I Am Jose: A Champion for the Ages

### I Am Jose: A Champion for the Ages

In the world of Tennessee Walking Horses, few names resonate as profoundly as I Am Jose. This extraordinary black stallion has etched his name into the annals of equestrian history, achieving feats that have not been seen in decades. From his humble beginnings in Franklin, North Carolina, to his triumphant victories at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, I Am Jose has become a symbol of excellence, resilience, and unparalleled talent.

#### A Historic Three-Peat

I Am Jose, under the skilled guidance of trainer Casey Wright, made history by winning the World Grand Championship three consecutive years: 2013, 2014, and 2015. This remarkable achievement places him among the elite in the sport, as only one other horse, The Talk of the Town, accomplished a similar feat from 1951 to 1953.

The 2015 victory was particularly significant, as it marked the first time in over six decades that a horse had achieved such a streak. “Unbelievable!” exclaimed observers as Wright and I Am Jose once again claimed the title in Shelbyville, Tennessee. Vida Blue secured the Reserve World Grand Championship that year, while Gen’s Black Maverick and Border Run rounded out the top four.

#### The Journey to Greatness

Bred by Robert W. Rollins and born on October 8, 2008, I Am Jose boasts an exceptional pedigree. Sired by the renowned WC Jose’ Jose’ and out of Prides Angelique, he carries the prestigious Prides Generator bloodline. In February 2011, Billy Max and Debbie Woods of Lexington, Tennessee, recognized his potential and acquired him.

Trained at Wright Stables in Reagan, Tennessee, I Am Jose quickly proved himself in the show ring. His early victories include winning the 2-Year-Old World Grand Championship in 2011 and dominating various competitions as a 3-year-old in 2012. These formative years laid the foundation for his unprecedented success in the years to come.

#### A Champion’s Consistency

What sets I Am Jose apart is not just his talent but also his consistency. Despite challenges such as strict inspections by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to prevent soring practices and less-than-ideal weather conditions during competitions, he remained unfazed. In 2015, for example, five hours of steady rain softened the track in Shelbyville, but I Am Jose’s footing was impeccable. Casey Wright described him as “a mudder,” capable of performing even in adverse conditions.

Wright also marveled at I Am Jose’s natural ability and readiness. “You can put him up for a month and get him out, and he’s still good,” Wright said. “He’s just a great horse.”

#### Breaking Records and Making History

I Am Jose’s back-to-back victories in 2013 and 2014 were historic in their own right. In 2013, he became the first 4-year-old horse to win the World Grand Championship since Shaker’s Shocker in 1966. The following year, he became the first repeat champion in 58 years, a feat last accomplished by Go Boy’s Shadow in 1955-56.

Debbie Woods, one of I Am Jose’s co-owners, aptly described him as her “history maker.” Reflecting on his achievements, she said: “Well, everything about that horse is special from the first time that I looked at him.”

#### The 2015 Celebration

The 2015 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration solidified I Am Jose’s legacy. Despite stricter inspections and fewer entries in the big stake class—only three horses competed compared to over ten a decade ago—I Am Jose emerged victorious. Wright admitted feeling the pressure: “It felt like every eye in that place was on me.” Yet, the pair delivered a flawless performance, earning a unanimous decision from the judges.

The win was particularly meaningful for Wright, who turned 33 on the night of their victory. Earlier that evening, he was named co-winner of the Walking Horse Trainers Association’s Trainer of the Year award—a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.

#### A Champion’s Future

While most big stake winners retire from competition to focus on breeding—a lucrative endeavor for owners—I Am Jose defied convention by returning to compete after a breeding season in 2015. However, his co-owners hinted that his competitive days might be behind him following his third consecutive championship. “I think we aren’t going to test our luck anymore,” Wright said cautiously, though Billy Woods left the door open: “We never say no.”

#### A Legacy Beyond Compare

I Am Jose’s accomplishments have not only elevated him to legendary status but have also brought renewed attention to the Tennessee Walking Horse community. His victories are a testament to meticulous training, exceptional breeding, and an unbreakable bond between horse and rider.

As fans and enthusiasts reflect on his career, one thing is clear: I Am Jose is more than just a champion—he is an icon of excellence whose legacy will inspire generations to come.