Wimsey’s Story
Most equestrians know the meaning of the term “Heart Horse.” It’s that one special horse that’s made an impact on your very soul. Having just celebrated Valentine’s Day, I’ve been giving much thought to love in its many forms. It started me reminiscing about my first horse Wimsey…my Heart Horse. This is a very personal story about a relationship with an animal that taught me much about what true friendship …what true love is.
I purchased him (registered name Odd’s Golddigger) in the mid-1980s through Riverview Valley Stables in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Son of World Grand Champion Superior Odds, he was just two years old, but beyond his years in intelligence and stamina. I gave him the barn name “Wimsey” after one of my favorite fictional detectives, Lord Peter Wimsey. from the Dorthy L. Sayers mystery novels.
His trot was as smooth as silk! I remember my riding instructor, Harriet Himmelstine, commenting, “Janet Winters will never post again!” That began our adventures together, riding through Riverview Park, and forming our special bond.
Life Moves On…
And so did our growing family to a larger home. That meant that Wimsey had to relocate as well. We ended up in a barn that focused on showing, and although Riverview Valley Stables had produced some excellent show horses, it was never really my thing. I was pretty much a “park rider.” Being in a very competitive business at the time, I wasn’t all that interested in competing in the show ring. However, to join in the fun at our new digs, Wimsey and I agreed to do some local shows.
Tragedy Strikes My Heart Horse
Eventually, the trainer there talked me into “upgrading” my show ring experience. We entered the Western Pleasure Class at The Ohio State Fair in Columbus. Wimsey looked good in Western tack, and I had an awesome gold lame show shirt!
I was to meet the trainer who was hauling Wimsey at the showgrounds. But that never happened. Instead, I got a call saying that there had been a terrible accident. As the trailer was flying down the highway, the back came open, and Wimsey fell out!
OSU To The Rescue
The team at The Ohio State University School of Veterinary Medicine jumped in to save Wimsey from the injury and agony of six open joints.
The head surgeon, Dr. Ruggles, told me that he could be saved. So I gave the green light. I loved that horse, and he loved me. After several surgeries and weeks of therapy, I brought him home to enjoy several more years in the saddle together.
Well, that’s our story. The woman that became a Horsewoman, and the horse that showed her the way! We’d love to hear the story of you and your Heart Horse!
Let’s Show Them All Some Love!
awh such a lovely story. I am so so glad you were able to save him from that TERRIBLE accident!! omg I can’t even imagine how I would feel from something like that.
It’s nice to hear a story about an American Saddlebred who was a pet and pal more than anything else though he clearly was able to be a show horse too.
Hi Linda! Thank for writing. He was truly special!