TWHYA is continuing its commitment to fostering youth engagement in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry through its Youth Activity Grant Program, awarding funds to several affiliated horse shows in 2026. These grants are designed to create fun, educational, and memorable experiences for young exhibitors and attendees.
So far this year’s grant recipients represent a diverse lineup of shows, each incorporating creative activities aimed at building camaraderie and encouraging participation among youth:
Four Beats for Pleasure All Around Gaited Extravaganza (April 10–12, 2026 | Lumberton, N.C.) hosted a pizza party and ice cream social, complete with horse trivia and interactive games.
Upper Cumberland Walking Horse Show
(May 9, 2026) is hosting a youth pizza party.
Spring Fun Show (May 21–23, 2026) will feature a youth judging contest and an ice cream sundae bar.
Bluegrass Pleasure Walking Horse Association Show (June 20, 2026 | Brodhead, Ky.) plans a “make your own rope halter and lead” activity.
One of the first completed grant activities took place at the Four Beats for Pleasure All Around Gaited Extravaganza, where the impact of the program was already evident. Thanks in part to the TWHYA Youth Grant, the event became more than just a competition, it transformed into a celebration of camaraderie, fun, and shared passion for gaited horses.
A highlight of the weekend was a lively pizza and ice cream party hosted by Joni Henderson and Erin Demchko. Youth participants tested their knowledge in a horse trivia contest, with Ford Applewhite and Gabby Preast taking top honors. The fun continued with a crowd-favorite blindfolded bridle pairs race, where teamwork and communication were key. Ford Applewhite and Judy Hadley ultimately claimed victory.
The atmosphere throughout the event was filled with laughter, energy, and community spirit. While competition remained important, it was the friendships formed and memories created that left the greatest impression. Events like this demonstrate how youth-focused programming can strengthen the sense of community that defines the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.
How to Apply for a Youth Activity Grant
TWHYA encourages additional horse shows to take advantage of the $250 Youth Activity Grant Program, which supports creative and engaging youth initiatives.
Eligible activities may include ice cream socials, pizza parties, judging contests, scavenger hunts, educational workshops, or other innovative ideas that promote youth involvement.
To qualify, horse shows must:
Be affiliated with the TWHBEA International High Point Program
Submit a completed Youth Activity Grant Application
Provide event photos and a short written recap suitable for publication in The VOICE magazine
Grant funding is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no application deadline. Payment is issued after submission of the required photos and recap.
Applications and supporting materials should be emailed to programs@twhbea.com.
TWHYA remains dedicated to supporting and growing youth participation within the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and looks forward to partnering with horse shows nationwide to create meaningful, engaging experiences for the next generation.
For more info, contact programs@twhbea.com.
