Another Masterpiece: 1974 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Another Masterpiece, a jet-black stallion of exceptional size and beauty, earned his place in Tennessee Walking Horse history by becoming the 1974 World Grand Champion. Known for his natural talent, stamina, and striking appearance, he captured the hearts of fans and judges alike, dominating his division during his championship year.

Pedigree and Early Life

Another Masterpiece was the result of a meticulously planned breeding program by Billy Hale, who owned both his sire and dam. His pedigree combined some of the finest bloodlines in the Tennessee Walking Horse breed:

Sire: Ebony Masterpiece, the 1962 World Grand Champion
Dam: Pride’s Elegant Lady, a mare by Pride of Panola

Foaled in Gallatin, Tennessee, this colt showed promise from an early age. His impressive size—standing 17 hands tall and weighing approximately 1,250 pounds—was matched by his natural talent and physical beauty. Despite his large stature, he was considered one of the most attractive champions of his time.

Early Career

As a two-year-old, Another Masterpiece tied Reserve in the Two-Year-Old Class of the Breeders’ Futurity with Bud Seaton in the saddle.
His career truly began to take shape under the ownership of Henry Moore of Monroe, Ohio, who purchased him from Billy Hale and placed him in training with Jay Cobb.

Rise to Stardom

Under Jay Cobb’s guidance, Another Masterpiece’s talent was carefully developed. Jay ensured the horse was not pushed too hard as a young competitor, allowing him to reach his full potential.

Junior World Grand Champion (1972)

In 1972, Another Masterpiece won the Junior World Grand Championship, showcasing his natural ability and setting the stage for future success.

Aged Competition (1973)

Competing in the aged division for the first time in 1973, Another Masterpiece won the Aged Stallion Class and tied third in the Grand Championship at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.

The Championship Year: 1974

After the 1973 Celebration, Another Masterpiece was moved to the Ronnie Spears Stables, where he underwent rigorous preparation for the next season. Ronnie Spears and Another Masterpiece quickly formed a strong partnership, embarking on a challenging circuit of horse shows to prepare for the 1974 Celebration.

Key Wins Leading to the Celebration

Montgomery Southern Championship (1973): Closed the season with a victory in the Aged Stallion Class.
Walking Horse Trainers National Show (1974): Won the Championship, starting the year off strong.
Spring Celebration Fun Show (1974): Secured another victory in the Stallion Class.
Belfast One-Night Horse Show (1974): Dominated the competition in his final tune-up before the Celebration.

The 1974 Celebration

In the Aged Stallion Class, Another Masterpiece delivered a flawless performance, earning first-place ties on all three judges’ cards.
In the Grand Championship, he once again dominated, securing unanimous first-place ties from all three judges to claim the title of 1974 World Grand Champion.

This victory marked the culmination of a determined effort to win the most prestigious title in the Tennessee Walking Horse world.

Retirement and Legacy

Following his triumphant wins at the Celebration, it was announced that Another Masterpiece would stand at stud at S.W. Beech and Sons Stables in Belfast, Tennessee. He remained there for the rest of his life and was later buried on the property, leaving behind a legacy as one of the breed’s all-time greats.

Career Highlights

Junior World Grand Champion (1972)
Aged Stallion Class Winner (1973, 1974)
1974 World Grand Champion at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration
Dominated his 1974 season, earning unanimous first-place ties in both the Aged Stallion Class and the Grand Championship.

Key Takeaways

Impressive Pedigree: Sired by Ebony Masterpiece, the 1962 World Grand Champion, and out of Pride’s Elegant Lady.
Physical Excellence: At 17 hands and 1,250 pounds, Another Masterpiece was both imposing and beautiful, a rare combination for a horse of his size.
Unmatched Performance: Known for his natural ability and stamina, he was a dominant force in his division, culminating in his 1974 World Grand Championship.
Enduring Legacy: Another Masterpiece is remembered as one of the most physically attractive and talented Tennessee Walking Horses of all time.

Another Masterpiece’s journey from a promising colt to a celebrated champion exemplifies the dedication, skill, and passion that define the Tennessee Walking Horse world. His legacy continues to inspire breeders, trainers, and fans alike.