**The Legacy of RPM: A Tennessee Walking Horse Icon**
The Tennessee Walking Horse community mourns the loss of one of its most celebrated champions, RPM, who passed away on July 23, 2005. The 1999 World Grand Champion (WGC), known for his remarkable talent, impeccable bloodlines, and an illustrious career, succumbed to colic while en route to the University of Tennessee for treatment. RPM’s passing marks the end of an era, but his enduring legacy continues to inspire admiration and respect across the equestrian world.
### A Champion by Design
RPM, registered as #942628/BL, was destined for greatness. His lineage is a testament to the best of Tennessee Walking Horse breeding. Sired by the late Dark Spirit’s Rebel—himself a WGC in 1992 under the guidance of legendary trainer Bud Dunn—RPM inherited a pedigree rich with champions. His dam, Ebony’s Emmy Lou, carried the lineage of Another Masterpiece, further cementing RPM’s genetic predisposition for excellence.
As one of the few sons of Dark Spirit’s Rebel, RPM was not only a champion in his own right but also a vital link in preserving and enhancing his sire’s legacy. His natural talent, combined with his striking conformation and athleticism, made him a standout from an early age.
### A Career of Unparalleled Achievements
RPM’s career began with a bang, capturing the Two-Year-Old TWHBEA National Futurity Championship in 1996. The following year, he secured the Three-Year-Old Futurity Championship and went on to win the Three-Year-Old World Grand Championship at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. His momentum continued as a four-year-old in 1998, earning both the Four-Year-Old Stallion World Championship and the title of Reserve WGC—a rare feat for a horse of his age.
However, it was in 1999 that RPM achieved his crowning glory. On September 4, before a record crowd of 29,106 at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville, Tennessee, RPM and his trainer Bud Dunn delivered a performance for the ages. The sleek black stallion dazzled both judges and spectators with his grace, power, and precision. When the announcement came naming RPM as the WGC, the audience erupted in thunderous applause. At 81 years old, Dunn became the oldest trainer in the event’s history to win the prestigious title, breaking his own record set in 1992 with Dark Spirit’s Rebel.
The victory was more than just a personal triumph for Dunn; it was a poetic full-circle moment. Riding RPM to victory mirrored his earlier success with RPM’s sire, creating an emotional connection that resonated deeply with fans. “I can ride as good now as I ever could,” Dunn remarked after the win. “It makes you feel good to hear the crowd cheer like that. I don’t know how to describe the feeling except that it’s great!”
### A Legacy Beyond Competition
RPM’s success extended far beyond the show ring. In May 1999, he was purchased by T.R. and N. Limited Partnership for a record $1.25 million—a testament to his exceptional value as both a competitor and a sire. His owners, Rusty Hyneman of Memphis and Tommy and Nancy Mills of Eads and Shelbyville, had unwavering faith in RPM’s abilities. Nancy Mills reflected on their journey with RPM: “His win gave us feelings of hope, pride, gratefulness, and confidence in the sport and industry.”
Former owners Pete Hammond and Robert Kilgore also recognized RPM’s extraordinary potential early on. Hammond purchased him at just 14 months old, nurturing his development, while Kilgore acquired a half-interest when RPM was three years old. Both men praised RPM’s unparalleled talent and heart.
Following his retirement from competition in 2000, RPM stood at Bridlewood Farms before being acquired by Jaclyn Smith in 2005 and relocated to Rising Star Ranch in Shelbyville. His retirement ceremony during the Celebration remains one of the most memorable events in Tennessee Walking Horse history—a fitting tribute to a horse who had given so much to the sport.
### The Heart of a Champion
RPM’s influence extends into the future through his offspring. As a sire, he passed on his exceptional traits—talent, beauty, and heart—to a new generation of Tennessee Walking Horses. His foals represent not only his legacy but also the promise of continued excellence within the breed.
For trainer Bud Dunn, RPM was more than just a horse; he was a partner in creating unforgettable moments. Dunn’s passing shortly after RPM’s final Celebration ride adds an additional layer of poignancy to their shared story. Together, they epitomized the bond between horse and trainer—a relationship built on trust, respect, and mutual determination.
### Remembering RPM
RPM will forever be remembered as one of the greatest Tennessee Walking Horses in history. His record-breaking career, combined with his impact on the breed and industry, ensures that his name will remain synonymous with excellence. As one of only five Tennessee Walking Horses to sell for over a million dollars, RPM embodied the pinnacle of what this beloved breed represents: elegance, athleticism, and an indomitable spirit.
Though he is no longer with us, RPM’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who admired him and through the generations of horses he has influenced. His story is one of triumph and inspiration—a reminder of what is possible when talent meets opportunity and hard work.
Rest in peace, RPM. You will not be forgotten.
