Ebony’s Senator: 1969 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse

Ebony’s Senator, a stallion of exceptional pedigree and talent, claimed the title of 1969 World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse. His rise to the top was marked by perseverance, stellar performances, and a legendary display of determination during one of the most challenging championship nights in Celebration history.

Pedigree and Early Life

Ebony’s Senator was foaled on January 23, 1964, in Belfast, Tennessee, as the property of S.W. Beech. His pedigree was a blend of some of the most influential bloodlines in the Tennessee Walking Horse breed:

Sire: Ebony Masterpiece, the 1962 World Grand Champion, by Skipper’s Son of Midnight (a son of Midnight Sun, the 1945 and 1946 World Grand Champion).
Dam: Go Boy’s Merry Bird, by Merry Go Boy, the 1947 and 1948 World Grand Champion.
Second Dam: Merry Bird, by old Merry Boy.
Third Dam: Bird Worde, by Wood’s Black Eagle.

Ebony’s Senator was part of the first crop of foals sired by Ebony Masterpiece, making him a standout prospect from the beginning.

Early Training and Ownership

Ebony’s Senator was purchased as a yearling by Billy Hale of Gallatin, Tennessee. In 1965, he was sent to Texas with Bud Seaton, who moved to the Frank Mason Stables. Later, Frank Mason purchased a half-interest in the colt. During this time, Senator was not shown as a two-year-old and only lightly as a three-year-old.

1967 Celebration

At the 1967 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, Ebony’s Senator placed fourth in a large class of three-year-old walking stallions. The event was split into two sections due to the high number of entries. At this time, he was listed as the property of Mason and Seaton of Dallas and Grapevine, Texas.

Rise to Prominence

After the 1967 Celebration, Ebony’s Senator changed hands multiple times:

Sold to Vic Thompson of Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Later sold to Lloyd Wood of Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Finally purchased by O.D. Carlton of Albany, Georgia, in August 1969.

1968 Season

Under the training of Marvin Wilson at the Vic Thompson Stables, Ebony’s Senator began to show his potential. His first major win was at Fayetteville, Tennessee, where he captured the blue ribbon in a competitive class of three-year-olds. He continued his undefeated streak throughout the season and was highly regarded as a strong contender for the Junior Championship at the 1968 Celebration. That year, he placed reserve in the junior stallion class.

Dominance in the 1969 Season

Ebony’s Senator’s career reached new heights in 1969. Shown fourteen times, he consistently dominated the competition. Among his notable victories were:

Championship at the Tennessee Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Show in Nashville.
Stallion and Gelding Class at Moulton, Alabama.
Championship Stake at Lynnville, Tennessee.
Stallion and Gelding Class at Petersburg, Tennessee.
Stake at Winchester, Tennessee.
Stallion and Gelding Class at Wartrace, Tennessee.

By the summer of 1969, Ebony’s Senator and Marvin Wilson were widely regarded as top contenders for the Celebration’s Grand Championship.

The 1969 Celebration: A Legendary Victory

The 1969 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will forever be remembered for the dramatic conditions during the Grand Championship Stake. On the final Saturday night, Ebony’s Senator and Marvin Wilson faced what many have described as “impossible conditions.”

A Night to Remember

The ring was drenched in mud and water, with a driving rain, thunder claps, and lightning flashes creating an almost surreal atmosphere. Despite the chaos, Marvin Wilson kept Ebony’s Senator steady, focused, and performing at his best. The duo hugged the rail and showcased a brilliant performance that captivated the audience.

When the judges awarded the tri-colored ribbon to Ebony’s Senator, the crowd erupted in applause. His victory was seen as a testament to his resilience, athleticism, and the skill of his trainer and rider.

Legacy

Ebony’s Senator’s 1969 World Grand Championship solidified his place in Tennessee Walking Horse history. His victory was not just about his talent but also his ability to overcome adversity and shine under the most challenging circumstances. His pedigree, performances, and remarkable championship night have made him a symbol of excellence in the breed.

Key Takeaways

Exceptional Pedigree: Descended from multiple World Grand Champions, including Ebony Masterpiece, Midnight Sun, and Merry Go Boy.
Steady Rise: From light showing as a young horse to dominating the ring in 1969.
Legendary Performance: His victory in the 1969 Celebration’s Grand Championship Stake remains one of the most memorable moments in the event’s history.

Ebony’s Senator and Marvin Wilson’s partnership exemplified the dedication, skill, and perseverance that define the best of the Tennessee Walking Horse world.