Quarters and 72's

We elected to be tourists again today in Amarillo, Texas. Our first stop was the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum. Located just off I-40 on the east side of Amarillo, this museum is dedicated to a horse that would define the American West; preferred by cowboys and horse racing fans alike, this horse has had a legendary impact on the world.

The American Quarter Horse is perhaps known for its versatility. It is smart and agile, making it perfect for cattle herding duties. It is best know for its ability to out think a calf and "cut" it out of the herd.

This bronze of Sacred captures the classical elegance of the breed.

The American Quarter Horse became a favorite mount during the days of the great cattle drives.

The Grand Hall at the entrance to the Hall of Fame is lined with pictures of inductees. both human and equine.

Adjacent to the Grand Hall, the Schatbaur Gallery highlights Quarter Horse works of art.

Included in the exhibit is this painting of "The Last Day of Summer".

 The second floor highlights artifacts from the history of the Quarter Horse, as well as contributions from Hall of Fame inductees, including this belt buckle.

Racing the Quarter Horse began back in colonial days. The name of the breed originates from the short courses used (usually main street in town) for the venue. The horses were bred to have stamina and agility, but do best in shorter races. The All American Futurity race, held at Riudoso Downs in Riudoso, New Mexico is now the premier race for Quarter Horses. The track is 440 yards long, and the quick critters will cover that distance in 21 seconds or less!

In 1972, Mickey Mantle was presented with a Quarter Horse by the AQHA.

We left the AQHA Museum with confidence that we could ride the Quarter Horse they had on display!

Next, we visited another iconic Amarillo destination: The Big Texan Steak Ranch.

The first thing you see as you enter this fine dining establishment is the gift shop. D tried on a pair of Texas bling glasses complete with a shade for her lovely nose!

While I tried to convince her that I needed a new hat...well, we are in Texas, no?

Ok, here's the thing about the free 72 ounce steak: You must consume the steak (4 1/2 pounds of meat!), along with salad, baked potato, and vegetables in 60 minutes or less! One sprightly lass, Molly, has the current record, consuming the full meal in just 9 minutes, and ordering another and eating it within another 16 minutes! She has promised to return to try for three meals within an hour!

A brave soul had just sat down at the (torture) table when we were seated. His countdown clock shows 50 minutes remaining.

As time progressed, he began to slow...

Until finally he ran out of time. The meal is paid for in advance ($72), with the cost returned if the meal is consumed according to the rules. Our hero didn't make it, but by then "Florida Fred" was at the table devouring the meal with gusto!

As we left, Florida Fred had a good chance winning the gastronomical challenge. His technique? Cut steak into two pieces. Slice off strips about 6" long. Cut into 2" squares. Insert into mouth. Swallow. Insert into mouth. Swallow....you get the picture. What a way to enjoy a roast big enough for a Sunday dinner!

Oh, and what did we have? Well, Julie, we had a nice tomato, onion, and jalapeño salad.....

Followed by a slab of ribs for Donna....and a nice sirloin for me. The food was very good, better in fact than we expected, and the entertainment was unique, to say the least!

Tomorrow we're off on another adventure, getting ever closer to our west-coast home! Can't wait!