The Mid-Atlantic Tennessee Walking Horse Association is a non-profit organization for members who own, ride, or admire the Tennessee Walking Horse. The Association was founded on the following principles:

Sound Horses
The Tennessee Walking Horse is a wonderful animal, with a gentle disposition, quick intelligence, and a natural, smooth gait that is a delight for its rider. A number of owners and trainers, however, use illegal means to amplify the natural gaits of the Tennessee Walking Horse. MATWHA believes in, and fully supports, all aspects of the federal Horse Protection Act which prohibits the “soring” of horses to amplify the natural gaits when participating in horse shows. MATWHA believes that the majority of owners, riders and show exhibitors also support the ideals of the sound horse, and is committed to providing an environment where those people can show their horses with other like minded exhibitors.

Fair Competition
MATWHA also supports honest and fair competition in the judging of horse shows - where the natural talent of the Tennessee Walking Horse is the sole criteria used in selecting the winners. Judges at MATWHA shows are trained and licensed by the National Walking Horse Association, a Horse Industry Organization recognized by the federal government as a leader in promoting the cause of the sound horse and fair, honest judging.

Public Education
It is unfortunate that much of the public's impression of the Tennessee Walking Horse is based on the media exposure of the illegal “soring” practices of a group of owners, trainers and exhibitors. As a result of this exposure, the Tennessee Walking Horse, and all the people involved with the breed, have acquired a negative image in the mind of the general public. Yet the vast majority of owners and riders do not “sore” their horses, and do not approve of those that do. MATWHA believes that the public deserves to hear the entire story of the Tennessee Walking Horse; needs to hear that the majority of owners and riders are people who love and admire their horses and do not abuse their horses in any manner. MATWHA provides information to community groups, other associations, etc., in its efforts to provide a true picture of the Tennessee Walking Horse and the people who admire and respect this truly wonderful breed.