Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association

Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association
Location of the TWHBEA within the state of Tennessee
Abbreviation TWHBEA
Predecessor Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' Association
Formation 1935
Purpose Registration of Tennessee Walking Horses
Location
Services Registration, membership
Slogan "The Ride of Your Life"
Website twhbea.com

The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (abbreviated TWHBEA) is the oldest breed association for the Tennessee Walking Horse. It was founded in 1935 and is headquartered in Lewisburg, Tennessee.

History

The TWHBEA was founded in 1935 in Lewisburg, Tennessee for the purpose of registering Tennessee Walking Horses and maintaining their bloodlines.[1][2] The association was originally named the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' Association, but was renamed in 1974 to cover the popular show industry. The TWHBEA closed the studbook in 1947, meaning that after that date horses were required to have two registered parents before they themselves could be registered.[3] As of 2016, the TWHBEA has registered approximately 500,000 horses,[4] and has approximately 19,000 members.[5]

Registration

Only purebred Tennessee Walking Horses are eligible for TWHBEA registration. Beginning January 1, 2007, all foals must be DNA tested to verify their parentage before they are issued registration papers. An individual does not have to be a member of the TWHBEA to register a horse with the group.[6] Although registration had been down since 2004, due to a slow economy and soring allegations, 2015 saw a 7.9% increase in foal registration.[7]

Competition

The TWHBEA has a variety of programs through which horses can earn points and awards, including distance, competitive trail, versatility, and specific programs for mares or geldings. Individuals who wish can become certified as riding instructors through the TWHBEA. The TWHBEA publishes the Voice magazine six times per year.[8]

References

  1. ↑ Harris, Moira C.; Langrish, Bob (2003-01-01). America's Horses: A Celebration of the Horse Breeds Born in the U. S. A. Globe Pequot. ISBN 9781585748228.
  2. ↑ Green, Sara (2011-01-01). The Tennessee Walking Horse. Bellwether Media Inc. ISBN 9781600146602.
  3. ↑ Lacey, Theresa Jensen (2000-10-19). Amazing Tennessee: Fascinating Facts, Entertaining Tales, Bizarre Happenings, and Historical Oddities about the Volunteer State. Thomas Nelson Inc. ISBN 9781418573478.
  4. ↑ "TWHBEA - Association". www.twhbea.com. Retrieved 2016-03-24.
  5. ↑ "The Tennessee Walking Horse". International Museum of the Horse. Retrieved 10 June 2016.
  6. ↑ "TWHBEA - FAQ". www.twhbea.com. Retrieved 2016-03-24.
  7. ↑ "TWHBEA leader thinks industry has turned the corner". Shelbyville Times-Gazette. Retrieved 2016-03-24.
  8. ↑ "TWHBEA - Association". www.twhbea.com. Retrieved 2016-03-24.
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