EC January/February, 2005

The story I am about to tell is a love story. It is also one of triumph, trust, teamwork and, most of all, total dedication of each main character. This story is fact, not fiction, although the legend may live on long after the rest of us have passed. This is an all too brief biography of Rugged Lark. And it begins at the end.

Rugged Lark was allowed to leave our earthly world on October 26, 2004. He was 23. His owner, Carol Harris, along with his trusted veterinarian, Dr. Fred Benker, were led to his final resting place by Lark himself. Carol will tell you that it is like he knew that whatever was wrong with him was too grave to cure and that this special place, near the office and barn that Lark had called home for the last several years of his life, was where he would finally rest after a long and wonderful life. He knew his partner through all of his triumphs, owner Carol Harris, would do the right thing and not allow him to suffer. He was right.

The reason that this story begins at the end is that the end of Rugged Lark’s life may indeed be the beginning of his legacy. Through all the Congress and World Championships, the Super Horse titles, the public appearances including the Atlanta Olympics, being named the ambassador for the American Quarter Horse Association, the many visitors who came to Bo-Bett Farm up until his death, through all this, his death has inspired people and groups around the world. But we will get to that in a moment.

“I do believe we will meet our loved pets

again in heaven one day – and that they

wait for us at Rainbow Bridge.”

Patty Dunn, NC

First, I have to tell you that I may be the only person that owns and shows Quarter Horses who actually first knew of Carol Harris because of her dogs, not her horses. Before our re-entry into the horse world, my wife, Amy, and I showed many breeds of dogs including several hounds. There was a beautiful whippet, called Snow Bunny, who we lost to on more than one occasion. She was owned by Carol Harris. So, when we moved to Florida, we got to know Carol and were fortunate enough to gain her friendship. It was then that we met Lark. His reputation preceded him.

The first time I ever saw Lark perform was on a television in the Bo-Bett Farm trophy room. It was easy to understand where the accolades in the ring came from. The first time I met Lark was an incredibly special moment. You see, I have had the good fortune to either have met or been involved with five great animals in my life. Every one, without fail, had the same look in his or her eyes. When you look into the eye of a great one, there is always someone looking back. The feeling of humanity inside them is palpable. Lark had this look. There was a reason everyone talked to him as if he were a person. It’s because in many ways he was. And in many ways, he was better.

“I read of Lark’s passing and

wanted to tell you how much

he was admired, even by this Arab owner.”

Sami Rhyner Hirko

Rugged Lark had many friends who helped guide him on his journey to becoming the most celebrated Quarter Horse of all time. Besides Carol, there was Mike Corrington, Lynn Palm, Barbara Williams, Colleen McQuay, Patty Shortino and Bob Loomis. These people all appreciated the special qualities of this outstanding stallion. They were careful to develop his talents without breaking his spirit. Carol kept a watchful eye and was the guiding hand in this process. I am not going to detail Lark’s exploits in this story. You can read about each and every one in the book, America’s Super Horse, Rugged Lark. I will tell you, however, that there may never be another like him. The days of developing a great horse over several years, instead of several months, have passed, along with shirts with pearl buttons and pleasure horses sporting breast collars.

“Our hearts go out to you and your family with the death of your fine gentleman, Rugged Lark. Although from England, I feel Lark is and always will be a legend to be proud of.”

Sandie Turner, England

“We are so sad to hear of Lark’s final moment in time…but (we will) never forget the impact that both Lark and Carol have made in our life. Because we met Lark one day when

we were at Bo-Bett Farm looking for our beloved Whippet puppies, we now have 4 beautiful show Quarter Horses…Although he

is gone, he  leaves a legacy of champions…”

Rebecca Rahall, MA

Rugged Lark influenced the breed in ways that no single horse ever has. The one great thing that his development as a Superhorse helped bring to the industry was a compassion for the very animals that the industry is built upon. People saw that they didn’t have to punish horses into submission in order to have them perform. In fact, our entire industry learned that the horses performed better and lasted longer when they were treated with love and respect. This is, in part, due to the tremendous success of Rugged Lark and the style in which he was trained.

“Lark was special beyond words.

Carol always made the right decisions for him, even at the end.”

Barbara & Darrell Gerken, FL

Lark served as the finest ambassador the Quarter Horse breed has ever known until the day before he died. People came to Bo-Bett Farm, sometimes by the busload to see the horse they had known from his Breyer collectible. There is no telling how many thousands he attracted to the American Quarter Horse because they loved Rugged Lark. His influence will live on forever.

Carol Harris said it best, “We were fortunate to have Lark for 23 years, may God enjoy him as much as we did.” I am sure Heaven is a better place now.

An Ode To Lark

Amazingly different, it set him apart,

Trusting and Brave, He exposed his heart.

Super Horse, Ambassador, Champion Sire,

An American Legend for all to aspire.

One Moment In Time, He left his mark,

Unforgettable – Unequaled, Our Friend, Rugged Lark.

by Pam Cramer ~ 2004

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