In the heart of Slovakia, amidst the rolling hills and deep traditions of the countryside, one competition brings together strength, endurance, and the unbreakable bond between man and horse — the Kľačianská Podkova. Held annually in the village of Kľačany, this beloved event showcases the power and spirit of working horses. In 2018, a true legend emerged from the competition: Tarzan.
Tarzan, a magnificent draft horse, stunned the crowd and judges alike by winning the prestigious heavy pull category. This event, one of the most challenging in the entire competition, requires horses to pull massive logs or weighted sleds across a set distance — a true test of both physical power and mental determination. Competing against some of the strongest horses in the region, Tarzan stood out with his sheer strength, calm demeanor, and seamless coordination with his handler.
The heavy pull isn’t just about brute force; it reflects generations of tradition where horses once played a central role in forestry and farming. Tarzan’s performance was a beautiful reminder of that heritage, and his victory brought pride not only to his handler but to all those who value Slovak rural traditions.
Spectators cheered, children clapped, and horse lovers from all over Slovakia celebrated the champion. Tarzan didn’t just win a contest — he became a symbol of resilience, grace, and the enduring partnership between humans and horses.
As the sun set on Kľačianská Podkova 2018, Tarzan walked away not only with the winner’s ribbon but also with a place in the hearts of everyone who witnessed his unforgettable performance.