### Sun’s Delight D.: A Legacy of Excellence in the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed
Sun’s Delight D., the 1963 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, remains an iconic figure in the history of the breed. Bred by A. S. Dean of Christiana, Tennessee, this remarkable chestnut stallion embodied the ideal qualities of a walking horse: impeccable conformation, natural gaits, and an undeniable presence. His legacy as both a show ring champion and an influential sire continues to resonate in the equestrian world.
#### A Pedigree Rooted in Excellence
Sun’s Delight D. was sired by Midnight Sun, a legendary Tennessee Walking Horse and two-time World Grand Champion (1945 and 1946). His dam, 
Wilson Snip’s Chance, was by Wilson Dean, a son of Wilson’s Allen—a cornerstone of the breed’s lineage. Further tracing his pedigree reveals connections to foundational figures like Hunter’s Allen F-10 and Merry Legs F-4, a mare of historic significance. This illustrious bloodline provided Sun’s Delight with the genetic foundation that would elevate him to greatness.
#### Early Career and Training
In January 1961, A. S. Dean entrusted Sun’s Delight to Neal Branscum’s stable in Winchester, Tennessee. Under Branscum’s guidance, the young stallion began his training, displaying early promise as a show horse. By 1962, Sun’s Delight had already made his mark, securing Reserve Junior Champion Walking Horse honors at the Celebration, where he competed against some of the finest horses in the country.
Later that year, Fray Escue of Covington, Kentucky, sought out Sam Paschal, a renowned trainer, to find an exceptional Tennessee Walking Horse. After visiting numerous stables, Paschal identified Sun’s Delight as the perfect candidate. On January 7, 1963, Escue purchased the horse from Dean and placed him under Paschal’s expert care at City View Stables in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
#### A Momentous Victory
With Paschal at the helm, Sun’s Delight underwent rigorous training to prepare for the 1963 Celebration. The hard work paid off when, just eight months after his purchase, Sun’s Delight was crowned World Grand Champion. His victory solidified his reputation as one of the most outstanding walking horses of all time. Known for his natural gaits—free from artificial enhancements—Sun’s Delight epitomized the breed standard in both appearance and performance.
#### Retirement and Stud Career
Following his triumphant win at the Celebration, Sun’s Delight retired from active competition and stood at stud at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin, Tennessee. The demand for his services was immense, as breeders recognized his potential to pass on his exceptional traits. True to expectations, Sun’s Delight became one of the most influential sires in the breed’s history. His offspring consistently excelled in the show ring, further cementing his legacy.
Among his most notable progeny are six World Grand Champions:
– **Delight Bumin Around** (1973)
– **Delight of Pride** (1984)
– **Coin’s Hard Cash** (1987)
– **Doc’s High Tribute** (1988)
– **Pride’s Sundance Star** (1995)
– **Generator’s Santana** (1997)
These champions carried forward Sun’s Delight’s natural talent and impeccable lineage, ensuring his lasting impact on the breed.
#### The Hallmarks of Greatness
What set Sun’s Delight apart was not only his pedigree but also his innate abilities. His three distinct gaits—the flat walk, running walk, and canter—were executed with effortless grace. Unlike some horses whose performances rely on extensive training or artificial aids, Sun’s Delight moved as nature intended. This authenticity made him a model for breeders and trainers aiming to preserve the integrity of the Tennessee Walking Horse.
#### A Legacy That Endures
Sun’s Delight D.’s influence extends far beyond his own achievements. His name appears in the pedigrees of countless world champions and top-performing walking horses. Decades after his retirement, he remains a symbol of excellence within the Tennessee Walking Horse community.
From his humble beginnings in Christiana, Tennessee, to his crowning moment as World Grand Champion and eventual role as a leading sire, Sun’s Delight D. exemplified the best qualities of his breed. His story is one of dedication, natural talent, and enduring impact—a testament to what makes the Tennessee Walking Horse truly special.
