Celebrating a Champion: The Legacy of Watch It Now, the 2009 Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion

**Celebrating a Champion: The Legacy of Watch It Now, the 2009 Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion**

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, held annually in Shelbyville, Tennessee, is the pinnacle of the walking horse world, where the finest equine athletes compete for the prestigious title of World Grand Champion. In 2009, amidst a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation, a striking black stallion named *Watch It Now* etched his name into the annals of history, earning the coveted title alongside his skilled trainer, Jimmy McConnell.

### A Night to Remember

The 2009 Celebration culminated in an electrifying finale on Saturday night, with the crowd on edge as 11 days of competition came to a dramatic close. The World Grand Championship class, open to mares, geldings, and stallions aged five and older, typically features some of the most seasoned and accomplished horses in the industry. This year, however, brought its own surprises. Of the 12 horses competing in the Aged Stallions 15.2 and Over class earlier in the event, only nine advanced to the World Grand Championship, leaving room for trainers to showcase their horses in unexpected ways.

As the eligible entries made their way into the ring under the spotlight, the atmosphere was electric. Fans cheered and rose to their feet, eager to witness greatness. After two intense workouts that tested endurance, elegance, and skill, *Watch It Now* emerged victorious. The crowd erupted in applause as the announcer declared him the new World Grand Champion. Under Jimmy McConnell’s expert guidance, the stallion made his victory pass under the spotlight, a moment that would be remembered for years to come.

### The Making of a Champion

*Watch It Now*, affectionately nicknamed “WIN,” was no stranger to the spotlight. Foaled on March 13, 2003, in Florence, Alabama, he was bred by Jack Littrell and Steve Roberts. WIN’s pedigree was nothing short of exceptional. He was sired by *The Skywatch*, the 1995 3-Year-Old World Grand Champion and a renowned producer of champions. His dam, *Bo-Mar’s Pride of Jubilee*, was a consistent show mare with an impressive lineage. Her offspring with *The Skywatch* include not only WIN but also *Sky Walk*, a World Champion, and *Another Sky Walk*, a Reserve World Champion.

Throughout his career, WIN demonstrated the qualities that define a Tennessee Walking Horse champion: grace, power, and an undeniable presence in the ring. As a five-year-old in 2008, he secured three championship titles and placed fourth in two classes at the Celebration, including the 4-Year-Old World Grand Championship class. In 2009, he further solidified his reputation by earning a Reserve Champion title in the Aged Stallions 15.2 and Over class before claiming the ultimate prize.

### A Partnership Built on Excellence

Trainer Jimmy McConnell played an instrumental role in WIN’s success. A seasoned professional from Formac Stables in Union City, Tennessee, McConnell brought decades of experience to the competition. By 2009, he had already secured two World Grand Championship titles: one in 2004 with *The Black Night Shade* and another in 2007 with *Master of Jazz*. His partnership with WIN marked his third championship in five years, a testament to his skill and dedication.

Reflecting on his long association with the Shelbyville horse show, McConnell remarked that he had attended for over two decades. His expertise and ability to bring out the best in his horses were on full display as he guided WIN to victory in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

### A Champion’s Journey

Throughout his career, *Watch It Now* changed hands several times but always remained under the care of dedicated owners who recognized his potential. Initially owned by Mrs. Jeanne Hyneman of Memphis, Tennessee, WIN later became the property of Joe Barnes of Pigeon Forge and Joe and Cena Martin of Shelbyville. In 2008, Sherry Holland and Mary Dell Kilgore acquired part ownership before he was sold to Bill Johnson of Waterfall Farms in Atlanta, Georgia.

WIN’s success brought immense pride not only to his owners but also to his breeders and fans. His victory at the Celebration was a testament to years of careful breeding, training, and preparation.

### A Legacy Remembered

On January 16, 2021, the walking horse community mourned the loss of *Watch It Now*, who passed away at Rising Star Ranch due to complications from colic. His death marked the end of an era for those who admired his talent and spirit. Despite this loss, WIN’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of Tennessee Walking Horse enthusiasts.

As a champion who embodied grace and determination, *Watch It Now* will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who witnessed his remarkable journey. From his early days as a promising young stallion to his moment of triumph under the spotlight in Shelbyville, WIN’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and passion.

The Tennessee Walking Horse world will always remember *Watch It Now*—a true titan who lived up to his name and left an indelible mark on the sport.