Legendary Horse Royal Shake Em Leaves Lasting Legacy

Dive into the legacy of Royal Shake Em, a remarkable Quarter Horse known for his prowess on the racetrack and as a sire of champions in barrel racing and beyond.

Courtesy of Ronnie Stewart

Royal Shake Em, the illustrious Quarter Horse born on March 6, 1994, captivated the hearts of many in the racing and performance horse communities throughout his remarkable life. With a pedigree tracing back to the legendary Streakin Six through his dam, Shake Em Six, Royal Shake Em was destined for greatness from the start. His racing career was nothing short of spectacular, with 26 starts yielding an impressive record of 9 firsts, 8 seconds, and 4 thirds, earning him a total of $257,009 on the track.

Courtesy of Ronnie Stewart

However, Royal Shake Em's influence extended far beyond his own accomplishments as a racehorse. Bred by the esteemed Walter Merrick, a Hall of Fame breeder renowned for his expertise in producing top-tier athletes, Royal Shake Em proved to be a prolific sire in his own right. His offspring collectively amassed an astonishing $13 million in earnings, a testament to his exceptional genetics and inherent talent for passing on his superior traits to the next generation.

All Breed Pedigree

Not content with merely excelling in the racing arena, Royal Shake Em also left an indelible mark on the performance horse world. His offspring included standout 1D barrel horses and numerous qualifiers for prestigious circuit finals events, showcasing his versatility and ability to produce top performers across a range of disciplines.

Among his many accomplishments, Royal Shake Em sired AQHA Horse of the Year in Steer Wrestling ridden by Ty Erickson, KR Montana Shake Em, further solidifying his reputation as a sire of exceptional athletes. Additionally, his influence extended to the breeding barn, with one of his offspring becoming the influential mare who is the dam to DM Sissy Irish (LTE $2.2 million), a testament to his enduring legacy in the equine world.

According to a social media post, on February 14, 2024, Royal Shake Em was laid to rest, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate for years to come. His remarkable journey from the racetrack to the breeding shed serves as a testament to his enduring impact on the world of Quarter Horse racing and beyond. As his memory lives on through his descendants, Royal Shake Em will forever be remembered as a true legend of the sport.