Building the Future of the Tennessee Walking Horse

At Spencer Benedict Stables, we believe the future of the Tennessee Walking Horse is brighter than ever—but it’s up to all of us to ensure it continues to grow. Our breed has always been known for its versatility, beauty, and willing nature. Now, more than ever, we must think outside the box to bring new people into the Walking Horse family and show them just how special these horses truly are.

Thinking Beyond Tradition

Tradition is a cornerstone of our breed, but growth requires innovation. Welcoming new riders, fresh perspectives, and different disciplines will only strengthen the Tennessee Walking Horse’s place in the equine world. Whether someone discovers their love for the breed through a show ring, a trail ride, or a new arena like gaited dressage or trail obstacle, every path is valuable.

Our job as trainers, riders, and owners is to help people connect with the horse that fits their dreams. Sometimes that might be a world championship spotlight; other times it might be a quiet trail through the woods. Both journeys—and every step in between—are worth celebrating.

Inclusion Across All Disciplines

The Tennessee Walking Horse is unique because it offers something for everyone. From Performance classes to Pleasure horses, from Equitation to Trail Obstacle, from Gaited Dressage to casual Trail Riding, each discipline highlights a different strength of our breed.

We don’t all have to participate in every discipline, but we do need to support one another. Respecting and uplifting each rider’s choice of how they enjoy their Tennessee Walking Horse ensures that we remain a strong, united community. After all, our common bond is our love for this breed.

Inviting New People In

The future depends on the next generation of owners, trainers, and enthusiasts. By creating welcoming environments, offering opportunities for learning, and showing the fun and versatility of the Tennessee Walking Horse, we can inspire newcomers to join us.

Let’s invite people not just to watch, but to participate. A child’s first leadline ride, a rider’s first trail class, or a newcomer’s first pleasure horse can be the start of a lifelong passion. Growth begins with that very first experience.

A Shared Responsibility

Building the future of the Tennessee Walking Horse isn’t the job of one stable, one trainer, or one discipline—it’s all of ours. By supporting each other, embracing innovation, and celebrating the diversity within our breed, we ensure that the Tennessee Walking Horse continues to shine for generations to come.

At Spencer Benedict Stables, we are committed to doing our part—training, showing, and sharing the joy of this remarkable horse with anyone ready to experience it. The future is full of possibility, and together, we can make it extraordinary.

~Carrie Benedict