Roxy Cole – Hanceville, Alabama

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN THE TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE INDUSTRY?
My parents, Woodrow and Carolyn Spinks, bought their first horse when I was two-year-old. I fell in love with them immediately! My family has owned many show horses over the years, as well as breeding and raising many special ones. We have been blessed with our horses as well as some very special trainers and friends we have made throughout the years.

WHAT HORSES DO YOU CURRENTLY OWN AND WHO ARE THEY IN TRAINING WITH?
We have a Four-Year-Old Stallion, He’s Pushin’ The Dollar and a Park Performance Gelding, A Rendezvous At The Ritz. Both are in training at Campbell Stables in Cullman, Alabama.

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE PAST WORLD GRAND CHAMPION AND WHY?
There are so many, but Ebony’s Mountain Man holds a special place in my heart. I spotted him being ridden early one morning at the Celebration and immediately knew he was special. We bred one of our mares to him and raised Roxy’s Mountain Man who I did extremely well showing in amateur competition for many years.

IF THERE WAS ONE AREA OF THE INDUSTRY YOU COULD CHANGE OR RAMP UP, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
I would say that judging needs improvement. While there are many shows judged well, there are also many that are questionable. Many times it appears the judge ties known horses and or riders over more deserving horses. Each show and class should be tied on that specific show or class.

IF YOU WERE NOT AT THE BARN OR A HORSE SHOW, WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING IN YOUR FREE TIME?
While we love going to the barn and going to horse shows, we also love to be with our families, especially our grandchildren. We also love to work and relax on our farm.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE TV SHOWS, MOVIES OR NETFLIX FEATURES HAVE YOU BEEN BINGE WATCHING DURING THE PANDEMIC?
No binge watching has happened here as I have continued to work throughout the pandemic.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR SHOW CAREER THUS FAR?
My most special memory was winning the 2011 Reserve Amateur Show Pleasure World Championship with A Rendezvous At The Ritz. It was a special night and later became even more special because it was the last Celebration my mother was here to enjoy with us. I am so glad she was here to celebrate that moment with me.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM CAN YOU GIVE TO THE HORSE INDUSTRY ON THE PANDEMIC?
Use common sense in everything and do what you are comfortable with for now. We will be back in the show ring hopefully soon!