**The Whole Nine Yards: A Legacy of Excellence in the Tennessee Walking Horse World**
The world of Tennessee Walking Horses has seen its fair share of champions, but few have captured the hearts of enthusiasts and left an indelible mark on the breed quite like *The Whole Nine Yards*. Crowned the 2003 World Grand Champion, this remarkable stallion’s journey from a promising yearling to a celebrated icon showcases the perfect blend of exceptional genetics, expert training, and undeniable charisma.
### A Pedigree of Champions
Born in 1998, *The Whole Nine Yards*—affectionately known as “Nine”—was destined for greatness. His lineage is a testament to the finest 
bloodlines in the Tennessee Walking Horse world. Sired by the 1994 World Grand Champion *Gen’s Armed and Dangerous* and out of *Cash’s Blossom*, a mare by the 1987 World Grand Champion *Coin’s Hard Cash*, Nine inherited a legacy of excellence. His pedigree also includes legendary names such as *Prides Generator*, *Ebony Masterpiece*, *Pride’s Gold Coin*, *Pride of Midnight HF*, *Midnight Sun*, and *Merry Go Boy*. With such illustrious ancestors, Nine’s potential was evident from the start.
### Early Beginnings and Rising Stardom
Bob and Luanne Sigman acquired Nine as a yearling, initially envisioning him as an amateur mount for Luanne. However, it quickly became apparent that Nine’s talents extended far beyond the amateur ranks. Their son, Rob, gave him his fitting name, which would later prove prophetic. Nine’s early training began under Larry Wheelan, followed by Brent Coburn. By the time he was three years old, he was placed with Greg Lute, a trainer who would play a pivotal role in shaping Nine’s career.
Under Greg’s guidance, Nine began to make waves in the show ring, consistently earning ribbons in competitions across Kentucky and middle Tennessee. His natural talent and captivating presence soon garnered a dedicated fan base. At the 2001 Celebration, Nine and Greg advanced to the workout and secured fifth place in the Three-Year-Old World Championship—a sign of even greater achievements to come.
### The Turning Point: Bill Bobo and Championship Glory
In 2002, Nine’s journey took a significant turn when he transitioned to Bill Bobo’s stables. For Bill, the opportunity to train and ride Nine was nothing short of a blessing. Reflecting on their partnership, Bill remarked, “He’s just one of those horses that people want to see, like a great athlete. That kind of horse just doesn’t come along but once, maybe twice, in a lifetime.”
The decision to pair Nine with Bill proved transformative. Together, they achieved remarkable success in 2002, claiming both the Four-Year-Old Stallion World Championship and the Four-Year-Old World Grand Championship. These victories earned Nine the title of Four-Year-Old Horse of the Year from the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association and recognition as the Walking Horse Report Readers’ Choice Four-Year-Old Horse of the Year.
The pinnacle of Nine’s career came in 2003. The dynamic duo dominated the competition circuit, securing victories at prestigious events such as the Trainers’ Show and the Columbia Spring Jubilee. Their crowning achievement came at the Celebration, where they won both the Aged Stallions World Championship and the coveted World Grand Championship title. In just two years together, Bill and Nine competed in nine show ring appearances, earning nine blue ribbons—eight of them by unanimous decision.
### A Horse for the Ages
Nine’s impact extended far beyond his accolades. His magnetic presence and extraordinary talent drew crowds wherever he competed, elevating him to a status akin to that of a great athlete. Bill Bobo likened him to his previous champion *Pride’s Gold Coin*, noting that horses like Nine are rare and unforgettable. “He made us all look good,” Bill said, attributing Nine’s success to divine providence. “I give all the glory to God for creating such an incredible animal and placing him in my hands.”
The significance of the number nine was a recurring theme throughout their journey. From Bill’s back number to their nine show ring appearances and victories, to the nine years since Nine’s sire had won his own World Grand Championship, 2003 was truly *The Whole Nine Yards’* year.
### The Future of a Champion
As his competitive career concluded, plans for Nine’s future shifted toward his role as a sire. Standing at stud at Womack Stables at Glen Oaks Farms, Nine was poised to pass on his exceptional genetics to future generations. His owners, Bob and Luanne Sigman, along with Bill Bobo, remained committed to ensuring his continued influence on the Tennessee Walking Horse breed.
While decisions about future exhibitions were left to Bill’s discretion, one thing was certain: Nine’s legacy would endure. Whether dazzling crowds at events or contributing to the breed through his offspring, *The Whole Nine Yards* had firmly established himself as a significant figure in Tennessee Walking Horse history.
### A Legacy of Excellence
*The Whole Nine Yards* exemplifies what it means to be a champion—not only through his remarkable achievements but also through his enduring impact on those who had the privilege of working with him. From his early days as a promising yearling to his triumphant rise as the 2003 World Grand Champion, Nine’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, expert training, and exceptional talent.
As fans and enthusiasts reflect on his storied career, one thing is clear: *The Whole Nine Yards* will forever be remembered as one of the greatest Tennessee Walking Horses of all time—a true icon whose influence will be felt for generations to come.
