MISTY MORN’S TOUGH STUFF

2002 AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

            Tuffy was foaled on a cold and rainy July morning to a first time foaling mare and she chose to have him down by the river.  Another mare stole the foal and she in turn took another mare’s foal.  We were leaving for a carriage show and when the mares didn’t come up for feed, went out to find them and were greeted with this mess.  After getting everybody sorted out, Tuffy’s mother wasn’t interested in him requiring tying up the mare until she accepted her foal.  On the second afternoon, Tuffy kicked Verne in the shin and we decided that everything was going to be fine.  Tuffy’s name was suppose to be Tough Start but Verne didn’t hear well and thought Rich said Tough Stuff and he’s been just that kind of a pony.

                Replacing a pony that had been injured, Tuffy made his debut in the show ring after six weeks of training.  Many of you know of Tuffy’s driving ability as he’s been driven single, in pairs, tandem, team, unicorn and in four and six pony hitches, both pleasure and draft.  He’s also shown in-hand, showmanship, leadline, over fences, and English and Western pleasure.   For those of you that have known and shown with us, you’ve watched with Rich and I as Tuffy and Ashley grew up together.  There’s a life-long bond there that’s so special and we should all be fortunate enough to have experienced that at least once in our lifetime.  Ashley loves this pony and it is very evident that he loves her.

                We’re very pleased to be the first recipient of this award.  When this award was proposed, most people thought it unattainable.  We won’t deny it takes a lot of hard work, dedication and determination but it is attainable!  I’d like to thank Gail Thomson for her encouragement last Winter.   2002 was to be Tuffy’s first year of retirement but it wasn’t like he was “old” so we decided to try to achieve this last goal for Tuffy.  I’d like to thank the Society for putting forth an award that encourages us to produce versatile ponies. 

                Tuffy, with his huge heart and desire to give all he has to accomplish what you’re asking of him, is a true representation of the talent, intelligence and ability of a Welsh Pony.  He’ll be a permanent resident of Misty Morn Farm and will be our stand-by, fill-in, and “you get all the babies bouncing off of you when training for multiples” pony.