florida. The camp offers three days of riding instruction by Leigh Bennett and Carol Wakefield along with a trip to Disney World and much more. She has also planned a membership meeting for WHOYA on Saturday, July 28th in Murfreesboro just prior to the kickoff of the International Pleasure and Colt Grand Championship Walking Horse Show.