Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Launches 2025 Banquet Weekend with Leadership Elections, Financial Updates, and Legislative Victories

Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Launches 2025 Banquet Weekend with Leadership Elections, Financial Updates, and Legislative Victories
Franklin, Tenn. — February 14, 2025

Written by: Tommy Williams
email:tommywhc@aol.com
931-492-2825
WHC Publisher-Williams Media Entertainment

The Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA), a cornerstone organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the Tennessee Walking Horse industry, launched its highly anticipated annual banquet weekend on Friday with a dynamic general membership meeting. Held at the Embassy Suites in Franklin, Tennessee, the event drew trainers, breeders, and industry advocates to address critical priorities, including leadership elections, financial strategy, and ongoing legal battles shaping the future of the sport.

New Leadership Takes the Reins
A focal point of the meeting was the election of officers and board members, marking a transition in the association’s leadership. Spencer Benedict, a respected figure in the Walking Horse community with over two decades of experience as a trainer and show judge, was unanimously elected president. Benedict steps into the role previously held by Bill Young, whose three-year tenure as president saw the WHTA navigate unprecedented challenges, including regulatory disputes and public relations efforts to uphold the breed’s legacy.

“Bill’s leadership during some of the most turbulent years in our industry’s history has left the WHTA stronger and more unified than ever,” Benedict acknowledged in his inaugural address. “My focus will be on building that momentum, fostering transparency, and ensuring our voice is heard in legislative arenas.” Young, who received a standing ovation, will remain active as an advisor during the transition.

Joining Benedict on the executive team are Edgar Abernathy, elected First Vice-President, and Clay Sanderson as Second Vice President. Abernathy, a third-generation trainer, emphasized his commitment to mentorship programs for emerging professionals, while Sanderson highlighted goals to expand youth engagement initiatives. Four open board seats were also filled by returning and new members: Rodney Dick, Scott Beaty, RM Kellet, and Brad Beard, each selected for their expertise in show management, advocacy, and breed preservation.

Financial Stability Amid Industry Challenges
Treasurer Wayne Dean delivered an optimistic financial report, revealing the WHTA’s robust fiscal health. The association now manages $259,956acrossitsaccounts,includinga$100,000 certificate of deposit (CD) reserved for long-term stability. Dean noted the horse show account—a fund dedicated to supporting regional and national events—holds $124,838, a figure he attributed to increased sponsorship deals and streamlined event budgets.

“Our financial discipline ensures we can continue advocating for our members, even in uncertain times,” Dean stated. He also hinted at upcoming investments in digital outreach and anti-soring compliance training, aligning with the WHTA’s pledge to prioritize horse welfare.

Legislative Wins and Ongoing Battles
Lobbyist Jeff Speaks energized the room with updates on the WHTA’s legislative triumphs. Most notably, he celebrated a landmark court victory in 2024 overturning a controversial amendment to the Horse Protection Act (HPA) regulations, which many in the industry argued unfairly targeted Walking Horse exhibitors. “This win reaffirms that science and fairness must guide regulation—not misinformation,” Speaks declared.

However, challenges persist. Speaks detailed the House Oversight Committee’s ongoing investigation into the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), scrutinizing its enforcement practices. “We’re cooperating fully, but we’re also holding APHIS accountable for transparency,” he said, urging members to remain vigilant.

Jeffrey Howard provided a progress report on dual lawsuits in Texas and Tennessee, both pivotal to countering regulatory overreach. In Texas, Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk’s recent ruling included language condemning “arbitrary enforcement” of HPA guidelines—a precedent Howard plans to leverage in the Tennessee case, Wright v. USDA. The Tennessee litigation, expected to advance in coming months, challenges the validity of APHIS’s inspection protocols. “The tide is turning,” Howard asserted. “We’re defending not just our traditions, but the rights of responsible horse owners nationwide.”

A Weekend of Celebration and Reflection
The banquet weekend culminates Saturday night with the coveted Horse of the Year awards, honoring standout performers in categories like Pleasure, Trail, and Performance divisions. The gala will also recognize Bill Young’s contributions with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

As attendees gathered for a cocktail reception following Friday’s meetings, optimism permeated the crowd. “This weekend isn’t just about celebration—it’s about unity,” said Benedict. “Together, we’re ensuring the Walking Horse shines for generations to come.”