GoHorseShow is sad to report the passing of World Champion pleasure mare and multiple World Champion dam, Hollies Big Leaguer, due to natural causes. The 1988 sorrel mare by Ima Big Leaguer and out of Holly New Year was owned by the Mackenzie family for over 20 years.
In 1991, Heather Mackenzie won the AQHYA World Show in the western pleasure on the mare affectionately known as Bambi. Heather says that, at the time, she was a three year-old mare that would do anything for her and always gave one hundred percent.
Another interesting fact to know is that her mare, Hollies Big Leaguer, is the dam of Java Mon (Willie) and Big Leaguers All Star (Bob). Java Mon won the Youth Hunt Seat Equitation World Championship with Parris Rice in 2009 and 2010. Big Leaguers All Star won Horsemanship at the AQHYA World in 2009 with Danielle Long. They are also full brothers who were sired by the Mackenzie family’s stud, Triples Crown Jewel. Bambi offspring have earned over 2,100 AQHA points, and her youngest foal, The Leaguers Touch, is currently in training.
“Bambi was one of a kind, she was special to everyone close to her,” Heather fondly remembers. “She had a great mind inside and outside of the arena. Her great mind and willingness to give one hundred percent was a trait she has passed on to all of her offspring. It is funny because every time one of her offspring went to training; it was normal for the trainers to be shocked by how laid back the horses were, and easy to train.”
Heather said she would like to thank everyone for their support during this difficult time. “We had Bambi for 20 years, she was part of the family. We are very sad that this happened, and we are proud that her legacy lives on in all of her foals.”
