Because of the early closure of the National Celebration show last month, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) will host a show in late November to select a 2006 World Grand Champion.

Jerrold Pedigo, president of the TWHBEA, says that interest in the Tennessee Walking Horse Invitational has been positive.

“The World Grand Champion is the face of our industry for 12 months,” says Pedigo. “Certainly, we’re a lot more than just show horses, we’re trail versatility, and pleasure horses, in all types of disciplines. But we felt it was important not to let a year go by without the ability–and the effort–to have a horse we could recognize as our champion.”

The Celebration was ended early after communication broke down between trainers, owners, private veterinarians, and USDA-appointed horse inspectors over perceived inconsistencies in the inspection process for soring