Triple Threat: 1965 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Triple Threat: 1965 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Triple Threat, a black stallion with an impressive pedigree and a storied career, became the 1965 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse, earning his place among the legends of the breed. Known for his resilience, exceptional gaits, and competitive spirit, Triple Threat is remembered as one of the most celebrated champions in Tennessee Walking Horse history.

Pedigree and Early Life

Triple Threat was bred by Robert Ellis, Jr. of Amite, Louisiana, and foaled on May 1, 1956, at Ingleside. His pedigree reflects the finest bloodlines in the Tennessee Walking Horse breed:

  • Sire: Sun’s Quarterback, a son of the legendary Midnight Sun, two-time World Grand Champion (1945 & 1946).
  • Dam: Tensas Gypsy Girl, a daughter of Wartrace, who descended from Allen’s Little Joe and Hunter’s Allen F-10.

Originally named Traveller, Triple Threat’s registration was delayed due to an accident in which his registration papers were burned. He was not officially registered until he was five years old, at which point he was given the name Triple Threat.

Early Show Career

Triple Threat’s journey to the top began with notable performances in the early 1960s:

  • 1963 Celebration:
    • Won Reserve Champion Stallion and Reserve Grand Championship with Harold Kennedy as his rider.
    • At the time, he was owned by Circle T Ranch in Roanoke, Texas.

After the 1963 Celebration, Triple Threat was sold to Pat Kimbrough of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Before the spring of 1964, Kimbrough sold him to C.E. Clement, J.B. Sherrill, and Clyde Abernathy of Hickory, North Carolina.

  • 1964 Celebration:
    • Again won Reserve Champion Stallion and Reserve Grand Championship, once more ridden by Harold Kennedy.

These early successes established Triple Threat as a top contender in the Tennessee Walking Horse world.

1965 Celebration: World Grand Champion

In the spring of 1965, Triple Threat was sold during the Murray Farm Spring Sale to Hank Sheely of Dallas, Texas, who then sold him to Joe Wright of Nacogdoches, Texas. Wright was Triple Threat’s proud owner during his historic victory at the 1965 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.

Key Achievements at the 1965 Celebration

  • Stallion Class Winner: Triple Threat defeated numerous top stallions to win the Stallion Class.
  • Championship Stakes Winner:
    • The Championship Stakes featured 11 entries, and after 50 minutes of intense competition, Triple Threat and his rider, Doug Wolaver, were unanimously chosen as the winners by the judges and referee.
    • The crowd’s enthusiastic ovation confirmed the judges’ decision, solidifying Triple Threat’s place as the 1965 World Grand Champion.

Retirement and Stud Career

Following his World Grand Championship win, Triple Threat was retired to stud in Middle Tennessee, where he became a sought-after sire. His ownership changed hands several times during his retirement:

  • Joe Wright sold part interest in Triple Threat to Bob Guinn of Savannah, Tennessee, and A.W. Kroesche of San Antonio, Texas.
  • In the summer of 1966, Triple Threat was sold to Gottlob Koenig of Daytona Beach, Florida.

Legacy as a Sire

Triple Threat’s influence on the Tennessee Walking Horse breed extended through his offspring. He sired numerous successful horses, including the 1979 World Grand Champion, Threat’s Supreme.

Impact on the Tennessee Walking Horse Breed

Triple Threat is remembered as a resilient competitor, a model of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, and a sire of champions. His ability to excel in the show ring and his lasting impact as a sire have cemented his legacy in the history of the breed.

Why Triple Threat is Remembered

  • Competitive Spirit: His ability to compete at the highest level for multiple years, culminating in his 1965 World Grand Championship, showcased his resilience and talent.
  • Model of the Breed: Triple Threat was admired for his conformation, natural gaits, and striking presence.
  • Influence as a Sire: His offspring, especially Threat’s Supreme, carried on his legacy, ensuring his impact on the breed endured.

Triple Threat’s story is one of perseverance, excellence, and lasting influence, making him a true legend in the Tennessee Walking Horse world.