Four-time World Grand Champion Epic was sadly laid to rest Monday evening under the expert care at Rood & Riddle in Lexington, Kentucky. Currently owned by Sadie Fowler Parsons of Nashville, Tennessee, Epic was taken to Rood & Riddle after local veterinarian Dr. Richard Wilhelm completed x-rays and determined further care was needed. 

Upon further exam, it was confirmed that Epic had a severe tear in a ligament in his hind leg that would end his show career. Rood & Riddle determined euthanizing Epic as the only choice due to the severity of the tear and other ailments.

Epic was started under the direction of Callaway Stables and won his first world grand championship 10 years ago with former owner Meghan (Davis) Hammond in the Amateur Three-Year-Old Stallions division. That was just the beginning of the incredible show career of Epic.

Eventually, Epic was moved to the show pleasure division where Hammond and Epic dominated the competition. Epic was the 2020, 2021 and 2022 Amateur Show Pleasure World Grand Champion.

Hammond and Epic closed out their careers last year in Tunica and shortly thereafter he was sold to Parsons, who had recently put her horses in the EquiKnox barn. Parsons was looking for a horse to realize her dream of winning at The Celebration and Epic was the perfect fit. Unfortunately, injuries prevented Epic and Parsons from having a chance to realize that Celebration ride.

“Stay out of his way and it was all good to go,” said Parsons. “Epic showed me what the difference between a good horse and a great horse truly is, and I am grateful to have been a part of his amazing story line even if it’s just for seven months.” 

In addition to Callaway, Epic was trained for many years by the EquiKnox team, most notably Tim Smith, who loved Epic and maintained a special bond and connection to the talented stallion.

Parsons had recently moved Epic under the direction of Baucom Stables. “I would like to especially thank Tyler and Jeanette Baucom for all of their compassion and professionalism during this difficult time.”