Walking On Volume 6, Issue 2, February 2019 | Page 12

WHOA Gala Celebrates 40 Years The Walking Horse Owners Association started the year off with a very successful awards and yearly banquet. This being the 40th year of the Walking Horse Owners Association existence; WHOA made the decision to feature a “40th GALA” at the beau- tiful Sycamore Farm venue in Franklin, Tennessee.  Sycamore Farm features a most interesting Mens Lounge/Room and Ladies Room. The Men’s’ domain consisted of “facilities” PLUS a large TV, Poker Table, Pool Table, Skittles Table, and other desired manly amenities. The Ladies Room was adorned in femi- nine décor PLUS several well - lit vanities and make up stools so we “ladies” could freshen up, several at a time, while we exchanged bits of gossip. There was also a large TV as well as two well-lit dressing rooms in case a lady wanted to change clothes.  Both were well designed and very accommodating. This lovely venue gave the women a chance to dress up and show off their finery.  Very, very elegant women were squired by handsome men dashingly dressed. These transformations made it difficult for me to recognize some of the so very attractive couples as I most often see them in jeans, t shirts, limp hair and sweaty horse hair attire. The brilliant people were fashionably attired and looked terrific as was fitting in the charming Sycamore Farms. Truly a GALA AFFAIR and a fitting celebration of WHOA’S 40th year. A sold out affair, 300 people attended the event and enjoyed the pleasing food catered by Carolyn’s Creations of Christiana, TN. The Versatility Awards launched the program; after they were completed we ate a tasty dinner. The Kentucky High Point Awards preceded the National High Point Awards.  Winners were recognized along with several International Champions and WHOA Special Awards. A complete listing of the night’s winners are listed later in this issue.. A special award that was the brain child of WHOA is the Quest Incentive Award. In May of  2007 The Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA) and the Walking Horse Report announced a program that would honor the achievements of Youth and Amateur Riders.  The Quest is a high point Incentive program. Amateur and Youth Riders who are members of WHOA may compete in The Quest Riders’ Program. Points from any show will count provided the show sends the results to Walk- ing Horse Report within 30 days of the completion of that show. The Quest awards the overall top riders in the Walking Horse industry. The Quest gives WHOA a chance to salute the most successful riders.  In The Quest the points follow the rider, no matter which class or division they are showing in, as long as the class is designated as youth or amateur. The Quest will award the top riders in four differ- Honoring Labeled A Parolee, International Best of Show Canter horse. 12 • Walking On