The History of The National

The National Walking Horse Association, founded in 1998, has become synonymous for advocating and promoting the exhibition of the Sound Horse. Through two decades of Sound Principles, compliance and dedication, the NWHA has become one of the most trusted and reputable organizations providing equitable horse shows for the Walking, Spotted Saddle and Racking Horses.

After only three years in existence, the NWHA, a nationwide alliance of horse people committed to the promotion of the sound Walking Horse’s natural abilities, embarked on a mission to restore the dignity of the breed. In late September 2001, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley of Lexington, Virginia, The National – NWHA Championship Horse Show would place the first floral horseshoe garlands around the necks of what would begin a legacy of National Grand Champions. 

The Virginia Horse Center provided the backdrop for the 1st annual, National over the span of three exciting days comprised of 104 classes across three divisions. A judging panel consisting of three NWHA judges tied the classes through eight places, crowning just 20 National Grand Champions. The show remained in VA for the 2nd and 3rd annual National with each year, the class list grew, additional days of competition were needed, and increases of entries and divisions caused reevaluation of the show’s location. In 2004, it was evident that a new venue to accommodate the development of the show was required for continued success. Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, Tennessee was selected and would become the home of The National for the next seven years, 2004 – 2011.  The National exceeded 900 entries in only its 4th year of competition in 2004. The National growth continued to soar with 1,750 entries in 2007 representing exhibitors from 25 states – half of America! The show bill has since surpassed 200 classes and maintains a full week of showing. The National has been held in Wilmington, Ohio (2012), Memphis, TN (2017-2018) and several residencies at Calsonic Arena (2013-2016, 2019-2020) in Shelbyville, Tennessee. 

The National has paid it forward and given back through a variety of charitable causes – The Wounded Warrior Program, The Fisher House, Horse Haven of Tennessee and others. The show has accommodated evacuees in the wake of Hurricane Florence in 2018 which wreaked havoc on the U.S. Eastern seaboard. Each year the show highlights the outstanding dedication and commitments of the organization’s Pegasus and Phoenix award recipients. These NWHA members have been voted upon by the membership and receive the distinguished honor of carrying the colors of our Nation during opening and closing ceremonies at The National. 

During twenty years of The National, many changes have occurred from the location, the competition, – the judges, activities and exhibitor parties, special guests and more. Each year is special and invokes a unique feeling and experience. From the heartaches to the celebrations, The National represents great pride and accomplishment and pays tribute to honest competition and humane horsemanship.” “…and as we recognize the truest and best of the Walking Horse breed during the show, we celebrate what is good.” (C. Fenner, NWHA President, 2001). 

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