Maiden Holdings LLC was formed with a goal to foster the growth of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed. Under new ownership, each event hosted by Maiden Holdings will seek to continue supporting young horses in various divisions and disciplines throughout the year.

Since the inaugural Maiden Championship in 2019, success of that single class lead to call outs for variations. 2023 saw the debut of the All Day Pleasure Challenge offering young horses a multi-phase competition in the breed’s largest division in the country. 2024 brought what the Walking Horse industry has wanted for years - a class for unshown 3-year-olds called The Premiere!

We at Maiden Holdings are simultaneously proud of our history and excited for the future. It is only through support of people within the Walking Horse industry that events like this are possible. Please take time to browse this site as well as the Facebook page to learn all about our vision as well as the next event on the calendar!

MHLLC History

Jessica Mast and Kyle Elliott of Shelbyville, Tennessee first brought the concept for The Maiden to the Walking Horse Owners’ Association in 2019. With WHOA providing administrative support, Kyle and Jessica steadily grew the event year after year. In 2023, their efforts led to the formation of Maiden Holdings, LLC to oversee all aspects of event management with the help of dedicated volunteers.

In 2025, David Williams and Chris Elliott purchased MHLLC, stepping in with a renewed passion and forward-thinking vision for the future of the program. Under their leadership, Maiden Holdings continues to expand its reach and impact, hosting events that celebrate excellence, sportsmanship, and opportunity for young horses across the industry.

David, Chris, and the entire MHLLC team remain deeply committed to providing an exciting, meaningful avenue for showcasing the next generation of talent — a legacy they are proud to grow and elevate year after year.