Shaker’s Shocker: 1966 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Shaker’s Shocker, a striking black stallion with an impressive pedigree and a fiery temperament, became the 1966 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, achieving a historic victory with his owner and rider, Betty Sain. This victory was not only a testament to Shocker’s brilliance as a show horse but also marked a significant milestone in the history of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, as Betty Sain became the first woman to win the World Grand Championship.

Pedigree and Early Life

Shaker’s Shocker was bred by Tom Barham of Lewisburg, Tennessee, and foaled on January 1, 1962. His pedigree reflects a lineage of champions:

Sire: Mack K’s Handshaker (#561320), the 1960 World Grand Champion.
Dam: My Darling (#51026), by Rooster Allen (#480426), who was sired by White Lightning (#370059), a descendant of Hunter’s Allen F-10.

Originally named Handshaker’s Nodder, Shaker’s Shocker was purchased as a colt by H. Pearl Sain of Bell Buckle, Tennessee, after Mrs. Sain heard about the promising foal from Tom Barham. The colt remained with his dam until weaning, after which he was delivered to the Sain Stables. It was Betty Sain, Pearl’s daughter, who renamed him Shaker’s Shocker.

Early Training

As a young horse, Shocker was allowed to run free in the pasture until the fall of his yearling year. He was then halter-trained and started under saddle by Betty Sain, who, at the time, had no assistance due to her father being in the hospital. This hands-on training created a strong bond between Betty and Shocker, which would later prove essential, as Shocker was known to be temperamental and difficult to handle by anyone other than Betty.

Early Show Career

Shaker’s Shocker had a modest start in the show ring, but his talent became evident as he matured:

1964 (Two-Year-Old Season):
- Baxter Show, Cookeville, TN: Tied fourth.
- Goodlettsville, TN: Out of the money.
- Wartrace, TN: First place in the two-year-old event.
- Geraldine, AL: First place in the two-year-old event.
1965 (Three-Year-Old Season):
- Lewisburg, TN: Won the Junior Horse event.
- Lafayette, TN: Tied fifth.
- Belfast Lions Club Show, Belfast, TN: First place shortly before the Celebration.
- 1965 Celebration:
  - Fifth in the Junior Stallion event.
  - Reserve Junior Champion.

These performances highlighted Shocker’s potential, but it was in 1966 that he truly became a legend.

1966 Celebration: World Grand Champion

In 1966, Shaker’s Shocker made only one appearance in the show ring: the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. His performances that week were nothing short of spectacular:

Junior Stallions Class:
- Shocker won the preliminary Junior Stallions event on Wednesday night, showcasing his exceptional talent.
- Despite qualifying for the Junior Championship Stake, Shocker bypassed it in favor of competing for the ultimate prize: the World Grand Championship.
World Grand Championship Stake:
- On Saturday night, Shocker delivered an electrifying performance in the Championship Stake, captivating the overflow audience with his power, grace, and brilliance.
- Against tradition and the odds, Shocker and Betty Sain were unanimously chosen as the 1966 World Grand Champions, earning a standing ovation from the crowd.

Historic Victory

At just 23 years old, Betty Sain became the youngest rider to compete in the Championship Stake and the first woman ever to win the World Grand Championship. Her partnership with Shaker’s Shocker was a testament to their mutual trust and understanding, as Shocker was known to be unmanageable by anyone but Betty. Their victory was a groundbreaking moment in the history of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed.

Temperament and Unique Bond with Betty Sain

Shaker’s Shocker was a physically imposing and gorgeous stallion, but he was notoriously difficult to handle. Only Betty Sain could work with him, as he refused to allow anyone else into his stall. Despite his fiery temperament, Shocker adored Betty, and their bond was evident in every performance.

Betty Sain herself was a remarkable horsewoman and an early advocate for the versatility of the Tennessee Walking Horse. She rode her horses in a variety of disciplines, including western, trail riding, and even dressage. She also trained them to perform tricks, such as counting by tapping their hooves. Her long blonde hair and graceful riding style made her a memorable figure in the show ring.

Stud Career and Legacy

Following his World Grand Championship win, Shaker’s Shocker retired to stud, where he sired 195 foals, many of which became successful show horses. His offspring were known for their beauty, natural gaits, and versatility, and they included some of the most talented flat-shod Tennessee Walking Horses in the world.

Notable Offspring

Shocker’s Shocker S: A standout among Shocker’s progeny, carrying on his legacy of excellence.

Death and Commemoration

Shaker’s Shocker passed away on October 13, 1981, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance and influence. In his honor, a Bedford Historical Marker was erected at Mrs. Virginia Sain’s home in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, commemorating his achievements and his place in Tennessee Walking Horse history.

Impact on the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed

Shaker’s Shocker’s victory in 1966 and his subsequent stud career cemented his place as one of the most influential horses in the breed’s history. His partnership with Betty Sain broke barriers and inspired future generations of riders and horse enthusiasts.

Why Shaker’s Shocker is Remembered

Historic Achievement: First horse ridden by a woman to win the World Grand Championship.
Unparalleled Bond: His unique connection with Betty Sain showcased the importance of trust and understanding between horse and rider.
Legacy as a Sire: His offspring continue to influence the breed, carrying on his legacy of talent and beauty.

Shaker’s Shocker remains a symbol of excellence, resilience, and the enduring bond between horse and rider.