Zeke wanted to learn to ride, and in November of 2003, Zeke purchased an older, "bullet proof" horse. This horse, who had probably been known by more names than many an Old West character, was known as Jake for at least the last 15 years. Jake was, we think, a quarter horse, but his lineage had long ago been lost. He was a very old gentleman; estimated to be in his late twenties. His front teeth were worn even with his gums so judging age was rather difficult!


Zeke purchased him from the Kevin McGuffey family, whom Bryan had known for years. Kevin is currently the Outdoor Eduction Director for Sabine Creek Ranch. Jake was kind and gentle, if a little tender-footed, when we got him. He had a gentle disposition after years of being the "learner horse" for the McGuffey family, before performing the same function here. Jake was gentle enough that anyone, stranger or friend, could climb upon his back and go for a ride.
Jake had a colorful career as a rodeo horse, prior to becoming The Old Man at RAQ. Kevin's son Keaton first acquired Jake, and so named him, in 1992 when he was a youngster wanting to start calf roping competitively. Jake and Keaton won several events as a team. One time, while they were at a rodeo getting ready to compete, and older, much more experienced roper wandered up to the McGuffeys and said "I know that horse! We won a lot of money together when I had him in the 1980s."
Jake, you may have run your course in life, but we at the RAQ will not forget you. You were a friend and partner here at the ranch. We know now that the cancer cannot touch you anymore, and we hope that you are standing belly high in bunch grass now. So long, Ole Pard!

"Somewhere...somewhere in time's own space
There must be some sweet pastured place
Where creeks sing on and tall trees grow
Some Paradise where horses go.

For by the love that guides my pen
I know great horses live again."

-Stanley Harrison