Copyright WHR 2006

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. - The Walking Horse Trainers Association has announced the appointment of Charles Terry as an adviser to the organization effectively immediately, announced David Landrum, board president. In addition, the association has also contracted with Franklin, Tenn.-based Alday Communications, Inc. to provide public relations services.

In his role as adviser, Terry will work closely with the Walking Horse Trainers Association to develop and implement a strategic plan. This will include public education, government relations and a marketing initiative to better communicate the efforts of trainers both inside and outside of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.

“Charles Terry has been a long-time friend of the Walking Horse trainers. He has both the skills and relationships we need to strengthen our organization so that we have a strong voice in the future of our industry,” said Landrum. “Our decision to bring on Charles and Alday Communications goes beyond what happened at one show. We need to make sure we have a direction that ensures the long-term viability of our association and our sport.”

Terry is a founding partner of the Morristown, Tenn., law firm of Terry, Terry & Stapleton. Since being admitted to the Bar in 1957, he has received numerous prestigious awards and recognition. He and his wife, Florence, have been actively involved in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry as breeders and owners.

“I am taking on this new challenge because I love the Tennessee Walking Horse and I have a deep admiration for the trainers,” said Terry. “This group is dedicated to the welfare of the horse and that often gets overlooked. I want to work with the association to make sure that the industry, the general public and the government understand that our licensed trainers are dedicated to training these wonderful animals in a humane and ethical manner.”

At its board meeting on September 7, the Walking Horse Trainers Association appointed a committee consisting of trainers to assist Terry in creating the strategic plan. This committee includes:

Leigh Bennett, Bowling Green, Kent.;

Allan Callaway, Shelbyville, Tenn.;

Wink Groover, Longview, Texas;

Justin Jenne, Shelbyville, Tenn.;

Mack Motes, Eagleville, Tenn.; and

Link Webb, Lewisburg, Tenn.

Terry will also work closely with Alday Communications to create a communications program for the association. Alday Communications has significant experience in the sports industry and with associations such as The PGA of America and Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association.

“Mike Alday and his group will help us improve our communications to our members, to constituents in the Walking Horse industry and to the general public,” said Terry.

Based in Shelbyville, the Walking Horse Trainers Association was founded in 1968. Its mission is to promote and develop activities on behalf of and in the interest of the members of its association. More information can be found at www.walkinghorsetrainers.com.