The TWHBEA Academy Winter Tournament made a triumphant return on February 21 at Pleasant Valley Farm in Shelbyville, Tennessee, marking the first Academy show hosted by TWHBEA in more than a decade. With 49 entries and an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, the Association could not have been more pleased with the outcome.
The show featured a strong group of new riders, many stepping into the show ring for the first time. Family members lined the rail to cheer them on, creating an atmosphere filled with encouragement, excitement, and plenty of smiling faces.
The TWHBEA Academy program is designed to provide a structured, fair, and motivating pathway for developing riders. Its tier system ensures participants advance based on measurable achievement, skill development, and competitive readiness — giving instructors and students a clear framework for growth while building confidence and horsemanship skills.
Keegan Arrington-Meadows served as judge for the event, evaluating classes that highlighted rider progress and fundamentals.
TWHBEA President Amanda Wright praised the success of the show. “We couldn’t be happier with the Academy show held at Pleasant Valley Farm! It was a great way to kick off the show season,” said Wright. “Thank you to all the instructors, volunteers, and sponsors who made this show a success. Hopefully these shows will give instructors an avenue to build their lesson programs and introduce new participants to the amazingly talented Tennessee Walking Horse!”
Participants and spectators enjoyed a free hot lunch compliments of “Rowdy Friends” Tony Edwards and Keith Hayes. The use of the facility was underwritten by What A Horse / Jerry Harris and the Jake Jacobs Family. Stonewall Farm sponsored the ribbons, and 4 the Glory Farm provided medallions for all winning riders. The TWHBEA Academy Program is sponsored by the Thorson Family – ThorSport Farm, Tenda, FarmPaint.com, Equine Surgical Center at ThorSport Farm.
The Winter Tournament series continues March 14 in Bowling Green, Kentucky, followed by the Winter Tournament Championship on March 28 at Cooper Steel Arena in Shelbyville.
With a strong turnout and enthusiastic response, the Academy Winter Tournament has set a positive tone for the 2026 show season and signals a bright future for developing riders within the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.
