Lori Watkins Reflects on the Passing of Notable AQHA Sire, Vested Pine

By: Brittany Bevis

Bred by Dan and Carol McWhirter of Nebraska, Vested Pine was the 1991 AQHA sorrel stallion by The Invester and out of Zippos Bay Lady. Notable for being a superior earning western pleasure horse and Congress Champion in his own right, and being cultivated under the tutelage of trainers like Bill and Tina Kaven, Vested Pine went on to sire the next generation of western pleasure champions.

He was the sire of NSBA Hall of Fame inductee and Horse of The Year, Vested Faith, as well as multiple NSBA Champions, World and Reserve World Champions, Congress Champions, Youth Champions, and High Point Champions. In addition, he became an Equistat Leading Western Pleasure Sire and an NSBA Leading All Age Western Pleasure sire.

Owner Lori Watkins of Black Creek Crossing took a moment to reflect on what this special horse brought to her life and breeding business.

“I am so sorry to have to share that Vested Pine was peacefully put to sleep on Monday, March 3, 2014,” Watkins says. “I was grateful to have him in my life for as long as I did. Even though he always lived at stallion stations (DeGraff’s and then his final home at Clarice Cooper’s in Georgia), I was frequently told stories about his sweet nature and how endearing he was to everyone who met him.”

“He was a barn favorite and left an enormous legacy with his offspring who represent him so well all over the world. I appreciate the condolences of so many who knew him throughout his amazing life. I cannot thank Clarice enough for her kindness and strength getting through this and making sure Vested Pine was comfortable and knew he was loved.”

Although this is certainly a sad time for all of those who were lucky enough to be involved in the showing and breeding career of Vested Pine, there is comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will continue on through his many offspring.

Our condolences go out to Watkins and Vested Pine’s many fans at this time.