Horse Tributes
Gone but not forgotten
Golondrina
(2004 - 2022)
Golondrina is the Spanish word for the swallow, that little bird often seen swooping in and out of stables with effortless speed and grace. The name was certainly apt for the lovely, gallant, black Azteca mare known to her friends as Drina.
Drina tried her hooves at many careers over the years before she joined the Seattle Knights, including drill team steed, lesson horse, babysitter, and trail mount. When Ann Shilling needed a new jousting partner, Drina found yet another calling. A natural performer whose beauty was equaled only by her heart and spirit, she basked in the lavish attention by fans she always received after shows.
But as friendly and outgoing as she was to the world in general, she developed an especially affectionate relationship with Ann, with a seemingly bottomless appetite for scritches, treats, and snuggles. She and Ann shared many adventures on and off the field, from basic bushwacking to wagon train treks across high mountain trails; from dipping into the intricacies of Spanish garrocha lance dancing, to learning equestrian combat techniques. Drina was happy to try anything Ann asked of her, as long as it was followed by more scritches, treats, and snuggles. She loved few things more than trail rides with Ann and her buddy, Pepper. Despite her tendency to avoid walking whenever possible, she rarely tired, and could prance, trot, and gallop all day and still be ready for more.
Au Revoir, Drina. And thank you for the memory of swift and joyous grace you've left us.
Drina tried her hooves at many careers over the years before she joined the Seattle Knights, including drill team steed, lesson horse, babysitter, and trail mount. When Ann Shilling needed a new jousting partner, Drina found yet another calling. A natural performer whose beauty was equaled only by her heart and spirit, she basked in the lavish attention by fans she always received after shows.
But as friendly and outgoing as she was to the world in general, she developed an especially affectionate relationship with Ann, with a seemingly bottomless appetite for scritches, treats, and snuggles. She and Ann shared many adventures on and off the field, from basic bushwacking to wagon train treks across high mountain trails; from dipping into the intricacies of Spanish garrocha lance dancing, to learning equestrian combat techniques. Drina was happy to try anything Ann asked of her, as long as it was followed by more scritches, treats, and snuggles. She loved few things more than trail rides with Ann and her buddy, Pepper. Despite her tendency to avoid walking whenever possible, she rarely tired, and could prance, trot, and gallop all day and still be ready for more.
Au Revoir, Drina. And thank you for the memory of swift and joyous grace you've left us.
Cinnabar
(1992 - 2020)
Cinnabar was one of those horses horsemen always watched. A registered paint gelding born in 1992, he stood a full 16 hands, but with such a perfectly proportioned, compact frame that people were always surprised to learn how tall he actually was. He'd been trained in reining when Walt Szklarski found him in 1995 and decided they were perfect for each other. The two went on to be best pals, enjoyed competing in team penning and other western games, and of course trail riding. When Walt joined the Seattle Knights in 2004, Cinnabar set his hooves to learn all new games. Though his fans sometimes mistook his occasionally grumpy expression for the real McCoy, good old Cinnabar was a real sweetie at heart. Always willing to give his all, he truly loved nothing more than going like a bat out of the bad place against the quintain and other tests of speed. His cat-like grace and flawless haunch turns were the envy of the other horses in the SK—and certainly their riders! Walt reluctantly retired Cinnabar in 2018 and bought another horse to joust on, but Cinnabar remained his best buddy, and the two enjoyed their new leisure time together. Cinnabar knew he was loved and cared for all the way to the end.
Farewell, Cinnabar, and may you frolic in the in forever-green fields you so richly deserve.
Farewell, Cinnabar, and may you frolic in the in forever-green fields you so richly deserve.
Joey
(1990-2018)
His probable birth date was the spring of 1990, his breeding most likely Quarter Horse/Morgan, and, chameleon-like, he changed from black to bay with the seasons; otherwise, Joey came to the Knights from a background shrouded in mystery. He'd been left to his own devices in a pasture for several years before Phil Smith, who played Phillipe le Martel and Martel d'Enfer in the SK shows, found him in 2002. Phil bestowed the nom de guerre of "Navarre" on him, and took him into the lists. It took a while to work the kinks out, but when the two finally committed to this new partnership, something magical happened. The amiable black bay turned into a Pegasus without wings, launching himself like a rocket down the lists at light-warp speed, leaving shattered lances spinning in the air of his wake. Audiences went wild! A team of pure excitement and spectacle was born.
Offstage, Joey enjoyed life in the camps after hours, perfectly willing to get along with even the most cantankerous of his fellow steeds, though he was a bit of a jokester, playing the occasional trick on more aggressive -- and less quick-witted -- pasture-mates. He enjoyed the attention we were all more than happy to bestow, and waited eagerly for such special treats as his morning orange juice.
Joey and Phil went on to share many other adventures after leaving the Knights, and while Phil sometimes owned other horses, Joey remained his "forever" partner.
Joey spent his twilight years enjoying life as a trail and schooling horse and being adored by those he helped teach, with frequent visits from Phil.
Fly high, Joey; your memory will always burn bright.
Offstage, Joey enjoyed life in the camps after hours, perfectly willing to get along with even the most cantankerous of his fellow steeds, though he was a bit of a jokester, playing the occasional trick on more aggressive -- and less quick-witted -- pasture-mates. He enjoyed the attention we were all more than happy to bestow, and waited eagerly for such special treats as his morning orange juice.
Joey and Phil went on to share many other adventures after leaving the Knights, and while Phil sometimes owned other horses, Joey remained his "forever" partner.
Joey spent his twilight years enjoying life as a trail and schooling horse and being adored by those he helped teach, with frequent visits from Phil.
Fly high, Joey; your memory will always burn bright.
Bocephus
(1989 - 2018)
In the shows, he went by the moniker “Bucephalus,” after Alexander the Great’s famous warhorse, but Bo was very much his own person. An Appaloosa/Quarter Horse mix born in in Arizona, he turned his hooves to many an equine career, going from 4-H mount to drill team horse to hard-core gymkhana jock for most of his life before switching over to jousting.
He was the kind of horse who always knew just what his riders needed, and could go from warp speed whippet turns to mild old babysitter, depending on what he figured they could deal with. He started under then-owner Alan Paulsen, but once Nyssa Baugher bought him, he spent several years blazing down the list with fellow-adrenaline-junkie Cedric Ó Cinnéde. When Sir Cedric switched to riding Dante, Bo was equally happy to bear Dame Richildis for many more years. Those who didn't know him assumed his ferocious scowl revealed the personality of an utter curmudgeon, but in real life, Bo was a sweetheart who won the affection of everyone who worked with him.
His favorite pass times in his off hours were cuddling and being scratched by good friends, playing ball and chase with his adoring owner Nyssa, and accompanying Ann and Pepper on trail rides with Darragh Metzger aboard. Even after his retirement from jousting, he continued to enjoy the company of the many friends he garnered over the years, who dropped in frequently to say "hello" to the old man and give him a scritch and a carrot.
So long, Bo. You have earned your place in the endless green fields of Elysium, and in the hearts of all those who love you.
He was the kind of horse who always knew just what his riders needed, and could go from warp speed whippet turns to mild old babysitter, depending on what he figured they could deal with. He started under then-owner Alan Paulsen, but once Nyssa Baugher bought him, he spent several years blazing down the list with fellow-adrenaline-junkie Cedric Ó Cinnéde. When Sir Cedric switched to riding Dante, Bo was equally happy to bear Dame Richildis for many more years. Those who didn't know him assumed his ferocious scowl revealed the personality of an utter curmudgeon, but in real life, Bo was a sweetheart who won the affection of everyone who worked with him.
His favorite pass times in his off hours were cuddling and being scratched by good friends, playing ball and chase with his adoring owner Nyssa, and accompanying Ann and Pepper on trail rides with Darragh Metzger aboard. Even after his retirement from jousting, he continued to enjoy the company of the many friends he garnered over the years, who dropped in frequently to say "hello" to the old man and give him a scritch and a carrot.
So long, Bo. You have earned your place in the endless green fields of Elysium, and in the hearts of all those who love you.
Taliesin
(1987 - 2016)
One of the Seattle Knights' earliest stars has fallen, and the lights of our stage dim a little with his passing.
Tal was the very first Friesian to perform with us, and back then, he was also the first Friesian most of the audiences had ever seen. Half-brother to the horse who portrayed Goliath in the movie Ladyhawke, Tal's natural high-stepping strut and flowing black mane awed the crowds and won gasps of admiration from those who had never before seen his like. When he was joined shortly thereafter by fellow Friesians Gwenivere and Ladyhawke, the effect on audiences everywhere was nothing short of electric.
He loved hamming it up; his "dead horse" trick, which he readily performed after pretending to sip from poisoned chalices or falling victim to evil spells, always wrung oceans of laughter and applause. When Mike Grell needed another jousting partner, owner Kelli Keeler (Lady Jessica) retired and graciously placed Tal's reins in Mike's capable hands.
For years, as the mighty steed of Sir Mikael and Sir Morgan (Mike's usual characters), the Dark Moriah (Lauri LaSabre's legendary villainess), and other knights at need, Tal thundered down the lists in his signature studded-leather barding, head high and eyes bright, looking every inch the proud warrior of ancient days. But he was just as ready to turn around and play whatever goofy trick asked of him, or to stand happily in a crowd of awestruck children to be fawned over and adored. When he retired from the shows, he turned his considerable talents and gentle nature into becoming the best baby-sitter, lesson horse, trail companion, buggy-puller, and all-around special friend anyone could ask for.
Friesians are not usually such a long-lived breed, but with work he throve on and surrounded by loving care, Tal surpassed all expectations and lived a long, full, joyous life indeed. Now he has at last passed over the rainbow bridge and gone to the green fields beyond to romp with his old comrades.
Enjoy those heavenly pastures, old friend. You have more than earned them.
One of the Seattle Knights' earliest stars has fallen, and the lights of our stage dim a little with his passing.
Tal was the very first Friesian to perform with us, and back then, he was also the first Friesian most of the audiences had ever seen. Half-brother to the horse who portrayed Goliath in the movie Ladyhawke, Tal's natural high-stepping strut and flowing black mane awed the crowds and won gasps of admiration from those who had never before seen his like. When he was joined shortly thereafter by fellow Friesians Gwenivere and Ladyhawke, the effect on audiences everywhere was nothing short of electric.
He loved hamming it up; his "dead horse" trick, which he readily performed after pretending to sip from poisoned chalices or falling victim to evil spells, always wrung oceans of laughter and applause. When Mike Grell needed another jousting partner, owner Kelli Keeler (Lady Jessica) retired and graciously placed Tal's reins in Mike's capable hands.
For years, as the mighty steed of Sir Mikael and Sir Morgan (Mike's usual characters), the Dark Moriah (Lauri LaSabre's legendary villainess), and other knights at need, Tal thundered down the lists in his signature studded-leather barding, head high and eyes bright, looking every inch the proud warrior of ancient days. But he was just as ready to turn around and play whatever goofy trick asked of him, or to stand happily in a crowd of awestruck children to be fawned over and adored. When he retired from the shows, he turned his considerable talents and gentle nature into becoming the best baby-sitter, lesson horse, trail companion, buggy-puller, and all-around special friend anyone could ask for.
Friesians are not usually such a long-lived breed, but with work he throve on and surrounded by loving care, Tal surpassed all expectations and lived a long, full, joyous life indeed. Now he has at last passed over the rainbow bridge and gone to the green fields beyond to romp with his old comrades.
Enjoy those heavenly pastures, old friend. You have more than earned them.
Chance
(1983 (?) - 2012)
On the field he was known as Chancellor; a fearless, flying steed who thundered down the lists at a speed astonishing in one so huge. Offstage he was just good old Chance, a Percheron-Appaloosa cross. Chance wasn't around in the early years of the Seattle Knights; he was busy doing competitive mounted orienteering, search and rescue, and costume events with the SCA with his adoring owner and best friend, JoAnne Kirley. Only six or seven and still a dark dappled grey when she got him in 1990, Chance had some trust issues due to previous poor treatment that at one point landed him in a slaughterhouse from which he was only narrowly rescued. But JoAnne and he were made for each other, and the big guy bloomed under her loving care.
JoAnne knew Chance had more talent than she had riding skills, and wanted him to shine. Somewhere around 2001 or 2002, she offered him to Dameon and the SK to try his hoof as a jousting horse. The big guy took to it immediately and from his very first show season proved his mettle to one and all. A new star was born!
At one time or another, he carried almost everyone to victory in the lists. Standing 15.3 hands and built like a tank, he was sturdy enough to handle anyone. Sir Wolfgang, Sir Jäger, and Sir Diarmuid all learned to ride and joust on him, and Dame GeLeah, Sir Charles, and a host of other Knights over the years took their turn on him when they needed a solid, reliable, trustworthy mount. Chance was a big-hearted fellow who gave his all whenever asked, but he also knew how to babysit new or timid riders. He loved jousting, performing, getting all gussied up for the audience, and being petted and admired by fans young and old at every show.
In his off time, he remained the best all-around pal anybody could ask for. His assorted riders couldn't say enough good things about him. Neither can the rest of us. He wasn't one of the "Magnificent Seven," but he filled the gaps left after many of them had gone, playing the same, so-essential part in keeping the shows going. The Seattle Knights are poorer for his passing.
Bless you, Chance, for all you were and all you have done. Go on to your next adventure with our heartfelt gratitude.
JoAnne knew Chance had more talent than she had riding skills, and wanted him to shine. Somewhere around 2001 or 2002, she offered him to Dameon and the SK to try his hoof as a jousting horse. The big guy took to it immediately and from his very first show season proved his mettle to one and all. A new star was born!
At one time or another, he carried almost everyone to victory in the lists. Standing 15.3 hands and built like a tank, he was sturdy enough to handle anyone. Sir Wolfgang, Sir Jäger, and Sir Diarmuid all learned to ride and joust on him, and Dame GeLeah, Sir Charles, and a host of other Knights over the years took their turn on him when they needed a solid, reliable, trustworthy mount. Chance was a big-hearted fellow who gave his all whenever asked, but he also knew how to babysit new or timid riders. He loved jousting, performing, getting all gussied up for the audience, and being petted and admired by fans young and old at every show.
In his off time, he remained the best all-around pal anybody could ask for. His assorted riders couldn't say enough good things about him. Neither can the rest of us. He wasn't one of the "Magnificent Seven," but he filled the gaps left after many of them had gone, playing the same, so-essential part in keeping the shows going. The Seattle Knights are poorer for his passing.
Bless you, Chance, for all you were and all you have done. Go on to your next adventure with our heartfelt gratitude.
Shannar
(1970 - 2008)
How do you say goodbye to a legend?
In the U.S., horses like Shannar are called “Leopard Appaloosa”. But Shannar’s short-coupled confirmation, perfect “chess-piece” head, and full mane and tail marked him as something more: a throw-back to the Baroque period, when his kind was called The Royal Spotted Horse.
The bony, spooky youngster Dameon first met in 1976 and bought in 1978 as a companion to Jokata was not a promising warhorse. Dameon changed his name to Shannara to give him something heroic to live up to, but by the time he finally replaced Jo as Dameon’s warhorse, no one called him that. He went by Shannar most often, “Knarr” when he played Capt. Markos Lazarevik’s valiant steed, and “The Mighty ‘Nar” the rest of the time, because there seemed to be nothing he couldn’t do. Seemingly untouched by time, he passed on his knowledge to a new generation of Knights after Jokata left the lists, and they quickly gave him the same unswerving adoration Jo, in her time, had earned. He bore Darragh Metzger for a season, and Chuck Davenport, Rena Stone, Phil Smith, Lee Kessler, Mike Grell, Paul Reese, Laurie Obom, and too many others to count when they suddenly found themselves horseless. Every one of them he carried to triumph, and every one remembers those times with a deep, personal sense of real privilege. He was a joy to ride: a real firecracker under saddle to anyone who knew what they were doing, and the mildest, gentlest of babysitters to those who didn’t. We always said he’d do everything but hold the lance himself, and if he had oposable thumbs, he’d do that, too. And then go to get his strokes from the audience. How many fierce chargers will also stand there with head down and eyes half-closed while a tiny, laughing baby clings to his soft, freckled nose?
He liked trail riding, but in the arena, he shone. A stocky 15 hands, he grew as soon as he set foot in front of an audience, filling the ring with his presence and power. He knew he was a handsome fellow and basked in the admiration of the crowds, gloried in the excitement of competition. We all took tremendous pride in him. Though most of us moved on to other horses, he remained first in the hearts of almost all who knew him. Our Shannar stood center stage.
Offstage, he was also affectionately known as The Grand Old Man, and sometimes as The Spotted Watermelon, since he was a notoriously easy keeper. A “horse-of-all-trades,” he was a perfect trail horse, athletic gamer, babysitter par excellence. Playing Darragh Metzger’s steed in the Postman, he saved her neck on more than one occasion during that hazardous shoot. Of course, he and Dameon shared most of his epic adventures, including the famous ride across the Olympic Mountains--though he always followed Jokata’s lead. That was the natural order of things, and he was happy with it.
The last of the “Magnificent Seven,” he remained undefeated at the light horse runs until well into his 30’s, when the thin air and long, long hours at a show in Colorado finally took their toll. Even then, he did not take losing lightly, and fought for the lead in every run right up to the end. He officially retired at 36; his eyesight had failed--his heart, never.
Friend, comrade, warhorse without peer, teacher, partner. He has seen and done things that no horse other than Jokata has ever done. Now he once again has followed her lead. It is the natural order of things.
Oldest and best of friends, go with God. And thank you.
In the U.S., horses like Shannar are called “Leopard Appaloosa”. But Shannar’s short-coupled confirmation, perfect “chess-piece” head, and full mane and tail marked him as something more: a throw-back to the Baroque period, when his kind was called The Royal Spotted Horse.
The bony, spooky youngster Dameon first met in 1976 and bought in 1978 as a companion to Jokata was not a promising warhorse. Dameon changed his name to Shannara to give him something heroic to live up to, but by the time he finally replaced Jo as Dameon’s warhorse, no one called him that. He went by Shannar most often, “Knarr” when he played Capt. Markos Lazarevik’s valiant steed, and “The Mighty ‘Nar” the rest of the time, because there seemed to be nothing he couldn’t do. Seemingly untouched by time, he passed on his knowledge to a new generation of Knights after Jokata left the lists, and they quickly gave him the same unswerving adoration Jo, in her time, had earned. He bore Darragh Metzger for a season, and Chuck Davenport, Rena Stone, Phil Smith, Lee Kessler, Mike Grell, Paul Reese, Laurie Obom, and too many others to count when they suddenly found themselves horseless. Every one of them he carried to triumph, and every one remembers those times with a deep, personal sense of real privilege. He was a joy to ride: a real firecracker under saddle to anyone who knew what they were doing, and the mildest, gentlest of babysitters to those who didn’t. We always said he’d do everything but hold the lance himself, and if he had oposable thumbs, he’d do that, too. And then go to get his strokes from the audience. How many fierce chargers will also stand there with head down and eyes half-closed while a tiny, laughing baby clings to his soft, freckled nose?
He liked trail riding, but in the arena, he shone. A stocky 15 hands, he grew as soon as he set foot in front of an audience, filling the ring with his presence and power. He knew he was a handsome fellow and basked in the admiration of the crowds, gloried in the excitement of competition. We all took tremendous pride in him. Though most of us moved on to other horses, he remained first in the hearts of almost all who knew him. Our Shannar stood center stage.
Offstage, he was also affectionately known as The Grand Old Man, and sometimes as The Spotted Watermelon, since he was a notoriously easy keeper. A “horse-of-all-trades,” he was a perfect trail horse, athletic gamer, babysitter par excellence. Playing Darragh Metzger’s steed in the Postman, he saved her neck on more than one occasion during that hazardous shoot. Of course, he and Dameon shared most of his epic adventures, including the famous ride across the Olympic Mountains--though he always followed Jokata’s lead. That was the natural order of things, and he was happy with it.
The last of the “Magnificent Seven,” he remained undefeated at the light horse runs until well into his 30’s, when the thin air and long, long hours at a show in Colorado finally took their toll. Even then, he did not take losing lightly, and fought for the lead in every run right up to the end. He officially retired at 36; his eyesight had failed--his heart, never.
Friend, comrade, warhorse without peer, teacher, partner. He has seen and done things that no horse other than Jokata has ever done. Now he once again has followed her lead. It is the natural order of things.
Oldest and best of friends, go with God. And thank you.
Fancy
(1989 – 2006)
Her registered name was more elaborate, but the grey Egyptian Arab mare who went by Shaba when she played Dame GeLeah's steed, or Doshna when bearing the evil Wraith, was called just Fancy by her friends.
When she first started performing with the Knights, back in the very earliest days, nobody thought much of the nervous, flighty creature. Only her adoring, if some times frustrated, owner Rena Stone believed the horse would grow into something more. When Rena announced her intention to become a jouster, many of us said it would never happen--not on that horse. At one point, even Rena reluctantly considered selling Fancy and getting a more solid, reliable horse. But in the end, she couldn't bear to part with her friend. After learning the tricks and techniques of jousting on Jokata and Shannar, Rena girded her loins and took to the lists on Fancy.
A miracle happened. When the moment came for horse and rider to assume this new partnership, one so very dependent on mutual trust, the "silly filly" grew up. Fancy calmly assumed the mantle of warhorse, and found she loved it.
From that moment on, Fancy shone. A real trouper, she was always ready for the show, always on top of what was happening around her. When Shannar had to step out of the position of Red Champion, Fancy stepped into the role with confidence and style, her red and black caparison soaring around her like wings, her tail carried like a banner as she flew down the lists. An equine actress, she went from wild-eyed creature of the desert one minute to mild old baby-sitter the next, tenderly watching over any small child she found in her immediate area with soft eyes and careful feet. She never grew tired of them, carefully picking offerings of dried grass from chubby little fists and standing for hours with head lowered while the little ones pulled her mane and patted her face.
Fancy never did anything half-heartedly, and continued to win audience hearts and applause up to her last performance. Her spirit and endless kindness are an inspiration to all of us, and her sweet face and big, soft, doe eyes will be missed in our encampments.
Shine brightly, Fancy, like the star you are.
When she first started performing with the Knights, back in the very earliest days, nobody thought much of the nervous, flighty creature. Only her adoring, if some times frustrated, owner Rena Stone believed the horse would grow into something more. When Rena announced her intention to become a jouster, many of us said it would never happen--not on that horse. At one point, even Rena reluctantly considered selling Fancy and getting a more solid, reliable horse. But in the end, she couldn't bear to part with her friend. After learning the tricks and techniques of jousting on Jokata and Shannar, Rena girded her loins and took to the lists on Fancy.
A miracle happened. When the moment came for horse and rider to assume this new partnership, one so very dependent on mutual trust, the "silly filly" grew up. Fancy calmly assumed the mantle of warhorse, and found she loved it.
From that moment on, Fancy shone. A real trouper, she was always ready for the show, always on top of what was happening around her. When Shannar had to step out of the position of Red Champion, Fancy stepped into the role with confidence and style, her red and black caparison soaring around her like wings, her tail carried like a banner as she flew down the lists. An equine actress, she went from wild-eyed creature of the desert one minute to mild old baby-sitter the next, tenderly watching over any small child she found in her immediate area with soft eyes and careful feet. She never grew tired of them, carefully picking offerings of dried grass from chubby little fists and standing for hours with head lowered while the little ones pulled her mane and patted her face.
Fancy never did anything half-heartedly, and continued to win audience hearts and applause up to her last performance. Her spirit and endless kindness are an inspiration to all of us, and her sweet face and big, soft, doe eyes will be missed in our encampments.
Shine brightly, Fancy, like the star you are.
Galahad
(1995 – 2004)
Those of us who knew him from his birth in 1995 found it difficult to equate the fuzzy, big-eyed, spider-legged waif with the amiable giant Galahad became. A purebred Friesian stallion from Excalibur Friesians, and the son of the much-beloved and much-missed Gwenivere, Galahad spent little time with the Seattle Knights after he grew up. But what time he did spend with us left a deep impression and many fond memories among those of us who worked with him and the audiences for whom he performed.
His debut with the Seattle Knights was in the 2001 show season, when he came to Gig Harbor and stepped into his mother's shoes to play the Dark Moriah's warhorse. Despite the novelty of the situation, he remained a perfect gentleman around the other horses and the throngs of fans he attracted. In 2002, he traveled with the troupe to Colorado to win ooohs and aaahs from the audiences there, and decided he liked it. From then on, there was no stopping him. He gained a great deal of attention in the horse show circuit, working at liberty in the arena with owner Lauri LaSabre-Grell before admiring audiences all over Washington state. He has earned a place of honor among the stallions among the American Friesian Horse registry, and his get now graces show arenas around the country.
We are sorry to have had so little time with you, Galahad. Wherever you go, go with pride, and our thanks.
His debut with the Seattle Knights was in the 2001 show season, when he came to Gig Harbor and stepped into his mother's shoes to play the Dark Moriah's warhorse. Despite the novelty of the situation, he remained a perfect gentleman around the other horses and the throngs of fans he attracted. In 2002, he traveled with the troupe to Colorado to win ooohs and aaahs from the audiences there, and decided he liked it. From then on, there was no stopping him. He gained a great deal of attention in the horse show circuit, working at liberty in the arena with owner Lauri LaSabre-Grell before admiring audiences all over Washington state. He has earned a place of honor among the stallions among the American Friesian Horse registry, and his get now graces show arenas around the country.
We are sorry to have had so little time with you, Galahad. Wherever you go, go with pride, and our thanks.
Jokata
(1970-2003)
The Seattle Knights has seen more than its fair share of rare and truly wonderful horses. But of all the exceptional horses who have graced us, Jokata stands in a class by herself.
Known with great affection and respect as Jo, Jo-jo, the Princess, or the Old Lady, Jokata retired from active Seattle Knights duty in 1999, so there are many who never saw her in her glory days. She was not big, black, and elegant like Gwen or Ladyhawke; she lacked the flare and showmanship of those inveterate hams, Kyd and Magic; she was not as handsome as Shannar, or as showy as Lace. But she was the first of the “Magnificent Seven,” those seven horses on whose backs the Seattle Knights was built, and she had no equal.
Dameon and Jokata made their living together for many years, doing everything it is possible for a horse and rider to do – including breaking a few records, like Seattle Slew’s ¼ mile speed record and the U.S. Cavalry’s cross-Olympic trek records. Only much later in life did Jo become a show and jousting horse with the fledgling Seattle Knights, training new riders in the skills they needed, and originating the trick of the “shield strike” for which Kyd and Gwen later became famous. She stood only 14.2, a natural single-foot with gaits so smooth you could drink you coffee on her at a dead run. Possessed of immeasurable heart and spirit, she was an honest horse who knew her own worth, and for all her patient kindness, she did not suffer fools gladly. She could judge to a “T” the distance of a run and how fast she could make her turns without upsetting her sometimes shaky riders, and her ears showed her displeasure when they missed a target or failed to stay with her.
Many of us learned to ride, lance, joust, or all three under her patient tutelage. Ask any of the veteran Seattle Knights players and, with very little prompting, you’ll get a Jokata story, told with misty eyes and a grin of pride. Her sense of humor, her cleverness, her speed, her eagerness, her gentleness, her outsized heart in a pint-sized body, made her the stuff of legend among us. She holds a special place in the hearts of all who ever had the privilege to know her. There will never be another horse even remotely like her.
Jokata always loved to go exploring, ever eager to see what lay around the next bend, over the crest of the next hill, or on the far side of the horizon. We wish her Godspeed on her journey, and send our love and thanks with her, wherever she has gone.
Until we meet again…if we should be so blessed.
Known with great affection and respect as Jo, Jo-jo, the Princess, or the Old Lady, Jokata retired from active Seattle Knights duty in 1999, so there are many who never saw her in her glory days. She was not big, black, and elegant like Gwen or Ladyhawke; she lacked the flare and showmanship of those inveterate hams, Kyd and Magic; she was not as handsome as Shannar, or as showy as Lace. But she was the first of the “Magnificent Seven,” those seven horses on whose backs the Seattle Knights was built, and she had no equal.
Dameon and Jokata made their living together for many years, doing everything it is possible for a horse and rider to do – including breaking a few records, like Seattle Slew’s ¼ mile speed record and the U.S. Cavalry’s cross-Olympic trek records. Only much later in life did Jo become a show and jousting horse with the fledgling Seattle Knights, training new riders in the skills they needed, and originating the trick of the “shield strike” for which Kyd and Gwen later became famous. She stood only 14.2, a natural single-foot with gaits so smooth you could drink you coffee on her at a dead run. Possessed of immeasurable heart and spirit, she was an honest horse who knew her own worth, and for all her patient kindness, she did not suffer fools gladly. She could judge to a “T” the distance of a run and how fast she could make her turns without upsetting her sometimes shaky riders, and her ears showed her displeasure when they missed a target or failed to stay with her.
Many of us learned to ride, lance, joust, or all three under her patient tutelage. Ask any of the veteran Seattle Knights players and, with very little prompting, you’ll get a Jokata story, told with misty eyes and a grin of pride. Her sense of humor, her cleverness, her speed, her eagerness, her gentleness, her outsized heart in a pint-sized body, made her the stuff of legend among us. She holds a special place in the hearts of all who ever had the privilege to know her. There will never be another horse even remotely like her.
Jokata always loved to go exploring, ever eager to see what lay around the next bend, over the crest of the next hill, or on the far side of the horizon. We wish her Godspeed on her journey, and send our love and thanks with her, wherever she has gone.
Until we meet again…if we should be so blessed.
Magic
(1977 – 2002)
What can you say about a champion? Magic left an impact on the Seattle Knights and on those who loved him that can’t be measured.
A purebred Morgan, Magic was a traditional show horse for the first eleven years of his life, winning prizes up and down the west coast. He passed through several owners, including Mike Grell, before meeting up with Darragh at the age of 17. Darragh was smitten by the flashy, handsome bay, he took an equal shine to her, and a new team was born.
Dameon used him as a stunt-horse in the movie, "The Postman," where the nick-name, ‘The Magic Man,’ was bestowed on him by head stunt rider Riley Flynn and Kevin Costner out of sheer admiration. He was the horse they called on to do the impossible; leaping through fire and explosions, leading cavalry charges through a hail of gunfire, or thundering across rushing rivers for the sake of the camera and the applause.
One of the "Magnificent Seven" -- the seven horses on whose backs the Seattle Knights was built -- Magic always caught the attention and admiration of professional horsemen in the audience. His speed, fire, and athleticism made him a standout, and his showmanship and pure presence made it difficult for other horses to overshadow him. A ham to the core, he loved few things more than showing off and being admired. Yet once unsaddled, he was always a gentleman, who enjoyed the attention of small children, and was always careful around tiny, bare feet. He also loved peppermints, black licorice, and maple bars, but not the donuts with sprinkles on them.
Horses like Magic come along seldom in one's lifetime. His beauty, spirit, proud bearing, fire, his indefeasible sense of self and indefatigable energy, were a rare and truly “magical” combination. Temperamental, competitive, sometimes difficult, always a thrill, Magic was not just a horse; he was an experience. We are grateful to have had the time we did with him.
He was one of the horses to whom God whispered, "Thou shalt fly without wings, and conquer without a sword."
A purebred Morgan, Magic was a traditional show horse for the first eleven years of his life, winning prizes up and down the west coast. He passed through several owners, including Mike Grell, before meeting up with Darragh at the age of 17. Darragh was smitten by the flashy, handsome bay, he took an equal shine to her, and a new team was born.
Dameon used him as a stunt-horse in the movie, "The Postman," where the nick-name, ‘The Magic Man,’ was bestowed on him by head stunt rider Riley Flynn and Kevin Costner out of sheer admiration. He was the horse they called on to do the impossible; leaping through fire and explosions, leading cavalry charges through a hail of gunfire, or thundering across rushing rivers for the sake of the camera and the applause.
One of the "Magnificent Seven" -- the seven horses on whose backs the Seattle Knights was built -- Magic always caught the attention and admiration of professional horsemen in the audience. His speed, fire, and athleticism made him a standout, and his showmanship and pure presence made it difficult for other horses to overshadow him. A ham to the core, he loved few things more than showing off and being admired. Yet once unsaddled, he was always a gentleman, who enjoyed the attention of small children, and was always careful around tiny, bare feet. He also loved peppermints, black licorice, and maple bars, but not the donuts with sprinkles on them.
Horses like Magic come along seldom in one's lifetime. His beauty, spirit, proud bearing, fire, his indefeasible sense of self and indefatigable energy, were a rare and truly “magical” combination. Temperamental, competitive, sometimes difficult, always a thrill, Magic was not just a horse; he was an experience. We are grateful to have had the time we did with him.
He was one of the horses to whom God whispered, "Thou shalt fly without wings, and conquer without a sword."
Caballo del Oro
(1978 - 2001)
Caballo del Oro ("Gold Horse"), or Kyd to those of us who knew him, was a heroic friend, who, like many of us in the Knights, got to live the kind of life others only get to dream of. A 7/8 Arab/Spanish mustang, the showy palomino was a horse of all trades. Wild-eyed charger, playful "trick horse," and elegant gentleman by turns, Kyd was always eager to please, and always willing to give his all for a smattering of applause or a bit of carrot. A winning Dressage and Endurance horse, he was also the 1993 Washington State Competitive Trail Reserve Champion, and carried owner Lauri LaSabre-Grell over the 150th Anniversary re-enactment of the Oregon trail. He babysat many novice riders through innumerable riding lessons and, later, performed with the Seattle Knights with all the heart of a warhorse, thrilling crowds with his realistic rearing and shield strikes. He even took a turn at being a movie stunt-horse, and can be seen, with Lauri, in the movie The Postman.
Though retired from show life for the past few years, he has never been forgotten by the many fans who were caught up by his beauty, fire, and open-hearted, unquenchable spirit. He was there at the beginning of it all, one of the first Seattle Knights, one of our earliest "stars." None of us who knew him will ever forget what he gave us all. We were lucky to have had him for a friend.
Though retired from show life for the past few years, he has never been forgotten by the many fans who were caught up by his beauty, fire, and open-hearted, unquenchable spirit. He was there at the beginning of it all, one of the first Seattle Knights, one of our earliest "stars." None of us who knew him will ever forget what he gave us all. We were lucky to have had him for a friend.
Gwenivere
(1988 - 2000)
As the Dark Moriah's mighty war-horse, Gwen was easily the audience's favorite, and she deserved to be. A gifted athlete with an eye for dramatics and an ear for music, Gwen was also a sweet-natured lady with a willing heart and gentle disposition.
A pureblooded Friesian, her flashy good looks and elegant movement captured the instant attention of audiences everywhere, and won legions of fans wherever the Knights performed. No matter the task she was handed, Gwen was always up to it, and gleefully strutted her stuff in show after show without a qualm.
There are few of us of whom it can be truthfully said that "they were loved by all who knew them," but Gwen is one of those few; it was a privilege to have known her. Owned by Laurie LaSabre-Grell of Excalibur Friesians, who plays Dark Moriah, Gwenivere leaves behind the legacy of her splendid son, Galahad, and many friends who miss her terribly, honor her memory, and cherish the time we shared with her.
Thank you, Gwenivere, for everything.
A pureblooded Friesian, her flashy good looks and elegant movement captured the instant attention of audiences everywhere, and won legions of fans wherever the Knights performed. No matter the task she was handed, Gwen was always up to it, and gleefully strutted her stuff in show after show without a qualm.
There are few of us of whom it can be truthfully said that "they were loved by all who knew them," but Gwen is one of those few; it was a privilege to have known her. Owned by Laurie LaSabre-Grell of Excalibur Friesians, who plays Dark Moriah, Gwenivere leaves behind the legacy of her splendid son, Galahad, and many friends who miss her terribly, honor her memory, and cherish the time we shared with her.
Thank you, Gwenivere, for everything.
Shadow
(1969 - 1998)
Shadow plied a lot of different trades in his long life. An Arab/Appaloosa cross born somewhere in 1969, he started out as a 4-H project and went on to be a fine show horse, trusty trail horse, and all around good buddy. But he really came into his own in his later years, dressed in high equine fashion and dashing down the lists as Seeker's high-spirited war steed. Shadow was a born showman who loved every minute of prancing before the maddened crowd, but would quickly switch gears and become once more the gentleman when small children were underfoot, allowing them to pet his nose or squeal in delight into his ears without a twitch. He happily accompanied owner Pat Karvonen to the set of The Postman and strutted his stuff before the camera.
Forever young at heart, Shadow left us in March of 1998, when time finally started catching up with him and life stopped being fun. A grand old man whom we all miss.
Happy trails, Shadow.
Forever young at heart, Shadow left us in March of 1998, when time finally started catching up with him and life stopped being fun. A grand old man whom we all miss.
Happy trails, Shadow.
Ladyhawke
(1990 - 1997)
For three years, Ladyhawke served as the trusty steed to Sir Mikael (owner Mike Grell). Living up to her name in every way, Ladyhawke was unfailingly patient, willing, and sensible. She kept her good temper even when those around her frayed, and stayed level-headed in the face of windstorms, lightning, fire, and flood (literally – ask someone about that first Philomath show!).
As steady as a rock in the most trying of circumstances, Ladyhawke was the horse we all knew we could count on when the going got tough. We asked a lot of her over the years, and she never failed us. Ladyhawke left us for greener pastures in November of 1997, and no loss could have hurt more.
This is a tribute to a brave and much-missed friend and comrade.
Ladyhawke, Ladyhawke, fly swiftly on…
As steady as a rock in the most trying of circumstances, Ladyhawke was the horse we all knew we could count on when the going got tough. We asked a lot of her over the years, and she never failed us. Ladyhawke left us for greener pastures in November of 1997, and no loss could have hurt more.
This is a tribute to a brave and much-missed friend and comrade.
Ladyhawke, Ladyhawke, fly swiftly on…
