SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It’s one of the mid-state’s biggest traditions and a huge moneymaker for community groups in Bedford county. The Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration is taking place in Shelbyville, bringing thousands of people to the area, but critics want to know why it's continuing in the middle of a pandemic.
"Why in the world are they having the celebration with people gathering, and they’ll say what they will, but they’re gathering, mixing, bringing this COVID-19 to that community and spreading it to other communities, it makes no sense," said Clant Seay with the Citizens Campaign Against "Big Lick" Animal Cruelty.
Four days ago, far from the barns in Shelbyville, the Kentucky Derby made the decision to run their delayed race this year without fans, something critics say they think the celebration should have considered
But the Celebration says the Derby is not the Celebration — with only 3,000 people spread out in a 30,000 seat stadium, with visitors able to be reseated if they feel too close to anyone.
"We can spread out easily at a 10-15 percent capacity and have social distancing without an issue, it's a different type of event," said Celebration CEO Mike Inman.
The Celebration says they have canceled after-parties where social distancing can’t happen, and they say they’ll sanitize the seating areas between each event.
They say all employees will have temperature checks and masks required, and spectators will be strongly encouraged to wear theirs.
"Just the common sense things - if you feel sick, don’t be here, if you are sick, don’t come, and if you are here, abide by good common-sense guidelines," Inman said.
