As a Tennessean I am disturbed that you once again have decided to display a Big Lick horse this year.  

People around the country and the world have spoken. We do not want to see Big Lick horses perform. The small handful of people who enjoy watching Big Lick is by far outnumbered by educated horseman. Even the public who does not understand much about horses sees the grotesque "gait" for what it is.

Big Lick has been abolished by so many venues, including the North Carolina State Fair in 2015, and at all Homecoming games at the University of Tennessee starting in 2012.

There is currently a Rule change propsed by the APHIS division of the USDA to abolish stacks and chains.  The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners condemn the practice of soring and want to see the stacks and chains abolished as well.  

Being a popular annual family event, I see that many equine related shows and demonstrations are planned that promote good horsemanship, natural humane training and proper horse care and welfare which should be the focus.  Displaying and demonstrating a Big Lick horse only brings a show of abuse which has no place when educating children. Cannot have a Big Lick horse without abuse.  I don't think that is what you want to teach children as a family oriented fun and educational event.   

Please take the correct stand and do not display a Big Lick horse at your fair.