The South Carolina Walking Horse Association (SCWHA) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2012 annual scholarships. The SCWHA awards two scholarships annually. This year due to donations made in the memory of Mrs. Mary Hinson to the scholarship fund each recipient will receive a scholarship of $1050.00. The recipients this year are Victoria Taylor Bradley and Nelson Butler Gibbons.

Taylor Bradley is the daughter of Kenneth and Carolyn Nations of Easley, SC. She will be a rising senior this year at Clemson University in Clemson. Taylor became associated with Tennessee Walking Horses in 2005. She has assisted at several shows throughout the state. She says that her heart has been touched by the generosity of the members of the state and local walking horse associations for the various charities to which they give. These donations have affected her especially because her nephew was born with cancer. Taylor is involved with several organizations at Clemson where she is studying genetics. She hope to further her education in the Graduate Genetic Program at Clemson after her undergraduate graduation in May, 2013.

Nelson Gibbons is the son of Al and Marie Gibbons of New Zion, SC. He is a graduate of Manning High School and looks forward to attending Francis Marion University this fall. Nelson has always been fascinated with horses and took his first riding lessons at the Alcolu Equestrian Center. His first Tennessee walking horse was a 16 year old mare named Beam’s Sonic Spirit that his parents purchased for him from Stan Tindal Stables. He later changed her name to Cocoa. Nelson went to work for Stan at his stables. This is when he began his show career, showing in the juvenile classes. Nelson feels that working with and riding Tennessee walking horses has taught him good sportsmanship, patience, confidence, perseverance, and a positive attitude toward life. He is sure these traits will serve him well as he pursues his future endeavors.

The South Carolina Walking Horse Association wishes both of these recipients much success in their educations and their careers.