Go Boy’s Royal Heir: 1968 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Go Boy’s Royal Heir, a magnificent stallion with a rich pedigree and a remarkable career, earned the title of 1968 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse. His journey to the top was filled with challenges, determination, and outstanding performances, culminating in a memorable victory at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.

Pedigree and Early Life

Go Boy’s Royal Heir was foaled on June 5, 1960, as the property of T.J. Raney and Howard Binns of Little Rock, Arkansas. His pedigree was deeply rooted in the foundation of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, making him a standout prospect from the start:

Sire: Merry Go Boy, the World Grand Champion in both 1947 and 1948.
Dam: Merry Marquita, by Sir MauGray.
Second Dam: Strauss’ Merry Maid, by old Merry Boy.
Third Dam: A daughter of King Denmark.

Foundation horses appeared twelve times in the third and fourth generations of his pedigree, emphasizing his strong genetic heritage.

Early Training and Ownership

When first registered, Go Boy’s Royal Heir was named Go Glen Boy. He was not shown as a two-year-old but began his training as a three-year-old under Percy Moss in Bastrop, Louisiana. Later that year, he was moved to the E.L. Burgess Stables in Sherrill, Arkansas, where his potential began to shine.

Transition to Steve Hill Stables

In the winter of 1964-1965, Steve Hill acquired a half interest in Go Boy’s Royal Heir, moving him to the Steve Hill Stables in Beechgrove, Tennessee. Shortly thereafter, Dwain Clark of Beverly Hills, California, and W.M. Duncan of Inverness, Mississippi, purchased the horse. Under Steve Hill’s guidance, Royal Heir began competing at the highest levels.

Show Career

Go Boy’s Royal Heir’s show career was marked by steady improvement and resilience, as he consistently placed among the top competitors.

1965 (Four-Year-Old Season)

1965 Celebration:
- Second in the aged stallion class.
- Third in the Grand Championship Stake.
Chicago International:
- Winner of both the Junior Stake and the Grand Championship Stake.

1966

1966 Celebration:
- Second in the aged stallion class.
- An accident in the ring during the stallion class resulted in Steve Hill breaking several ribs and Royal Heir bruising his shoulder. On the recommendation of the Official Veterinarian, Royal Heir did not compete in the Grand Championship Stake that year.

1967

In the spring of 1967, Go Boy’s Royal Heir was sold to Dr. and Mrs. C.L. Sexton of Florence, South Carolina, as a mount for their granddaughter, Candace Williams, of Fayetteville, North Carolina. He was then moved to the Donald Paschal Stables in Readyville, Tennessee.

The 1968 Celebration: World Grand Champion

The 1968 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration marked the pinnacle of Go Boy’s Royal Heir’s career. The Grand Championship Stake on Saturday night drew a record-breaking field of nineteen horses, the largest stake event ever at the Celebration grounds. Each horse entered the ring individually as their numbers were called, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.

Final Workout and Victory

The field was eventually narrowed down to twelve horses, with Go Boy’s Royal Heir and three others called to the rail for a final workout. The enthusiastic applause of the crowd confirmed that Royal Heir’s performance had captivated the audience. When he was declared the 1968 World Grand Champion, it was a popular and well-deserved decision.

Under Donald Paschal’s tutelage, Go Boy’s Royal Heir had also won the stallion class earlier in the week, showcasing his true walking gaits and setting the stage for his ultimate victory in the Grand Championship Stake. This marked the first World Grand Championship for a horse trained by Donald Paschal.

Amateur Success with Candace Williams

In addition to his Grand Championship victory, Go Boy’s Royal Heir excelled in amateur classes with Candace Williams, the granddaughter of his owners. Candace won both the Owner/Amateur Stallion Class and the Owner-Amateur Riders Class, further demonstrating Royal Heir’s versatility and exceptional temperament.

Legacy

Go Boy’s Royal Heir’s 1968 victory cemented his place among the greats of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed. His career exemplified the importance of careful training, perseverance, and the ability to rise above challenges. His influence extended beyond the show ring, inspiring future generations of Tennessee Walking Horses and their riders.

Key Takeaways

Impressive Pedigree: Descended from Merry Go Boy and other foundation horses, Royal Heir carried the legacy of the breed’s most influential bloodlines.
Resilience and Determination: Overcame challenges, including an accident in the ring, to achieve ultimate success.
Historic Victory: His 1968 win marked a milestone for both the horse and his trainer, Donald Paschal.

Go Boy’s Royal Heir remains a symbol of excellence, grace, and the enduring legacy of the Tennessee Walking Horse.