In 1967, Scottsdale's longtime Arabian horse breeder Ed Tweed embarked on a mission to race the horses he bred. He imported a chestnut stallion from Poland named Orzel, or "Eagle" in English, that flew past competitors to become the first U.S. National Racing Champion. Among other wins in halter and performance, Orzel was the victor in the debut of the U.S. National Championship Ladies' Sidesaddle category, partnered with Tweed's granddaughter Shelley Groom Trevor. Thousands of fans visited the legendary performer in retirement at Brusally Ranch. Decades after Orzel's death, horses he sired continue his winning legacy. Author Tobi Lopez Taylor chronicles this triumphant story.
Tobi Lopez Taylor is an award-winning writer and editor whose work has appeared in anthologies as well as various national magazines, including American Indian Art Magazine, Blood-Horse and Horse Illustrated. Among other accolades, she has been given an achievement award by the Arizona Archaeological and Historical Society and a Sprint Award for excellence in equine journalism for previous works. She lives on a small ranch in southern Arizona, where she raises and rides Arabian horses.