For nearly 86 years, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been deeply woven into the fabric of the Shelbyville, Tennessee community. To Bedford County and surrounding areas, this isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. Seeing the Celebration’s support of numerous civic groups and bringing together people from all walks of rural life, support of the organization has been an easy choice for the team at Rural 1st. The tradition, pride, and spirit that define these events can’t be replicated, making it a perfect way to further Rural 1st’s mission of Securing the Future of Rural Communities and Agriculture.
Regional Vice President of Rural 1st Sales in Tennessee, Chris Coffey, understands first-hand the impact the Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration has on rural communities and the families that call them home. “My family has been involved with the Tennessee Walking Horse since its inception, even owning one of the first registered walking horses,” Chris shared.
The breed has been integral to his family’s story for generations. Chris’ Grandfather, Berry Coffey, showed at the inaugural Celebration in 1939 and trained 1969 World Grand Champion, B. Major Wilson. Chris continued, “I started showing when I was four years old and won the youth weanling class at the Celebration when I was seven. I still like to compete, but my favorite activity is seeing my wife Nicole and son Landon win world championships of their own.”
Rural 1st helps finance rural property dreams — and as a customer-owned cooperative, they also support organizations that strengthen the communities their customer-owners call home. In 2024 alone, nearly $4.5 million was invested directly into communities, programs and initiatives that demonstrate a living commitment to their purpose.
“Rural 1st has been an invaluable partner to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration and their support has played a significant role in our ability to host a world-class event, year after year,” shared Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration CEO, Warren Wells. “It’s simply impossible to produce a show of this magnitude, with all the tradition, excitement and attention to detail without the backing of exceptional partners like Rural 1st.”
For those looking to finance a rural property in the Middle Tennessee area, Rural 1st Loan Officers Katherine Baxter and Laura Fisher can help turn dreams into reality. Katherine shared, “we understand the unique challenges that come with rural properties. Our team of experienced loan officers live and serve in the same communities as our customers. We’re familiar with properties in our home territories and their unique features; including equestrian properties.”
As the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration looks ahead to the 88th event in 2026, there is no doubt that Rural 1st will continue to serve as a key partner in bringing this time-honored celebration to life for years to come. With a team of rural lending experts like Chris, Katherine and Laura, customers in Tennessee can rest assured that when working with Rural 1st, they’ll be able to celebrate wins in both the show ring and the rural home of their dreams.
Learn more at Rural1st.com, or call the Shelbyville, Tennessee office to get started at 931-684-3291.