Sam Kauffman Poet Free verse

Snowman - Eighty Dollar Legend

Snowman - Eighty Dollar Legend

Through gales of howling snows
Three horses in the knackers van, 
Auction over;

Two with eyes cast down to meet their fate in frozen tears
But one, head raised up high - living fire still in the eyes of eight years past,
Engages delayed latecomer to the sale to manifest a spirit jumping out -
Standing up on wounded knees and harness scars upon smooth cheeks.

Not ready! 
Not ready for the final bridle path! 
A message screaming in the blizzard's screams!

Hands born with equine wisdom in their fingers 
Reach to touch the muscled frame,
This plough horse clothed in a humble coat of frozen white, 

How much! 
How much for this horse?  
Eighty dollars whistles through the teeth of the wind. 

Just enough!  Enough!
Two strangers peek out around the future's corner
To grab tomorrow's hand held out.

New name – a memory for the day of resurrection;
New home - a paradise for a life reborn through children’s hands –
New meadows – second chances 
New arenas - soaring over hurdles to thoroughbred's applause.

A plough horse who defied all odds 
Now a legend - celebrated jumping horse who wears a trip crown
Snowman - eighty dollar champion who loved the heights - 
To fly!


Dedicated to Henry de Leyer and Snowman the horse he rescued on a snowy winter day who became American Horses Association Horse of the Year, Professional Horseman’s Association Champion, Champion of Madison Square Garden’s Diamond Jubilee – the Triple Crown of Show Jumping.

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Nicola Davidson November 11, 2021 at 1:49 AM Not been on this site for months Sam but this poem about “Snowman”, reduced me to tears, utterly beautiful! Sam Kauffman November 11, 2021 at 9:10 AM Thank you so much Nicola! Snowman's story has always had that same effect on me. It is the story of miracles, second chances, the will to survive, true courage and touches something very deep in my heart. If you are interested there is a book about Snowman and Henri called The Eighty Dollar Champion. The book is the basis for my poem. So grateful for your visit - added extra sunshine to my day! All the best.

Suzanne Delaney October 23, 2021 at 5:10 PM Congratulations Sam: Wonderfully expressed tale of a legendary horse. Best, SuZ Sam Kauffman October 24, 2021 at 9:00 AM Hi SuZ! I am so happy you liked this story of Snowman and Henry. It touched something very deep in me. For me, it is pure joy to share this story of triumph of the spirit and finding the hidden miracles of life. And to think this incredible horse came so close to being destroyed is pure angst! There really are no coincidences in life. Hope you are well. Blessings to you.

Unseeking Seeker October 16, 2021 at 12:56 AM Congrats on your top win Sam, inspiring to know the details of Snowman! Sam Kauffman October 18, 2021 at 12:00 PM Thank you Seeker! Snowman's story has touched me at a very deep level. This amazing horse never gave up, never relinquished the fire in his heart even through eight years of suffering, mistreatment and brushing death. This is truly the story of triumph! I first learned about Snowman in the book The Eighty Dollar Champion. It is an amazing read! Sending you blessings!

Paula Goldsmith October 15, 2021 at 11:41 AM Congratulations on your win. An amazing story/write. Thanks for adding more at the bottom. I love this one. Have a blessed autumn day.......... Sam Kauffman October 15, 2021 at 1:40 PM Thank you so much my friend! Snowman's story is amazing. I wanted everyone to know more of the details. I'm so glad you enjoyed the summary notes. I was introduced to Snowman by the book The Eighty Dollar Champion - a great read! Sending you all the blessings of the season!

Regina Mcintosh October 15, 2021 at 3:34 AM Amazing. I didn't know about this horse. This is awesome. A great write. Love it. God bless you and Congrats on a top win. Love, Gina Sam Kauffman October 15, 2021 at 1:32 PM Thank you so much Gina! Snowman's story is one of our mysterious and miraculous God in full on action! No coincidences! All working for the good. I was introduced to Snowman's story in the book The Eighty Dollar Champion. It's a wonderful read that will leave a hoof print in your heart. Blessings, love and a hug! Here's to second chances!

Beata Agustin October 15, 2021 at 2:49 AM Wow! Congrats! Thanks for sharing this... I learned a valuable "horse-lesson" today. Thanks likewise for your comments... I do cherish them, along with your friendship. God bless you. Sam Kauffman October 15, 2021 at 1:27 PM Thank you my friend! It is a special joy, and treasure of the heart, to share faith, family and poetry with you - like an interlude of happiness and moment of fellowship! Snowman's story is beyond amazing. I feel so blessed to be able to tell it in verse. I always love hearing from you! Sending you many blessings! :D

Christuraj Alex October 14, 2021 at 8:51 PM A beautiful and vivid write and a tribute to Snowman. Congratulations! Sam Kauffman October 15, 2021 at 1:22 PM Thank you so much Chris. Every time I think of Henry and Snowman and how Snowman was almost sent to the glue factory, I am almost brought to tears and reminded of the miracles God brings about in this world! Blessings!

Michelle Faulkner October 14, 2021 at 4:50 PM Glad to see this wondrous write take the top prize! I remember this from my horse contest, too - congratulations a second time :) Sam Kauffman October 15, 2021 at 1:15 PM Thank you so much Michelle! I have you, and your wonderful contest, to credit for the birth of this poem. Snowman's story of grit, determination and love has left an indelible mark on my heart. I was so honored by your placement of this poem and completely and utterly delighted by its win in Robert's contest. Have a great weekend my friend!

Robert James Liguori October 14, 2021 at 4:26 PM Congratulations on your first place finish. Well deserved. Sam Kauffman October 15, 2021 at 1:10 PM Robert, many thanks and much gratitude. Snowman's story is a tribute to the relationship of man and horse, determination and faith against all odds, the beauty found in these amazing creations and letting us soar like Snowman! All the best!

Anisha Dutta April 5, 2020 at 12:13 AM WONDERFUL. Charm in every sentence. BIG CONGRATS to win on your well deserved poem.

Gary Smith April 3, 2020 at 6:25 AM Excellent read Sam, congrats. :)

John Watt April 3, 2020 at 1:09 AM Sam, an engaging narrative told with the cadence of a master storyteller. The reader is drawn in to the horse's fate at the auction in the snow. The postscript is enlightening and sounds like a book or movie should be made of this equine rags to riches tale. I love "Eighty dollars whistles through the teeth of the wind" as well as the "New" triplet. Powerful! Congrats on your win! Sam Kauffman April 3, 2020 at 1:35 AM Thank you so much John. This is a very special story for me. There is so much more to the story - had to go bare bones. I discovered Snowman in the book The Eighty Dollar Champion - a wonderful read! This poem really did flow - it is one of my favorites. Many blessings dear friend! Also, love your winning poem!

Connie Marcum Wong April 2, 2020 at 10:28 PM I am so happy to see this wonderful entry on the winner's list Sam. I am back to congratulate you on your win! xxoo Sam Kauffman October 18, 2021 at 12:02 PM Sending you prayers dear friend! Much love and a carefully given hug! Sam Kauffman April 2, 2020 at 11:00 PM Thank you my friend. I am so glad that this poem made the cut - so to speak! And, congratulations on your win. I have loved your poem! Happy to see it on the winner's list. Sending you a virtual hug!

Michelle Faulkner April 2, 2020 at 7:03 PM Congratulations on placing in my contest, Sam, thanks for entering Sam Kauffman April 2, 2020 at 7:14 PM Wonderful theme. So grateful for the chance to share Snowman's incredible story. Thank you for your congratulations and the placement.

Gordon Mcconnell March 31, 2020 at 4:03 PM An amazing story Sam told so well with great imagery and great expression too. Hope all is well with you, keep safe and healthy, Blessings always,Gordon Sam Kauffman March 31, 2020 at 11:56 PM Hi Gordon! Snowman's story is so special - a real rags to riches. So filled with hope. Thank you for your encouraging words for this special story in poetry. All is well. I am always grateful for your blessings and know you are in my prayers!

Connie Marcum Wong March 30, 2020 at 2:12 AM I loved this story and how brilliantly you weaved it into a beautiful true poetic story. I will bet this will be a top winner Sam.xxoo Sam Kauffman March 30, 2020 at 2:20 AM Connie, thank you so much! This true story grabbed my heart about three years ago. What a blessing to be able to tell it again through a poetic form! I am so grateful for your feedback always! And I am so happy Snowman's story spoke to you - a horse lover! That means a lot! Stay well. Many blessings!

Jenish Somadas March 29, 2020 at 11:57 PM Wonderful..Wonderful verse..I totally enjoyed the way you composed.. Good luck in the contest Sam.. Sam Kauffman March 30, 2020 at 12:03 AM Thank you Jenish. I am so grateful for your message! The story of Snowman is so incredible I just had to share it in some form. I loved the book and was sorry I didn't know about Snowman. Take care and stay healthy! All the best.