Photo by Tayhlor Stephenson / Lifestyles Editor
Contributions by Kristen Brothers / Contributing Writer
“Now it’s time to let your walkin’ do the talking,” said announcer Mike Farrar as he introduced the World Grand Champion class.
Seven horses and riders competed in the final class of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, all fighting for the final spotlight ride and title of 2017 World Grand Champion.
Jose’s Power Broker
Rider: Keith Blackbum,
Owner: Dan and Susan Erwin of Olive Hill, Kentucky
I’m Mayhem
Rider: Rodney Dick
Owner: JoAnn Dowell and Susan Coleman of Powell, Ohio and Unionville, Tennessee.
Master’s Razzel & Jazz
Rider: Herbert Derickson
Owner: the Alan Riddley family of Shelby, North Carolina.
Gen’s Black Maverick
Rider: Bill Callaway
Owner: Keith and Lorraine Rosbury of Bell Buckle, Tennessee.
Jose’s Cold Chill
Rider: John Allan Callaway
Owner: LaRue McWaters of Ashford, Alabama.
Incredible Machine
Rider: Blaise Broccard
Owner: Linda Stewart of Olive Branch, Mississippi.
He’s Shady in Black
Rider: Jimmy McConnell
Owner: Richard and Connie Donner of Dyersburg, Tennessee.
After a showdown between Callaway, an MTSU alum, and Broccard, the lone female in the class and clear crowd-favorite amongst the 12,000 in attendance, it was Callaway’s name that echoed from Farrar’s microphone as he announced the winner of the most anticipated class of the Shelbyville-famous horse show.
“I’m a Middle Tennessee grad and hometown Shelbyville guy that (got) a chance to bring the World Grand Championship title right back home,” Callaway said.
Leading up to the World Grand Championship, the Celebration welcomed hundreds of horses and riders and thousands of guests each night from Aug. 24-Sept. 2.
See a full gallery below.
To contact Lifestyles Editor Tayhlor Stephenson, email [email protected].
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