Legendary Calgary Stampede bucking bronc Papa Smurf dies
The Calgary Stampede has announced the death of one of its most storied horses.
Legendary bucking horse Papa Smurf passed away earlier this month at the age of 28.
Rod Hay, champion saddle bronc rider, said the chestnut gelding was an honest bucking horse who “tried his hardest every time he stepped out of the chute.”
“Papa Smurf had a special place in many cowboys’ hearts, including mine,” Hay said in a statement. “At the age of 28, he had a great career and a long, good life. He will be missed by many.”
The Stampede paid $375 to purchase the horse in 1986. It soon found success, winning the 1988 Canadian Finals Rodeo and ’89 Canadian saddle bronc titles.
Papa Smurf went on to take 74 first-place rides between 1988 and 2005, earning more than $460,000.
After retiring in 2005, Papa Smurf spent time on the Stampede ranch watching over the younger horses. Stampede officials say he was laid to rest in the pasture where he passed.
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Sad to lose a good one. Who could imagine what one like him would bring in today's market?
ReplyDeleteI'd have to say close to 100 gs. Helluvahorse.
ReplyDeleteBut he lived a good long life.
ReplyDelete