Born May 24, 1965, Johnny Tivio was by well-known sire Poco Tivio and out of the Spanish mustang mare Chowchilla Pee Wee, bred Charles and Christie Araujo, of Coalinga, California. Carrying the Hackamore around like a champion early in his show career, Johnny Tivio captured all major Hackamore titles during his 3-and 4-year-old years at iconic West Coast cow horse venues, with NRCHA Hall of Fame rider Harry Rose aboard.

California horseman Monty Roberts kept a close eye on the incredible equine athlete. In 1961, circumstances changed and Roberts jumped at the opportunity to purchase Johnny Tivio. “I was a rider, looking down the neck of one of the greatest horses that ever lived.” Roberts said. “For a horse to know how to rope a calf, head and heel a steer, dry [rein] work, cut and down the fence and western pleasure all in one day, there was something special about that horse, and it wasn’t me. It was something in his genetics.”

The all-around stallion’s list of achievements including California Reined Cow Horse and Stock Horse Champion, Cow Palace All-Around Working Cow Horse, Rodeo Salinas Stock Horse Stakes and Open Cutting Champion, AQHA Western Riding Champion. He also earned Register of Merit in Calf Roping and Working Cow Horse, and 1966 Pacific Coast Cutting Champion, all with Roberts aboard.

On May 24, 1981, Johnny Tivio passed away and was laid to rest on Roberts’ Flags Up Farm.