Setting Sun: 1958 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Setting Sun, a black stallion foaled in 1952, became the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse in 1958 under the guidance of veteran trainer Sam Paschal. Known for his exceptional talent, consistent victories, and significant contributions to promoting the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, Setting Sun left an indelible mark on the Walking Horse world.

Pedigree and Early Life

Setting Sun was bred by W. H. Webb of Carthage, Tennessee. He was sired by the legendary Midnight Sun, a two-time World Grand Champion (1945 and 1946), and out of Alice Carver, a mare by Sam Carver. Setting Sun’s strong lineage contributed to his natural talent and success in the show ring.

Early Development

As a yearling, Setting Sun made his debut at the 1953 Celebration Breeders’ Open Foal Show, where he earned Reserve Champion in the Yearling Championship.
Earl Woodward of Carthage purchased Setting Sun as a yearling and partnered with Gid Hackett, who trained and showed him during his early career.

Early Career Success

Setting Sun quickly established himself as a rising star in the Tennessee Walking Horse world:

Two-Year-Old World’s Champion (1954):
- Under the direction of Gid Hackett, Setting Sun won the World’s Champion Two-Year-Old Stake at the Celebration, securing the first leg on the Ben Howell and Son Challenge Trophy, which was introduced that year.
Reserve Junior Champion (1955):
- At the 1955 Celebration, Setting Sun was shown again by Hackett and earned Reserve Junior Champion to the celebrated Go Boy’s Shadow, the eventual World Grand Champion.

Transition to Sam Paschal and Continued Success

Recognizing Setting Sun’s potential, Sam Paschal persuaded M. M. Bullard of Newport, Tennessee, to purchase the horse from Hackett and Woodward. Under Paschal’s expert training, Setting Sun flourished:

Junior Championships:
- Setting Sun claimed Junior Championships at the American Royal and the Dixie Jubilee.
- He was also named Grand Champion of the Tennessee State Fair as a four-year-old.
1957 Reserve World Grand Champion:
- Setting Sun remained undefeated throughout the 1957 show season and was named Reserve World Grand Champion at the Celebration, setting the stage for his ultimate triumph the following year.

The 1958 Celebration: Undefeated Champion

Setting Sun entered the 1958 Celebration undefeated and delivered a flawless performance, culminating in his crowning as the World Grand Champion Walking Horse. His victory was witnessed by the largest crowd ever to attend the Celebration at that time, cementing his place in history as one of the breed’s all-time greats.

Key Achievements in 1958

Undefeated throughout the season.
Crowned World Grand Champion Walking Horse.
Earned immense respect for his style, action, and consistency.

Retirement and Legacy

Following his historic 1958 victory, M. M. Bullard and Sam Paschal made the unprecedented decision to retire Setting Sun before the 1959 Celebration. This decision, made to allow others the opportunity to compete for the coveted title, garnered widespread acclaim and respect within the Walking Horse community.

Promoting the Breed

Setting Sun became an ambassador for the Tennessee Walking Horse breed, participating in an extensive exhibition circuit during the 1959 season.
Highlights included:
- Leading the parade at the Lions International Convention in New York City.
- Introducing the new 49-star flag in Kentucky alongside the Vice President of the United States.
Setting Sun made numerous coast-to-coast television appearances, reaching more people than any other Tennessee Walking Horse of his time.

Enduring Impact

Setting Sun’s legacy extends far beyond his show ring victories. His undefeated 1958 season, combined with his role as a breed ambassador, elevated the Tennessee Walking Horse to new heights of recognition and respect. His retirement as a champion further demonstrated the sportsmanship and integrity of his owner and trainer.

Setting Sun remains a symbol of excellence, grace, and the enduring spirit of the Tennessee Walking Horse.