SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – Prior to the beginning of The Spring Fun Show the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA) held a general membership meeting on May 25, 2010 at the WHTA office. The meeting was called to order at 4:19 pm with a prayer led by President Winky Groover. Thirty-three members and guests were present.
Dr. Steve Mullins and Tony Edwards of SHOW were present for the meeting. Mullins reported on his recent trip to Washington D.C. He also spoke with Dr. Gipson and Dr. Cesar who introduced him to Dr. Corker.
Rollie Beard, director of judges, was on hand for the meeting. Beard brought up the point that if trainers have an amateur, juvenile or if they themselves ask to be excused, they need to wait on the grass until the judge of the class turns in a card. At this point, Mullins interjected, “If you leave the ring for any reason at all during a class you must report back to inspection.”
Wayne Dean provided the financial report. The WHTA currently has two CDs with approximate values of $19,700 and $43,200. Dean also reported that the Trainers’ Show had an expense of approximately $73,200 and an income of $146,300.
Jeffrey Howard with The Walking Horse Report was on hand to give an update on the Riders’ Cup Program. “The program is doing well, but it is lacking in sponsorships,” said Howard. The program has doubled in divisions from five to 10 from 2009 to 2010. Howard also stated, “There are currently eight remaining sponsorships available with a lot of benefits for a sponsor.” Molly Walters has since committed to the program leaving seven available sponsorships.
David Landrum spoke of the earlier discussion of moving the annual Trainers’ Banquet from the Cool Springs Marriott in Franklin, Tenn. Landrum stated a recommendation of the Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro, Tenn., was brought to his attention, but they couldn’t match the rate provided by the Marriott. At this point, the Marriott is booked through 2011.
President Winky Groover complimented the trainers on their hard work and the presentation of the horses. The meeting was then adjourned.