Sham (Pretense) was dark bay, almost black in color. He raced with the green and yellow silks of the Sigmund and Viola Sommer stable. His running style was that of a stalker, gradually improving his position during the race. Sham was a large horse and also had a very large heart, about twice the size of the average thoroughbred’s, as discovered during the necropsy after his death…..

Sham, a name that echoes through racing history, was a horse of remarkable presence and character. His coat, a deep, dark bay almost bordering on black, shimmered under the sunlight as he galloped gracefully on the track. His sleek, muscular frame was a testament to his strength and agility, qualities that made him a formidable competitor in the racing world. Clad in the vibrant green and yellow silks of the Sigmund and Viola Sommer stable, Sham was a familiar sight to racing enthusiasts, known not just for his speed but for his indomitable spirit.

From the moment he stepped onto the racetrack, Sham displayed a racing style that set him apart. He was a classic stalker—someone who bided his time, conserving energy in the early stages of the race, then gradually improving his position as the field stretched out. This strategy suited his temperament and build perfectly; Sham was a large horse, commanding in stature, yet surprisingly nimble. His ability to patiently wait and then surge with power made him a challenging opponent for any rival.

Sham’s size was notable among thoroughbreds. He was larger than most of his peers, with a broad chest, strong hindquarters, and a commanding presence. But it was his heart—literally—that truly distinguished him. During a necropsy conducted after his death, vets discovered that Sham’s heart was approximately twice the size of the average thoroughbred’s. This extraordinary trait was a testament to his exceptional stamina and determination. His large heart allowed him to pump more oxygen-rich blood to his muscles, giving him an endurance advantage that often carried him through grueling races where others faltered.

Throughout his career, Sham proved time and again that he was more than just a big horse with a big heart; he was a symbol of perseverance and resilience. His races were marked by a steady, unwavering pace, often leaving spectators in awe as he moved up methodically from behind, overtaking tired rivals in the final stretch. His style was not flashy, nor was it the most aggressive, but it was effective—a testament to his intelligence and patience on the track.

The green and yellow silks of the Sommer stable became synonymous with Sham’s name. Owned and trained by a dedicated team, Sham was meticulously prepared for each race, his training regimen tailored to maximize his unique strengths. The stable knew that Sham’s power lay in his endurance and tactical racing, so they grounded his training in building stamina and teaching him to conserve energy for the decisive moment.

Off the track, Sham was a gentle giant. Despite his imposing size and racing reputation, he was known to be calm and affectionate with his handlers. He responded well to gentle strokes and was a favorite among the stable staff. His temperament was steady, rarely showing signs of nervousness or agitation, which further contributed to his reliability as a competitor.

His career was filled with memorable moments. One race, in particular, stands out—the summer stakes when Sham was trailing behind as the final turn approached. The crowd was tense, knowing that Sham’s style meant he was likely to make his move late in the race. As they entered the homestretch, Sham began to accelerate, his powerful legs eating up ground with every stride. The large heart within him beat fiercely, pumping oxygen and energy as he drew level with the leaders. In a burst of speed and determination, Sham surged forward, overtaking in a breathtaking display of stamina and willpower. The roar of the crowd echoed as he crossed the finish line in front, a testament to his unique combination of size, strength, and heart.

His legacy extended beyond his victories. Sham exemplified the qualities of resilience and quiet determination. His large heart was often used as a metaphor among trainers and fans—a reminder that true strength lies not just in muscle but also in spirit. His story inspired many, illustrating that perseverance and patience could triumph over raw speed alone.

Sadly, Sham’s life came to an end in a manner that shocked and saddened those who loved him. During a routine examination, veterinarians discovered a rare cardiac condition that ultimately led to his passing. Post-mortem examinations revealed the truth behind Sham’s legendary stamina: his heart was indeed twice the size of an average thoroughbred’s, a biological marvel that had fueled his extraordinary performances. The discovery cemented his place in racing lore, a symbol of the extraordinary potential that can reside within a creature of remarkable design.

Today, Sham’s memory endures among racing enthusiasts and historians. His story is a reminder that greatness often comes from within—both physically and mentally—and that sometimes, it takes a horse of Sham’s size and heart to remind us of the power of perseverance, patience, and unwavering dedication. He remains a legend, not merely for his victories but for the spirit he embodied—a true giant in both body and heart.