TWHBEA of WA

* * * * * * * * * * * ­­­­­­­­­­­

Complete copy of rules available here: 2008 WIWHA Rulebook. Keep in mind there have been updates and changes so be sure to also visit www.wiwha.com.

The Western International Walking Horse Association “WIWHA” was organized and incorporated February 8, 1980. It is composed of five directors and an alternate from each of the Pacific Northwest member clubs and groups. The officers and directors of WIWHA serve on a volunteer basis receiving no reimbursement other than some expenses when approved. The corporation objectives are to promote all aspects of the Tennessee Walking Horse both, as a breed as well as the Walking Horse Industry. These objectives include, but are not limited to sponsorship and affiliation of shows, exhibitions and/or competitions for this breed; obtaining certification by the United States Department of Agriculture to train and license Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) to inspect Walking Horses; to license qualified persons to serve as judges at Walking Horse exhibitions and competitions; to administer and execute rules, regulations and sanctions concerning the conduct and activities of owners, exhibitors, trainers and breeders of Walking Horses, to the extent that said conduct and or activities relate to Walking Horse shows, exhibitions and/or competitions, or to the extent that said conduct pertains to the classification, conduct and operation of shows, or to general matters affecting exhibitors., Judges, DQPs and show officials. Finally, to do all such lawful acts and things necessary or proper to promote the general welfare of the Walking Horse Industry, for the accomplishment of any objectives set forth herein, or any other objectives which shall be recognized as proper and lawful for such a trade association.

The WIWHA was formed as a result of Pacific Northwest Walking Horse owners, exhibitors and interested groups joining together to promote the Walking Horse in areas where a local organization was limited. Early in the formation of WIWHA, the Association was certified by the United State Department of Agriculture, as were other groups in the Midwest and Tennessee, to regulate our walking horse industry as required by the Horse Protection Act (HPA) and to conduct training workshops for the DQP program. Western International, in cooperation with the National Regulatory Association (now known as National Horse Show Commission), train and provide knowledgeable and qualified DQPs. Shows that affiliate with WIWHA are provided with DQPs and any other assistance that is needed without additional cost to the exhibitor or show management.