Bugsy the One-Eyed TB Meets His ‘Little Brother’

In June, we shared an update to the story of Elizabeth O’Connor and “Bugsy,” the one-eyed $500 Thoroughbred, after the pair earned their USDF Gold Medal while O’Connor was in her third trimester. At the end of August, Bugsy’s “little brother” was born!

One of my favorite things about Horse Nation is when we get the opportunity to share a truly unique, special, heartwarming story that resonates with readers and inspires us all to continue to hope, dream, work hard and achieve the impossible.

One of our favorite such stories was first introduced to Horse Nation in the fall of 2014, when we met Elizabeth O’Connor and Bugsy. Elizabeth had achieved her USDF Bronze and Silver medals on a most unlikely equine partner: Bugsy was a one-eyed Thoroughbred she had purchased for $500 as an unstarted two-year-old. Readers loved the story of Elizabeth and Bugsy, a true underdog tale of a unique pair achieving great success thanks to their years of hard work.

We were excited to publish a follow-up in June of this year, when Elizabeth and Bugsy, after multiple challenges and setbacks, achieved the USDF Gold Medal — while Elizabeth was in her third trimester, proving again that modern-day fairy tales can in fact come true.

And we’re thrilled to bring you the latest chapter: Elizabeth’s son was born on August 21, and on September 10, Bugsy finally got to meet his “little brother:”

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth O’Connor

“Bugsy was intrigued by him!” Elizabeth told Horse Nation. “I had to have an emergency C-section so I am still trying to be good and rest from that — hoping to be able to get on at least walk soon.”

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth O’Connor

“Next is to let Bugs just be a pleasure/lower level horse and I am hoping with the little one to be able to ride three days a week or so. I have the two year old Benetton Dream gelding who I will start lightly next summer! But for now going to enjoy the little one!”

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth O’Connor

Technically, this little guy was already in the saddle to earn the USDF Gold Medal — so who knows what’s in store for a riding future? Our heartiest congratulations to Elizabeth and family! Follow Bugsy’s next adventures at his Facebook page. Go riding!