Out On Parole: A Legacy of Excellence in the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry

**Out On Parole: A Legacy of Excellence in the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry**

The Tennessee Walking Horse industry has long been celebrated for its majestic equine athletes, and few have left an indelible mark quite like Out On Parole, affectionately known as “OOPS” by his fans. From his humble beginnings to becoming a World Grand Champion, OOPS’ journey is a testament to natural talent, meticulous training, and the dedication of those who believed in him.

### A Champion is Born

Out On Parole was bred and raised by Dr. Judy Moore of Shelbyville, Tennessee. Sired by Pusher’s Doing Time, his name seemed destined to reflect his lineage. From an early age, OOPS exhibited an outgoing personality, an eagerness to work, and an innate talent that would set him apart. Sold as a yearling to Bob Kilgore and later to Pete Hammond, OOPS found his way to Bud Dunn & Son Stables for training. It was here that his potential as a future champion began to shine.

Under the guidance of Steve Dunn and Bud Dunn, OOPS quickly demonstrated that he was more than just another promising young horse. His natural gait, willingness to learn, and charisma in the ring convinced his trainers that he was destined for greatness. Their instincts proved correct.

### A Stellar Show Career

OOPS’ rise through the ranks of the Tennessee Walking Horse show circuit was nothing short of extraordinary. Over four years, he amassed an impressive list of titles that solidified his reputation as one of the industry’s greats:

– **1999 Two-Year-Old Grand Champion**
– **1999 Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Two-Year-Old Horse of the Year**
– **2000 Three-Year-Old Grand Champion**
– **2000 Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Three-Year-Old Reserve Horse of the Year**
– **2001 Four-Year-Old Grand Champion**
– **2001 Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Four-Year-Old Horse of the Year**
– **2002 World Grand Champion**

By the time he reached five years old, OOPS had become a household name in the walking horse community, earning blue ribbons and tri-color accolades at every event he entered.

### The 2002 World Grand Championship

The pinnacle of OOPS’ career came in 2002 when he claimed the title of World Grand Champion at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Owned by Randall and Sadie Baskins and ridden by Steve Dunn, OOPS delivered a performance that defied expectations and captivated audiences.

Leading up to the Celebration, conventional wisdom suggested that OOPS might not have the stamina for a second workout. However, months of preparation and rigorous training in northern Alabama proved otherwise. Wearing a six-ounce flat chain on a firm track under ideal conditions, OOPS delivered a flawless performance that left no doubt about his dominance in the ring.

“He did everything I asked him to do and kept giving me more and more,” Steve Dunn remarked after the show. The victory was not only a testament to OOPS’ physical abilities but also to the deep bond between horse and rider. Steve carried with him a tie that belonged to his late father, Bud Dunn, during every show since his father’s passing. On that memorable night, he wore it around his neck as a tribute to his father’s legacy and belief in OOPS.

### A Beloved Ambassador of the Breed

Following his 2002 triumph, OOPS embarked on a championship tour, showcasing his talent and serving as an ambassador for the Tennessee Walking Horse breed. Randall Baskins expressed his pride in OOPS, describing him as “everything a true Tennessee Walking Horse is supposed to be.” The Baskins family received countless compliments on OOPS’ demeanor and performance, solidifying his place as one of their most cherished horses.

Even as he transitioned into retirement, OOPS continued to captivate audiences. In exhibitions such as those hosted by Middle Tennessee State University’s (MTSU) Pre-Vet Society, OOPS demonstrated why he was considered one of the finest examples of the breed. At 15 years old, he remained an exceptional performer and a willing partner for riders fortunate enough to experience his gait.

### Retirement and Legacy

On August 30, 2013, during the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, Out On Parole was officially retired from competition. His retirement marked the end of an illustrious career but also signaled the beginning of a new chapter as a breeding stallion at Harlinsdale Farm. As a sire, OOPS continues to contribute to the future of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, passing on his remarkable traits to the next generation.

For those who witnessed his performances or had the privilege of working with him, Out On Parole will always be remembered as more than just a champion. He embodied the spirit of excellence that defines the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. His legacy lives on not only through his offspring but also through the countless lives he touched during his extraordinary journey.

As Randall Baskins aptly stated, “It’s necessary to show everyone a true, natural walking horse.” Out On Parole did just that—and so much more.