Ebony’s True Grit: 1975 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Ebony’s True Grit, a stunning deep bay stallion, became the 1975 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, solidifying his place in the breed’s history. His victory was the culmination of years of perseverance, dedication, and careful planning by his trainers, owners, and supporters. Known for his stamina, power, and natural walking ability, Ebony’s True Grit left an indelible mark on the Tennessee Walking Horse world.

Pedigree and Early Life

Ebony’s True Grit was foaled in the spring of 1967 in Westmoreland, Tennessee. His pedigree was impeccable, combining two legendary bloodlines:

Sire: Ebony Masterpiece, the 1962 World Grand Champion
Dam: Midnight Irene, a mare by Midnight Sun, the only two-time World Grand Champion (1945, 1946).

Bred by Gene Davis, Ebony’s True Grit inherited the best traits from his lineage, making him a natural contender for greatness.

Early Career

Ebony’s True Grit’s early show career was marked by starts and stops. Shown sparingly as a two-year-old by his breeder, Gene Davis, he was later sold to Billy Hale of Gallatin, Tennessee. Under Billy Hale’s ownership, True Grit began to show promise:

1971: He was the Reserve World Champion Junior Stallion, signaling his potential as a future champion.
Later that year, Billy Hale sold him to Long Leaf Farms, owned by Mr. and Mrs. Monroe Plemmons and Mr. and Mrs. Roy Wilcox of Chatom, Alabama, and Shelbyville, Tennessee.

Challenges and Comebacks

True Grit’s journey to the top was not without setbacks. His career was interrupted by injury and changes in training:

1972: True Grit’s season was cut short due to tendonitis, keeping him off the show circuit for most of the year.
1973: He returned to competition under the direction of Preach and Joe Fleming, trainers at Long Leaf Farms.

Despite these challenges, True Grit continued to improve, and by 1974, he was the Reserve World Grand Champion, narrowly missing the ultimate title.

The Championship Year: 1975

In 1975, changes were made to help True Grit reach his full potential. Young Joe Fleming was put in the saddle, and together, they set out on a carefully planned campaign to claim the World Grand Championship.

Key Wins Leading to the Celebration

Jackson, Mississippi: Tied second in their first show as a team. This would be the last time True Grit tasted defeat.
Columbia Spring Jubilee: Secured a victory, signaling their readiness for the season.
Smyrna and Tennessee State Horse Show: Continued their winning streak.
Belfast, Tennessee: Won the final pre-Celebration show, solidifying their status as top contenders.

The 1975 Celebration

On the big stage at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, Ebony’s True Grit proved his worth:

Preliminary Aged Stallion Class: Won decisively on Wednesday night.
Grand Championship: On Saturday night, True Grit and Joe Fleming delivered a flawless performance, earning the title of 1975 World Grand Champion.

Their victory was the result of years of hard work, faith, and determination, making it one of the most memorable wins in the history of the Celebration.

Retirement and Legacy

Shortly after his historic win, it was announced that Ebony’s True Grit would retire from competition. His formal retirement ceremony took place at the Southern Championship Show in Montgomery, Alabama. He then began his career as a breeding stallion, standing at stud to pass on his exceptional qualities to future generations.

Legacy

Stamina and Power: True Grit was known for his endurance and strength, qualities that made him a consistent performer throughout his career.
Natural Ability: His smooth, natural gait and walking ability set him apart from his peers.
Influence on the Breed: As a breeding stallion, True Grit became an asset to the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, passing on his remarkable traits to his offspring.

Key Takeaways

Impressive Pedigree: Sired by Ebony Masterpiece and out of Midnight Irene, True Grit’s bloodlines were among the best in the breed.
Perseverance: Despite injuries and setbacks, he overcame challenges to achieve the ultimate title.
Consistent Excellence: Known as one of the most consistent horses in the industry, he rarely faltered in competition.
1975 World Grand Champion: His victory at the Celebration was the pinnacle of a long and carefully managed career.

Ebony’s True Grit’s story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in his potential. His legacy as the 1975 World Grand Champion and a foundation stallion continues to inspire the Tennessee Walking Horse community.