2/15/2001 – 6/10/19

Command & Control, the Two-time World Grand Champion owned and loved by Sheryl Crawford, passed away on June 10, 2019 due to complications from colic. He was 18 years old.
Fred, as he was affectionately called, was enjoying his first year in the pasture as a retired champion.
Sheryl Crawford loved her fun and feisty horse. Crawford’s stallion, I’m In Command sired Command & Control and this made the bond between the dynamic duo even more special. Fred was out of the Pride’s Generator mare, Gen’s Golden Rose and was bred by McMinnville, Tennessee resident Garvis Stafford.
Keith Davis started the young colt and was purchased early by the late Donald Stephens. As a two year old, Joe Fleming kicked off his show ring career with two blue ribbons. Crawford made it a habit to keep tabs on most of the colts that were sired by her stallion, I’m In Command. Fred was no different. Her trainer Sammy Day took her to ride him and it was an instant bond. Crawford became the new owner of Command & Control and they made their debut ride at that year’s Celebration by earning a 3rd place in the Two Year Old Amateur Stallion class.

By 2009, Command & Control had quite the following of fans. In 2009, he won the Amateur Specialty Reserve World Grand Championship and in 2010 and 2011 he was unstoppable. In 2010 Sheryl directed him to the Elite Owner Amateur Ladies Stallions World Championship and Elite Owner Amateur World Grand Championship. Returning in 2011, this duo won a Reserve World Championship in the Elite Owner Amateur Ladies Stallions class and repeated the Elite Owner Amateur World Grand Championship title. He earned another Reserve World Championship in the same class in 2013. Throughout his stellar show ring career, Command & Control won an outstanding 48 blue ribbons between Sheryl, Winky and Sheila Groover in the irons.

The Crawford family acknowledges Dr. Krista Gillam and Dr. Jim Baum for doing everything they could to save Fred. They also thank Winky Groover for his long-time professional care and Jeremy Carlton for his winter retreats in the early years. The Scoop fondly remembers visiting with Command & Control and Sheryl Crawford in the winners’ circle, and we send our warmest condolences on the loss of a great champion.