### Honors: The 2016 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse
The Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration is a cornerstone event in the equestrian world, and the 2016 competition in Shelbyville, Tennessee, will forever be remembered for crowning a horse of unparalleled excellence: Honors. On a night filled with anticipation and excitement, Honors, under the skilled guidance of Larry Edwards, captivated a crowd of 13,000 spectators and earned the unanimous approval of the judging panel. This victory was not just a moment of triumph for Honors but a testament to perseverance, talent, and the indomitable spirit of excellence.
#### A Legacy of Excellence
Bred by Brian Anderson of Moulton, Alabama, and foaled on October 2, 2007, Honors has been a standout in the Tennessee Walking Horse community since his early days. Currently owned by Keith McSwain of Alpharetta, Georgia, this remarkable stallion has etched his name in the annals of equestrian history. With a lineage that boasts champions like WC The Titleist, WGCh He’s Puttin’ On The Ritz, and WGCh The Pushover, Honors was destined for greatness. His pedigree is a blueprint for success, combining strength, grace, and an innate ability to dominate in the show ring.
#### The Journey to the Crown
Honors’ road to becoming the 2016 World Grand Champion was far from easy. Despite his undeniable talent and consistent victories, he faced challenges that tested his resilience. On three separate occasions, he passed preliminary inspections at the Celebration, won his classes, but was controversially denied entry into the Stakes Class. These setbacks raised questions about fairness and transparency in the competition process. However, Honors’ team, led by Keith McSwain and Larry Edwards, refused to back down. Their unwavering commitment ultimately led to a court injunction ensuring Honors received the fair treatment he deserved.
On August 27, 2016, Honors finally claimed his rightful place as World Grand Champion. Competing against horses like A Home Run By Ted, He’s Shady In Black, He’s Unleashed, and others, Honors stood out as the unanimous choice of the judges. His victory was celebrated not only as a personal achievement but as a win for integrity and justice in the sport.
#### An Unparalleled Performer
Honors’ conformation and performance are nothing short of extraordinary. With his deep-walking strides, head-nodding rhythm, and commanding presence, he epitomizes the ideal Tennessee Walking Horse. His gaits are described as “breathtaking” and “heart-stopping,” captivating audiences and judges alike. His ability to “walk a hole in the wind” is a phrase often used to describe his unparalleled skill in the ring.
Beyond his physical attributes, Honors possesses an intangible quality that sets him apart—a charisma that inspires admiration and awe. Watching him perform is an emotional experience for fans and enthusiasts, evoking cheers, laughter, and even tears.
#### A Champion in the Breeding Barn
Honors’ influence extends beyond the show ring into the breeding barn. As of 2021, he has sired 33 foals, many of whom have already made their mark in competitions. At the 2021 Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration, three of his offspring achieved remarkable success:
– **Broadway Honors**: Two-Year-Old World Grand Champion
– **Kobe 24**: Three-Year-Old World Grand Champion
– **Justified Honors**: Four-Year-Old World Grand Champion and overall 2021 World Grand Champion
The achievements of his progeny underscore Honors’ significance as a sire and hint at a legacy that will continue for generations. Justified Honors’ victory as the first horse sired by Honors to win the roses cements this stallion’s impact on the future of Tennessee Walking Horses.
#### A Storied Career
Honors’ show history is a testament to his consistency and dominance over the years. From his early victories as a two-year-old to his crowning moment in 2016, he has consistently outperformed competitors across various events:
– **2011 Celebration**: Three-Year-Old Riders Cup Champion
– **2012 Celebration**: Four-Year-Old Walking Stallions Champion
– **2013 Spring Fun Show**: Aged Walking Stallions Over 15.2 Champion
– **2014 Red Carpet Show**: Championship Stake Class Winner
– **2016 Columbia Spring Jubilee**: Championship Stake Class Winner
These accomplishments highlight his versatility and ability to excel against diverse competition across multiple categories.
#### The Team Behind the Legend
Honors’ success is not just a reflection of his talent but also the dedication of a team that believed in him through thick and thin. Larry Edwards’ expertise as a trainer played a pivotal role in refining Honors’ performance and guiding him to victory. Keith McSwain’s unwavering support as an owner ensured that no obstacle could deter this horse’s journey to greatness. Together with their team, they demonstrated what can be achieved through determination, skill, and passion for the sport.
#### Looking Ahead
As Honors continues to thrive in the breeding barn and his offspring dominate competitions, his legacy only grows stronger. Many believe he has set a new standard for Tennessee Walking Horses—a benchmark against which future champions will be measured. Some even predict that Honors could be named the “Horse of the Century,” an accolade that would be well-deserved given his impact on the sport.
In every sense of the word, Honors is a living legend—a horse whose name will be spoken with reverence for decades to come. From his awe-inspiring performances to his influence on future generations, he represents the pinnacle of what it means to be a champion.
#### Closing Thoughts
The story of Honors is one of triumph over adversity, excellence in performance, and enduring legacy. His journey from a promising foal in Alabama to a celebrated champion on the world stage is an inspiration to all who love and admire Tennessee Walking Horses. As we look back on his achievements and forward to his continued influence on the sport, one thing is certain: Honors has earned his place as one of the greatest horses of all time.
