For the first time in 68 years, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration did not crown a World Grand Champion in the final class of the world championship horse show.

Several entries were told they would not be allowed to compete in the class after going through the inspection process.  Communication from the inspection area gave strong indications that the eligible entries would not be coming to the showring for the class.

With that information at hand, Celebration officials felt there was no class to call to the ring.

“The past week has seen a range of emotions,” said Celebration Chairman John T Bobo.  “Last Friday night was tough, but tonight we were unable to do what we do best, which is crown world grand champion walking horses.”

A crowd of over 26,000 fans had gathered for the final performance on Saturday night and had seen eleven of the twelve classes on the schedule before the announcement was made that the class would not take place.

“These people have been extremely loyal to our event,” said Bobo.  “It’s heartbreaking to have to make that announcement, but I have no doubt that all sides of this industry will work extremely hard this off-season to rectify the issues that affect it.”