**Pride’s Jubilee Encore: Shelbyville’s Hometown Champion**
In the world of Tennessee Walking Horses, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Pride’s Jubilee Encore, the 2001 World Grand Champion. A product of Shelbyville’s rich equestrian heritage, Encore’s journey to the pinnacle of his sport is one of determination, passion, and community pride.
### A Legacy of Excellence
Pride’s Jubilee Encore (#912786) was destined for greatness. Bred by Shelbyville’s Bonnie Woosley, Encore boasts an impeccable lineage. His sire, Pride’s Jubilee Star, was crowned the 1986 World Grand Champion, while his dam, Lady Fame, is a legend in her own right, producing a lineage of exceptional horses such as The Skywatch and Generator’s Fame. From the beginning, Encore carried the weight of high expectations.
Purchased as a three-year-old in 1994 by Kay Dennis and her neighbor Filey Patterson, Encore quickly captured the attention of the walking horse community. “Filey told me that we could own a few average horses, or we could get serious and own one really good horse,” Kay recalls. That decision proved to be transformative. Under the guidance of Shelbyville trainer Bill Bobo, Encore began his ascent, earning numerous accolades in both open and amateur competitions.
### A Journey of Peaks and Valleys
Encore’s career was not without its challenges. After tying for third in the prestigious Celebration Stake in 1995 and achieving consistent top-five finishes in subsequent years, his trajectory was briefly interrupted by changes in ownership and training. Following Filey Patterson’s passing in 1995, his sister Alla Mai Ray joined Kay as a co-owner. However, by 1999, health concerns prompted Mrs. Ray to sell her interest in Encore.
This pivotal moment brought new partners into the fold: Charles and Florence Terry, along with Jerrold Pedigo. Encouraged by professional trainer Allan Callaway’s unwavering belief in Encore’s potential, the group embarked on a bold mission to elevate the stallion to World Grand Champion status. “Allan thought Encore was underrated,” Charles Terry recalls. “He believed the stallion had the deep-down makings of a World Grand Champion.”
### The Campaign for Greatness
The partners approached their quest like a political campaign. Buttons, banners, billboards, and balloons emblazoned with images of Allan and Encore appeared throughout Shelbyville. Yard signs dotted the cityscape, and the community rallied behind their hometown contender. In an innovative promotional effort, Encore even became the sponsor of a race car in Goodyear’s Dash Auto Race Series, with his image prominently displayed on the car’s hood and trailer.
This comprehensive campaign rekindled public interest in Encore and set the stage for his triumphant return to the ring. By the time the 2001 National Celebration arrived, Shelbyville was abuzz with excitement. On stake night, the atmosphere was electric.
### A Night to Remember
Encore’s performance during the 2001 National Celebration was nothing short of extraordinary. The ten-year-old black stallion epitomized the ideal Tennessee Walking Horse—his head held high, his stride deep and powerful, and his movements fluid yet commanding. With each pass around the ring, Encore grew stronger, captivating both judges and spectators.
Professional trainer Allan Callaway described it as “the best show of his life.” Years of meticulous preparation had culminated in this moment. “A horse like that has to have strength, ability, and endurance,” Allan explained. “If it’s there, it can be brought out and developed. That’s what happened with Encore.”
As the spotlight landed on Allan and Encore, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Shelbyville residents celebrated their hometown champion with unbridled enthusiasm. The victory was not just a personal triumph for Encore’s team—it was a communal achievement that underscored Shelbyville’s deep connection to its equestrian roots.
### A Champion’s Legacy
Following his crowning as World Grand Champion, Pride’s Jubilee Encore transitioned from competitor to ambassador. Retired from the show ring, he now stands at stud, continuing his legacy through his offspring. Early results are promising: Kay Dennis’s three-year-old gelding, Encore Encore—Encore’s first colt to go under saddle—has already excelled in both amateur and open competitions.
The partners remain committed to promoting Encore’s lineage. “We believe that Encore is everyone’s horse,” says Charles Terry. Plans are underway to showcase his progeny at sales and in the show ring while supporting mare owners who choose him as their stallion.
### A Hometown Hero
For Shelbyville, Pride’s Jubilee Encore represents more than a championship title—he embodies hometown pride and perseverance. His story is a testament to what can be achieved through vision, hard work, and community support. As Encore’s legacy continues to unfold through his offspring and public appearances, he remains a symbol of excellence in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.
Encore’s journey from promising colt to World Grand Champion is not just a tale of equestrian success—it is a celebration of Shelbyville itself.