Big Boy

For folks who have never seen these massive animals (the Belgians range between 2,000 and 2,800 pounds in weight), the draft pull is sure to be an eye-opener! The Draft Horse Pull is one of the most popular show attractions. This Belgian was impatient to get to work, pawing the ground and swinging back and forth churning the dirt in his tie area. His cleated  shoes enable him to get traction and lean into the harness with his partner during the heavy-weight draft pull competitions. I found him behind the arena stands at the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo, Colorado.

"Big Boy" 18" x 24" oil ©2000 Deborah Rae Nelson