He has been a fixture on the show circuit since 1990, when he earned his first performance of merit. Sixteen years later, Zippo LTD has said farewell to the industry in a going-away party at trainer Charlie Cole and Jason Smith’s stalls Friday evening.

Owned by Julia-Dawn Taylor of Dallas, Texas, the 19-year-old bay gelding’s record speaks for himself. Through the years of showing, “LT” has accumulated 5,695 points and is the all-time leading point earner in the history of the association – he has earned $80,574 in Incentive Fund earnings. Van Decka, his closest rival in total points earned, collected 4,388 points in his career. Zippo LTD has won three youth world championships, nine reserve world championships in youth and open, and has accumulated $36,346 in World Show earnings.

“LT is the most wonderful horse who ever lived,” Julia-Dawn said. “I think he has the biggest heart of any show horse. He’s gone in there for two decades and every time given his all. I’ve never seen him cheat anyone in the pen. I really feel like he really deserves every little bit of the attention he’s getting.”

His favorite class, Julia-Dawn said, was western riding. She credits his longevity to the care of his trainers through the years.

“He has taught me patience and sportsmanship, more than anything,” she said. “And frankly, all my events. I’d never ridden western before I got on his back. He’s taught me how to be a good competitor, how to go in there and show your horse. When he goes in there, he always shows, and there’s so many times I get distracted. He’s taught me so many life lessons and made me feel more valuable than any other teacher I’ve had.

“I think it’s amazing that he’s been showing for two decades in an industry that changes so much within two to three years,” she continued. “He represents the true all-around horse and the true American Quarter Horse because he has been able to compete at the highest levels from then until today.”

The party included food, drinks, and two cakes adorned with screened-on photos of LT.

Bred by Ann Meyers, Zippo LTD was sired by Zippo Pine Bar and is out of the Ladybug’s Charge mare Ima Blister Bug.

Although LT will retire from the show ring, he will not be completely idle upon his retirement. Julia-Dawn said that while he will enjoy time off, she hopes to continue riding him and giving him a job.

“He has helped me grow up,” she said. “He has always been there for me, and he deserves everything I can give back to him.”