Equine Medicine & Surgery

Who Are The Ancients?

Sugarboy Jr.

1974-2009
Owned by Frances Wilson

This chestnut colt was born with a flaxen mane and tail, and a perfect diamond on his forehead. He was destined to be special.

The Wilson family of Nashville, Ark., raised him. Frances Wilson's mother, Rosemary, gave the colt to her brother, Fred, who then gave him to her when Sugarboy was two years old. He was broke, handsome and loved people.

Sugarboy enjoyed many years of joyful trail riding with the Wilson family children. He loved when the kids rode on him Roman style and happily explored the Redstone Canyon. His favorite spot was the Redstone Creek where he invariably laid down to roll in the water – saddle, kids and all!

When Sugarboy was 10, he started training to jump at the Four Winds Stable. He never cared if he was ridden Western, English, or bareback – he did it all. This "Jack of Diamonds" had an amazing jumping style- knees up and perfectly square- and he won his first championship in the Beginner Hunter division at the Estes Park Hunter Jumper show.

As the kids outgrew him he became a school horse and taught people of many ages to ride and jump. He never tossed the children, but there were a few adults who bit the dust when riding Sugarboy!

As Sugarboy reached his thirties he slowed down a bit. He had a bad tear duct in one eye, his knees were arthritic and his tail was not so long and full. He still walked long distances exploring the Redstone, visiting neighboring horses and leisurely grazing. He would have to be "whoo hoo'd" until he would finally come home to eat and sleep in the barn.

Sugarboy is forever peaceful at his beloved home in Redstone Canyon, never to be forgotten, his flaxen mane and tail glowing in the spirit light.

Help us celebrate!

Tell us the stories of your horse's own old soul, submit story and picture to: comments4equinehospital@colostate.edu