Great stallions never die, but live on through their progeny. So it is with Smart Little Lena, who suffered a debilitating stroke this morning and was humanely put to rest by Dr. John McCarroll.

“It is one thing to recognize a horse for all his great accomplishments, but it’s another thing to be fortunate enough to really have known him,” said longtime Manion Ranch employee Robin Levison, who was with Smart Little Lena at the end and who found it hard speak.

Levison said that the 31-year-old legendary cutting horse champion and sire had been in good condition until the stroke.

Check back here for an upcoming tribute to Smart Little Lena.