The Walking Horse Trainers’ Association would like to announce some important changes to the 2026 Horse of the Year Program. World Champions and World Grand Champions will still be automatic nominees however, the program has done away with the three show requirement and has increased the number of nominees in each division from five to eight. The remaining nominees outside of world and world grand champions will be selected from the high point results. Additionally, the association has added two new Horse of the Year divisions that include Amateur Five & Under Show Pleasure and Amateur Five & Under Park Performance. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Horse of the Year Program, please reach out to one of the Committee members which includes Rod Slagle, Chairman, Brad Beard, Laurie Toone and Link Webb.