Classy Bar Link (Target) 2002 - 2009

It has taken me the better part of a week to gain my composure after the tragic loss of my prized horse Target. Target was involved in a freak driving accident last Saturday, January 30, that damaged his left rear leg to the point where he had to be put down. It was without question one of the saddest days of my life. I had owned Target since he was a yearling, broke him, trained him and became his fast friend. Seldom has there been such shared affection between man and horse. I feel such pain over this loss, it is hard to describe. Target was noble in life and noble beyond belief to his very last breath. Together we rode through the wilderness of Idaho, Montana, Utah and Wyoming. Together we faced down grizzly bears. Together we herded cattle and buffalo. Together we raced Arabians and won.

Target was the subject of and inspiration for many of my poems over the years; A Trajectory of Course, Aroma Therapy, As I Bridle in the Morning, I Like 'em Fat and Sassy, If He Nicker's at Yer Comin' and My Blue Eyed Bay. He was frequently mentioned on CowboyPoetry.com. His image became the logo for my podcast that appears on iTunes and elsewhere on the web. He was also featured on the cover of my CD "Rimrock:Where Memories Rhyme."

In a way it seems like I have just done some unexpected horse trading with my father who passed away at the end of October. At his passing, I took over the care of his bucksin paint horse Indian Chief. Now, at the passing of Target, I am hoping that Dad will look after him on the other side.