Since 1965, the University of Tennessee has honored the Tennessee Walking Horse breed during Homecoming, a tradition that continues today. This year, Moore County’s Jenny Sanders and her nine-year-old mare, Look What You Made Me Do, were selected for this honor. Jenny, a sophomore at MCHS, has competed successfully in 4-H horse competitions at county, regional, and state levels. The rigorous selection process by the UT Extension office requires 4-H members in grades 9-11 to demonstrate extensive involvement in horse projects, public speaking, demonstrations, and submit essays and registration papers for their flat-shod Tennessee Walking Horse.
Jenny was thrilled to be chosen and participated in interviews and video shoots highlighting her and her horse’s achievements. Although her horse could not attend the Homecoming event for safety reasons, Jenny was introduced at Neyland Stadium, and her video was shown on the Jumbotron. Reflecting on her experience, Jenny emphasized the excitement of the event and shared valuable advice for young 4-H participants: the program teaches important life skills such as confidence, teamwork with one’s horse, and resilience in the face of competition outcomes.
