The Remarkable Journey of Snowman: The True Story of a Champion

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Have you ever witnessed an extraordinary tale of triumph against all odds? If not, get ready to be captivated by the legendary story of Snowman, a horse who defied expectations to become a champion.

Snowman: The True Story of a Champion

by Doreen Cronin (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18973 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	161 pages

FREE

The Early Days

It all began on a snowy winter day in 1956 when a young Harry deLeyer, a Dutch immigrant and horse trainer, attended a horse auction in Pennsylvania. He was searching for an affordable horse that could serve as a reliable school horse for his riding students. Little did he know that this particular auction would change his life forever.

As Harry scanned the auction, he noticed a broken-down, neglected grey horse standing in a corner, moments away from being sold for slaughter. Something about the sad, gentle expression in the horse's eyes caught Harry's attention. Against all logic, he decided to take a leap of faith and purchased the horse, which he would later name Snowman.

A Match Made in Heaven

Harry brought Snowman back to his farm, where he discovered the horse's true potential. Despite Snowman's humble beginnings, Harry quickly realized that he had an extraordinary talent for jumping. The horse's remarkable agility and seemingly boundless energy amazed everyone who witnessed him in action.

Harry, recognizing Snowman's immense potential, began training him for show jumping competitions. Against all odds, the duo soon started their remarkable journey to the top.

Conquering the Show Jumping World

In 1958, just two years after being saved from the slaughterhouse, Snowman made his debut appearance at the National Horse Show in Madison Square Garden. He entered the ring as an underdog, lacking the prestigious lineage of other competitors. However, what Snowman lacked in pedigree, he more than made up for with his heart and spirit.

The crowd couldn't believe their eyes as Snowman effortlessly cleared jump after jump, inspiring awe and admiration. Against all expectations, he won the competition's most prestigious event, the Open Jumper Championship, beating some of the finest horses in the world.

This victory was just the beginning for Snowman. Over the next few years, he continued to dominate the show jumping circuit, capturing the hearts of audiences everywhere. Snowman became a symbol of hope and determination, showing the world that greatness could emerge from unexpected places.

The Legacy Lives On

Snowman's incredible accomplishments earned him widespread fame and adoration. He was featured in numerous publications, including Life Magazine and Sports Illustrated, captivating readers with his extraordinary story.

Throughout his career, Snowman broke various records and achieved numerous accolades. However, what truly set him apart was his unbreakable spirit and the bond he shared with Harry deLeyer. Their partnership transcended the realm of competitive sports and showcased the significance of trust and connection between horses and humans.

Snowman's legacy continues to inspire equestrian enthusiasts and animal lovers around the world. His story serves as a reminder that greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places, and that with determination and belief, one can triumph against all odds.

A Tale of Perseverance

Snowman's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to overcome adversity. From a neglected horse on the brink of slaughter to a symbol of hope and triumph, his story resonates with people from all walks of life.

As you reflect on the incredible tale of Snowman, let it serve as a reminder that amidst the chaos and challenges of life, greatness can be found in the most unexpected places.

So, the next time you see a snowman during winter, take a moment to remember the true champion who defied all expectations and left an everlasting legacy in the world of horse racing.

Snowman: The True Story of a Champion

by Doreen Cronin (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18973 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	161 pages

FREE

A twist of fate brings a man and horse together in this remarkable true story now available in a new version adapted by the author of the Marguerite Henry’s Ponies of Chincoteague series.

Snowman, an Amish plow horse, was bound for the meat market when Harry deLeyer, a Long Island riding instructor, spotted him at auction. After making eye contact with the gentle giant deLeyer decided to purchase him for $80.

At first, Snowman was just a horse that children rode during lessons, but when deLeyer sold him to a neighbor, the horse had other ideas. He would jump the high fences so he could return “home.” Harry then began training Snowman as a show jumper. Less than two years out of the plow fields, Snowman won the 1958 horse show jumping Triple Crown—the American Horse Shows Association Horse of the Year, Professional Horseman’s Association Champion, and Champion of Madison Square Garden’s Diamond Jubilee.

Snowman was inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame in 1992.