BREAKING NEWS: Justin Jenne, Sam Sorrell, and Newton Parks Voted Top Choices to Judge 2025 WHTA Trainers Show

BREAKING NEWS: Justin Jenne, Sam Sorrell, and Newton Parks Voted Top Choices to Judge 2025 WHTA Trainers Show
February 17, 2025

In a recent poll conducted by WalkingHorseChat.com, the Tennessee Walking Horse community has spoken: Justin Jenne, Sam Sorrell, and Newton Parks emerged as the top three judges fans want to see officiate the 2025 Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA) National Trainers’ Show. With over 96 SHOW HIO judges listed, these three garnered notable support, reflecting their reputations and expertise in the industry1.

The Poll Results

  • Justin Jenne (6%, 61 votes): Jenne, a rising star in the training circuit, recently made headlines for his transition to Waterfall Farms as their Colt Trainer, a role he will assume after the 2025 Celebration15. His hands-on experience and innovative techniques have earned him a loyal following.
  • Sam Sorrell (4%, 37 votes): A seasoned judge, Sorrell’s resume includes roles at prestigious events like the 2021 FAST Spring Showcase, where he evaluated performances alongside industry veterans13. His attention to detail and fairness resonate with exhibitors.
  • Newton Parks (4%, 36 votes): A familiar face at major shows, Parks judged the 2021 WHTA National Trainers’ Show and has consistently been praised for his deep understanding of gait mechanics and breed standards710.

Why These Judges Stand Out

  1. Justin Jenne: Beyond his training accolades, Jenne’s commitment to transparency aligns with the community’s push for accountability.
  2. Sam Sorrell: Known for his methodical approach, Sorrell’s past collaborations with events like the FAST Spring Showcase highlight his versatility and adherence to evolving industry regulations.
  3. Newton Parks: A stalwart in the judging circuit, Parks’ decades of experience and participation in landmark events make him a trusted figure. His repeated selection reflects the community’s respect for his consistency.

Community Engagement and Transparency

The poll’s timing coincides with WalkingHorseChat.com’s newly launched subscription-based “Judges Reviews & Ratings” system, which aims to foster transparency by allowing stakeholders to evaluate judges’ performances6. This initiative likely influenced voters, as Jenne, Sorrell, and Parks have all received positive feedback for their professionalism and impartiality.

Looking Ahead to the 2025 WHTA Trainers’ Show

Slated for March 2025 at Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville, Tennessee, the event will showcase the industry’s top talent. While the WHTA has yet to officially confirm the judging panel, the poll results signal strong community support for this trio.

Industry Reactions:

  • “Jenne’s fresh perspective paired with Sorrell and Parks’ experience would create a balanced panel,” remarked a veteran trainer.
  • Fans took to social media, praising the potential selection: “Parks’ eye for detail is unmatched, and Sorrell always keeps it fair!”

As anticipation builds for the 2025 season, the combination of Jenne’s innovation, Sorrell’s precision, and Parks’ legacy could set a new standard for judging excellence. The WHTA is expected to announce the final panel soon, but for now, the community’s voice has made its preference clear.

Stay tuned to WalkingHorseChat.com for updates on the 2025 WHTA Trainers’ Show and exclusive access to judge reviews