GLL’s Carbon Copy: 1964 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

GLL’s Carbon Copy: 1964 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

GLL’s Carbon Copy, a black stallion foaled in the early 1960s, became the 1964 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, earning his place as one of the most celebrated champions in the breed’s history. Known for his exceptional conformation, natural gaits, and unique ability to perform unmounted, Carbon Copy was a perfect model of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed.

Pedigree and Early Life

GLL’s Carbon Copy was bred by Dr. Porter R. Rodgers of Searcy, Arkansas, and his pedigree is a testament to Grand Champion excellence:

  • Sire: Rodgers’ Perfection (1959 World Grand Champion).
    • Rodgers’ Perfection was sired by Midnight Mack K., a three-time Reserve World Grand Champion, who was also by the legendary Midnight Sun.
  • Dam: Midnight Doll, a daughter of Midnight Sun.

With Midnight Sun appearing on both sides of his pedigree, Carbon Copy inherited the natural talent, beauty, and athleticism that would define his career.

Early Show Career

Carbon Copy began his show career with impressive results, quickly establishing himself as a top contender:

  • 1962 Celebration:
    • Tied First Place in the event for Two-Year-Olds.

Following his two-year-old championship, ownership shares in Carbon Copy were sold to Pete Raney, Dr. T.J. Raney of Little Rock, Arkansas, and his trainer, Joe Webb of Searcy, Arkansas.

  • 1963 Celebration:
    • Tied Second Place in the Junior Stallions class.
    • Named Reserve Junior Champion Walking Horse, competing against some of the best horses of the time.

These early accomplishments solidified Carbon Copy’s reputation as a rising star in the Tennessee Walking Horse world.

Training and Unique Abilities

Under the expert guidance of trainer Joe Webb, Carbon Copy developed into a true show-stopping champion. Webb trained him not only for the show ring but also to respond to voice and whistle commands while unmounted. Carbon Copy became famous for entertaining visitors at his training stable with unmounted performances of his three distinct gaits, showcasing his intelligence and natural talent.

Trainer’s Praise

Both Dr. Rodgers and Joe Webb declared Carbon Copy to be a better walking horse than his sire, Rodgers’ Perfection, at the same age. This statement proved true as Carbon Copy’s career progressed, culminating in his World Grand Championship.

1964 Celebration: World Grand Champion

Carbon Copy’s performance at the 1964 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration was nothing short of extraordinary. His natural talent, flawless conformation, and striking presence captivated the audience and judges alike.

Key Achievements

  • Stallion Class Winner:
    Carbon Copy defeated 44 top stallions to win the Stallion Class, demonstrating his dominance in the competition.
  • Stakes Class Champion:
    In the Stakes Class on Saturday night, Carbon Copy defeated 13 other finalists by unanimous vote of all the judges, securing the title of 1964 World Grand Champion.

Retirement and Stud Career

In November 1964, Carbon Copy was purchased by George Lee Lenox of Memphis, Tennessee, and retired from the show ring at the Southern Championship Horse Show in Montgomery, Alabama. Following his retirement, he stood at stud and went on to sire two World Grand Champions:

  1. Shades of Carbon (1976 World Grand Champion).
  2. Mark of Carbon (1978 World Grand Champion).

Legacy as a Sire

Carbon Copy’s influence on the breed extended through his offspring, many of whom achieved significant success in the show ring. His natural talent, intelligence, and exceptional pedigree made him a cornerstone of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed.

Impact on the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed

GLL’s Carbon Copy is remembered not only for his own accomplishments but also for the lasting legacy he left as a sire and breed ambassador. His ability to perform unmounted, his natural gaits, and his striking conformation set him apart as one of the most unique and beloved champions in Tennessee Walking Horse history.

Why GLL’s Carbon Copy is Remembered

  • Model of Excellence: Carbon Copy was considered the ideal Tennessee Walking Horse, combining beauty, talent, and natural ability.
  • Unique Abilities: His unmounted performances showcased his intelligence and responsiveness, endearing him to fans and horsemen alike.
  • Influence as a Sire: His offspring and descendants continue to carry his legacy, ensuring his contributions to the breed endure.

GLL’s Carbon Copy remains a symbol of excellence in the Tennessee Walking Horse world, celebrated for his achievements, unique talents, and lasting impact on the breed.