**2021 Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion: Justified Honors**
The 2021 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration marked a significant milestone in the world of equine excellence, with the emergence of Justified Honors as the World Grand Champion. This remarkable stallion, a 17-hand, solid black walking machine, captured the hearts of spectators and judges alike, showcasing unparalleled grace, power, and precision in the show ring. His journey to the pinnacle of the Tennessee Walking Horse world is a testament to careful breeding, dedicated ownership, and expert training.
### The Origins of a Champion
Justified Honors was born on April 30, 2017, the result of a carefully planned breeding between Honors—a prominent sire in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry—and Maypine’s Doll Baby, a mare known for her impressive lineage as a daughter of Lined With Cash. Bred by Dr. Robert C. Watkins, Jr. MD of Chicago Heights, Illinois, the colt initially bore the name Maypine’s Chauncey.
In February 2020, the young stallion changed hands when Jeff Faulkner of Ethridge, Tennessee, purchased him and renamed him Justified Honors. Later that year, Lisa Baum of Shelbyville, Tennessee, acquired the horse and placed him in the show ring under the expert guidance of John Allan Callaway. What followed was a meteoric rise that would leave an indelible mark on the Tennessee Walking Horse community.
### A Stellar Show Record
Justified Honors wasted no time proving his potential on the show circuit. In his first seven outings under Lisa Baum’s ownership, he earned six blue ribbons and one reserve title—a remarkable feat for a young stallion. His consistent performances in 2020 and 2021 solidified his reputation as a top contender.
The following is a summary of his notable achievements:
– **June 4, 2020**: Won the Three-Year-Old Stallions class at the 69th Annual Columbia Spring Jubilee in Columbia, TN.
– **June 25, 2020**: Secured another win in the Three-Year-Old Stallions category at the Spring Fun Show in Shelbyville, TN.
– **August 26, 2020**: Triumphed in the Three-Year-Old Stallions class at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville, TN. He also earned Reserve in the Three-Year-Old World Championship that same day.
– **October 8, 2020**: Won the Three-Year-Old Stallions class at the WHTA National Trainers Show in Shelbyville, TN.
– **May 27, 2021**: Dominated the Four-Year-Old Walking Stallions class at the Spring Fun Show in Shelbyville, TN.
– **July 3, 2021**: Took first place in the Four-Year-Old Walking Horse Open at the Woodbury Lions Club show in Woodbury, TN.
These victories culminated in Justified Honors’ crowning moment at the 2021 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.
### The Road to Glory: World Grand Champion
The highlight of Justified Honors’ career came during the 2021 Celebration in Shelbyville. On Wednesday night, he claimed victory in the Four-Year-Old World Championship, setting the stage for his ultimate triumph. On Saturday night, under the skilled hands of trainer John Allan Callaway, Justified Honors delivered a breathtaking performance to secure the title of World Grand Champion.
This historic win not only underscored his individual brilliance but also marked a significant achievement for his sire, Honors. Justified Honors became the first son of Honors to win the coveted roses—a feat that signals a bright future for this bloodline.
### The Legacy of Honors
The 2021 Celebration also highlighted the growing influence of Honors as a sire. Several of his progeny made their mark during the event. Kobe 24 captured the Three-Year-Old Stallions World Championship, while another Honors offspring, Honor And Remember, secured third place in the same class. These accomplishments underscore the dominance and potential of this lineage in shaping future champions.
Justified Honors’ victory further solidifies Honors’ reputation as a transformative sire in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. The success of his progeny is a testament to their exceptional genetics and versatility.
### The Role of John Allan Callaway
A key figure in Justified Honors’ success story is trainer John Allan Callaway. Known for his expertise and dedication, Callaway has developed a reputation for delivering championship-level performances year after year. His partnership with Justified Honors proved to be a winning combination, culminating in back-to-back World Grand Champion titles. Callaway’s skillful training and ability to bring out the best in his horses have made him a respected figure in the equestrian world.
### A Celebration to Remember
The 2021 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration was an event to behold. Despite challenges posed by a global pandemic and even a hurricane, the caliber of competition remained exceptionally high. The event showcased not only the talent and athleticism of Tennessee Walking Horses but also the dedication and passion of their owners, trainers, and riders.
The victory pass by Justified Honors and John Allan Callaway was a moment of triumph that will be remembered for years to come. As they made their way around the ring to thunderous applause, it was clear that this was more than just a win—it was a celebration of excellence and perseverance.
### Looking Ahead
As Justified Honors continues to bask in his well-deserved glory, attention now turns to what lies ahead for this remarkable stallion. His success has set a high bar for future competitors and has undoubtedly inspired breeders and trainers to aim for similar achievements.
Moreover, as the first son of Honors to claim the roses, Justified Honors has paved the way for his half-siblings to follow suit. With such a strong genetic foundation and proven performance record, it is likely that we will see more champions emerge from this lineage in the coming years.
### Conclusion
The story of Justified Honors is one of careful planning, unwavering dedication, and exceptional talent. From his humble beginnings as Maypine’s Chauncey to his crowning moment as the 2021 World Grand Champion, this stallion has captured the imagination of all who have witnessed his journey. Under Lisa Baum’s ownership and John Allan Callaway’s expert training, Justified Honors has etched his name into Tennessee Walking Horse history—a legacy that is truly “Justified.”
