Strolling Thru The Ritz passed away August 30, 2025. The beloved stallion was 24 years old.
He was foaled on May 16, 2001. His sire was He’s Puttin’ On The Ritz and his dam was Stride’s Secret Love. Strolling Thru The Ritz was bred by Wayne Folkes and John Collins of Dothan, Alabama, and started his show career at Latham Stables.
As a young two-year-old, the colt was purchased by Don Bridges who moved to Carl Edwards and Sons Stables. The talented pony and Larry Edwards earned a debut blue at King Cotton Charity. This was only the beginning of a great show resume.
In 2009, Strolling Thru The Ritz caught the eye of The Jimmy Reece Family and a new team was formed with Brian Reece taking over the reins under the direction of trainer Brandon Stout. Together this new duo made a mark in the Amateur Canter division claiming blues at the FAST Showcase, Belfast Lions Club, Spring Fun Show, PC Splash Classic and Walking For The Angels, just to mention a few. The highlight of his career came in 2010 as the team captured a Reserve World Championship title in the Owner Amateur Stallions Canter class. This would be followed by a World Grand Championship victory that same year. In 2011 they returned to the big oval, capturing a Reserve World Grand Championship title, and again in 2013. Later in life Strolling Thru The Ritz was trained by Chad Way, who successfully continued showing and winning for The Reece Family. Following the 2017 show season, Strolling Thru The Ritz was retired to pasture life. The talented 15.2 & Under Stallion entered the ring a total of 89 times capturing 40 blues and 13 reserve honors.
Fifteen years after Strolling Thru The Ritz won a World Grand Championship, he passed from this life. The Reece Family sends a special thanks to Brandon Stout, Chad Way and others who helped make such a memorable show career for Strolling Thru The Ritz. He was a once in a lifetime horse that will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.