Jim, Our American or Modern Belgian
Acquired from auction, in the year 2000, Jim is the reason for this corporation. Wanting a big horse for vaulting and returning to circus bareback riding, JD bought this beautiful red roan as a ten year old. Jim was stubborn and used to having his own way. He was aggressive and defiant, although not mean or dangerous. His weakness was carrots, and JD took his aggressive nature and turned it into focusing on goals and tasks. He became extremely reliable, and trusting. He has become an incredible equine partner, and although we know that retirement for him is in the foreseeable future, he remains strong. The Belgian is the most popular draft horse in America. This horse has heavy muscling, a deep chest, wide barrel, powerful hindquarters, and active boldness, yet is willing and docile. The modern Belgian came into existence in the early 1900’s. Horses imported from Belgium were breed down to be lighter bodied and cleaner legged then the original Belgians. Jim is an excellent example of the breed.     

Miss Athena, Our Percheron Acquired in 2008
from a Dirty Auction Barn
Athena was a two year old that we believe did not have any training. She quickly accepted riders, and before long we were vaulting, and standing on her. She immediately proved to be a valuable member of the team.   The exact origin of the Percheron has been lost over time. History shows that in the 8th century, the breed was developing from local Flemish stock, in the area of La Perch, a district of Normandy, France. Over time the breed changed and introduction of Spanish and Arab blood, lightened up the breed for carriage work and riding. In 1820 two grey Arab stallions were imported into La Perch. It is from these stallions that the gray color still exists today. By the middle of the 19th century, the old strains of Percheron blood had almost disappeared. Breeders were interested in producing a heavier horse again for agricultural Draft work. This heavier Percheron is what is common today. Miss Athena is a good example of the early 1800’s type, being slightly smaller is an asset for our vaulting and trick riding. Her unique coloring and sweet disposition make her a favorite at our meet and greets. We witness time and time again, the crowd is somehow magically drawn to her. If you look carefully, you will notice natural red highlights in her mane and tail!

The Mighty Thor, Our Clydesdale
Acquired in the fall of 2008, from a private owner. Thor came to us as a loveable 7 year old with little experience in anything other than being a friendly pet. He was extremely nervous when anyone mounted him, and we knew he would be a project. The hardest thing for him was displaying his flag with a mounted rider. Thor also likes to run, although it took some practice for him to balance himself with a rider. Thor lacks the heavy muscling of our other drafts, however, as we tell the crowd in our appearances, he makes up for that with his big heart.  The Clydesdale breed is from Lanarkshire, Scotland and the breed takes its name from the river Clyde. In the mid 1700s native stock was mated with larger Flemish horses, and the Clydesdale was born. Clydesdales combine strength and style. The breeds action is distinctive, with each foot lifted cleanly off the ground so the bottom of the hoof is visible from behind. Thor makes a great addition to our Draft horse show, and we are proud to have him representing this widely known breed.