Meet Fancy: A Virginia Horse, 37, Who Just Shattered a Guinness World Record
Neha Vashist | Mar 12, 2026, 21:47 IST
She is beautiful, she is strong, she is 37 years old, and currently the world’s oldest living horse. She is Fancy, a Virginia-based Quarter Horse, who will turn 38 in April 2026. She was recently recognised by Guinness World Records; for the unversed, the average lifespan of a horse is between 25 and 30 years.
When Fancy was Josey Wales
According to the Washington Post, when Fancy met with her owner, Paige Blumer, it was love at first sight. Paige was only eight years old back then, and she named the beautiful horse Josey Wales. “She had this very motherly energy. I just always felt like she was going to take care of me,” read the report. Interestingly, Paige and Fancy also share the same birthdate, April 1.
Coming to how Josey Wales became Fancy, reportedly, the horse was put up for sale in 2000. This is when Paige begged her parents to buy her. In June, they surprised her with the horse, and in that moment of joy, she named her ‘Fancy.’ In her defence, the horse is simply “too fancy to be called anything else.”
The journey ahead
They were simply inseparable from the start. Over the next 25 years, Paige and Fancy competed together and formed a bond that can’t be described in words.
If you are wondering how the thought of a world record crossed their mind? The credit goes to Paige’s family. Reportedly, a family member suggested applying for a record, realising Fancy might be the oldest living horse. The member was, of course, right, as the previous record-holder was 36. Their application was approved by the American Quarter Horse Association.
Where is Fancy now?
Fancy is currently living at a retirement farm, which is only a few minutes away from Blumer’s home. She is battling age-related challenges, including equine Cushing’s disease. However, with regular veterinary check-ups, hoof care, and nutrition, she is thriving.
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When Fancy was Josey Wales
Coming to how Josey Wales became Fancy, reportedly, the horse was put up for sale in 2000. This is when Paige begged her parents to buy her. In June, they surprised her with the horse, and in that moment of joy, she named her ‘Fancy.’ In her defence, the horse is simply “too fancy to be called anything else.”
The journey ahead
If you are wondering how the thought of a world record crossed their mind? The credit goes to Paige’s family. Reportedly, a family member suggested applying for a record, realising Fancy might be the oldest living horse. The member was, of course, right, as the previous record-holder was 36. Their application was approved by the American Quarter Horse Association.
Where is Fancy now?
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!