The Great I Am was laid to rest at the Ricker family farm in Greeneville, Tennessee, after complications from colic on January 21, 2024. 

On May 2 of 2018, a beautiful black colt was born at 4 The Glory Farms in Shelbyville, Tennessee. He was out of She’s Lined & Toxic and sired by I Am Jose’. At four days old, the Ricker family laid eyes on him in a field full of horses and knew instantly he was going to be something special. He was purchased by The Ricker family from Herbert and Jill Derickson, who then went on to start him as a colt. 

His name was chosen carefully and thoughtfully by the Ricker family, in hopes to honor the Lord & his creation of the Tennessee Walking horse. Through his younger years, many admired the back-end he had, a big part of what the Ricker family saw in him as a weanling. The Great I Am had a strong show career, with many top wins. He was shown by Charlie Green, Tanner Burks, Hayden Burks and Tyler Baucom. The most memorable wins for the Ricker family was his World Championship and Reserve World Grand Championship with Tyler Baucom as a Four-Year-Old at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. 

In 2023, Danielle Ricker-Cutshaw took the reins in addition to Tyler Baucom. Danielle’s first time back in the ring since 2020, was a win aboard The Great I Am. For many years, the Ricker family had dreamed of owning a top stallion to compete and The Great I Am fulfilled those dreams in his short time on earth. 

We were so blessed to have owned such a beautiful animal, who has provided so many great memories for our family and allowed us to meet some amazing people along the way. We would like to thank Herbert and Jill Derickson for the opportunity to own The Great I Am, as well as Charlie Green, Tanner Burks, Hayden Burks, Tyler and Kayla Baucom & the rest of the Baucom Stables crew for taking such good care of him. 
Thank you to his fans, for always supporting & encouraging us along the way! 

“Jesus, Great “I AM” and Lord of what is, said “Come to Me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. May His name be glorified above all else.