Walking On Volume 3, Issue 2, February 2016 | Page 8

Bits and Pieces Banquet Reflections The WHOA Annual Banquet once again proved to be a wonderful opportunity to renew acquaintances with our walking horse friends from around the United States. Some folks traveled many miles to get their well-deserved High Point Awards. Their winning reflected many long hours in the saddle perfecting their horse’s gaits and maneuvers. It also accounted for the many long miles driven to earn the points necessary to achieve the honors bestowed upon them at the WHOA Banquet. From the smiles around the well-filled room it was worth their efforts. Driving home proved to be a challenge for several as snow had begun sometime during the night and was not a pleasant experience for our north and northeast bound participants. So very glad to know you all made it home safely. The WHOA Quest Program  is a nationwide high point program. This program is co sponsored by the Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA) and the Walking Horse Report. The Quest  Program is one that honors the achievements of Youth and Amateur Riders. The Quest is a high point Incentive program that works much like the trainers Riders Cup program. Amateur and Youth Riders who are members of WHOA may compete in The Quest. Riders’ points from any show that provides the Walking Horse Report with their show results within 30 days will be awarded. According to WHOA Director, Tommy Hall, “The Quest awards the overall top riders in the Walking Horse industry. This is another way that we can honor the show ring achievements of our members. We already recognize the top horses in our industry and their owners with our National High Point Program and Register of Merit Program. The Quest gives us a chance to salute the most successful riders.” Tommy Hall also points out that in the Quest the points follow the rider, no matter which class or division they are showing in, as long as the class is designated as youth or amateur. The Quest awards the top ten riders in four different divisions. Point standings in The Quest are available in mid-June on the Walking Horse Report and WHOA websites. For this year’s results check out our coverage of the WHOA banquet later in this issue. –Sis Osborne We Want To Hear From You! Bits and Pieces is the place to share YOUR NEWS! Did you get a new horse? Did you go on an awesome trail ride? Did you promote your breed or discipline? Did you win a year-end award? Did you have a fantastic show or competition? WE WANT TO HEAR ALL ABOUT IT! Send your news to Sis at [email protected] and share it with the world. 8 • Walking On