Walking On Volume 6, Issue 3, March 2019 | Page 12

WHOA Academy and Schooling Show
March 16, 2019 • Shelbyville, Tennessee
Pleasant Valley was the site of the
first WHOA Academy/ Schooling
show for the season. A brisk sunny,
windy day was a welcome sight for
the rain that had prevailed for what
seemed like a month. The horses
turned out in strength, no doubt
enjoying the sunshine as much as
their riders. It is always chancy when
the weather had been so horrible for
so long but the folks came to show
and the horses looked remarkably
good.  The young horses were amaz-
ing for this time of year or at least I
thought so! 
Starting the morning off was a
Judges’ Clinic Session.
There were 12 Judges assembled
to go over the current WHOA Rules
with WHOA President, Rhonda
Martocci and WHOA CEO, Tom-
my Hall. Following the discussion on rules the Judges then stayed
and turned in judging cards for
the entire show. The “experienced”
judges that were renewing their
licenses expressed their pleasure at
this different and unique experience.
A platform was in the middle of
the arena thus the judges that were
renewing, could get the same view
as the “official” judge, Richard Wall
without conferring or interfering
with his work.  The arrangement
appeared to work very well.
Judge Wall did his usual excellent
job and was presented with REAL-
LY nice horses for this early in the
season, especially with the horrible
weather conditions we have expe-
rienced for months.  The young
horses were amazing.  I can only
imagine the classes when warm, dry
weather arrives as most of the young horse classes had at least five GOOD
entries vying for a blue ribbon. I was
totally impressed with the display of
walking talent.
Speaking of youngsters, our
WHOA two legged variety filled
their classes and did an admirable
job of riding. Personally, I wish more
youngsters would participate in the
Academy Program. It is an excel-
lent way to start your show career
and learn at the same time while
exhibiting with others of the same
skill level.  I am a big advocate of the
Academy Program.
The first WHOA Academy/
Schooling Show was a success. The
Judging Session prior to the show
was another excellent accomplish-
ment.  All in all, a T total great
adventure.
– Sis Osborne
Yearling Fillies & Geldings and Amateur
Yearlings victor I’m Unforgettable with
Brian Wright and Amanda Wright. Open Trail Pleasure English/Western win-
ner He’s Outta Here with Bailey Momb for
Shriley Davis. Pictured with Rivers Simms,
the best ribbon presenter EVER!! Model Youth and Showmanship plus Flat
Shod Academy 17 & Under winners Obey
My Command and Corbin Parker
12 • Walking On