In Loving Memory of Art Of The Deal

By: Natalie Vargo

Art Of The Deal, “Rocco,” was truly the greatest horse I’ve ever ridden and will ever know. He was my best friend, and I don’t say that lightly. I knew him like the back of my hand- just like how he hated to be petted on his nose but loved being petted under it. He loved putting his head as close to the ground as possible, because he liked dirt being kicked on his face.

He was family to me and everyone around him. Everybody knew how tough and hard-headed he was. They thought we were crazy for buying him, since I was only about 11 years old. Rocco carried me over my very first jump all the way to my very first World Championship title. A lot of tears have been shed between then and now, but none of them amount to this day.

My first show with him will always be one to remember. We made it over the first jump in a line perfectly okay, but I just didn’t think the second jump was going to happen, so I went around it like nothing happened. He put up with so much of my novice-ness.

He loved to use his tail as a weapon. I can even feel it now, and those who knew him well would understand just how hard he could swish it. When we had to retire him, I was heartbroken. I told myself that I’d always ride for him, and I owe absolutely everything to Rocco. He was the one who got me there, no matter if he was under me or not.

Nothing will ever be the same without him here with us. I wish he could root me one more time with his big ‘ole head and I could kiss his cheek one more time. I know he’s looking down on me and watching every Pop Tart I eat, it was his favorite snack, hoping I’d save some for him.

I love you buddy, jump high up there.

The Equine Chronicle remembers doing an interview with Natalie after she won her first World Championship title, at the age of 13, with Rocco in Hunter Hack. Click here to read.