GLASGOW, Ky. — At 60 years old, Jeff Williams has accomplished a lot in his life. He's been riding horses since he was a young man, trying to perfect his racking style for years. 

"I’ve been in horses all my life," said Williams "I have been fooling with racking horses since I was 12 to 15 years old.”

The racking style is typically known for a horse's gait – typically going from walks, to gallop, to run, being graded in each stage. Competitions are held all over the country where he often placed in the top three.

That was until his most recent and biggest competition yet, where he became the first African-American competitor ever to finish first and win the title of world grand champion at the Racking Horse World Celebration in Decatur, Alabama.

"Being the first it is a major accomplishment, not just as in being the first to do but set the stage that anything can be done through anybody," Williams said. "If you keep your hand in God's hand, sooner or later it will come to you.”

A man of faith as well, Williams serves as a pastor in Smith Grove. This accomplishment is something he has coveted for a long time, training five days a week with his horse, Sunny by Day.

Williams is now a trailblazer in the sport, and was understandably overcome with emotion when he heard his name called as he won the 19-man completion and forever has his name in the history books. 

“It took me a minute for it to sink in," said Williams. "Is this really me? And believe me, I have had more times of getting second or not getting nothing then I have to win it, so it was really, really amazing.”

Williams said he won't stop there. He's already training for the next competition.

Not only did Williams become the first Black man to win the competition, but he also was one of the rare owned and trained riders as well. Something that's rare for many competitors. 

Williams is humbled about the award but also knows that he must continue to "work to defend his crown" and hopefully make his first place finishes a recurring theme.

"We have one more this year in Mississippi," said Williams. "Then we just start getting ready for next year continue to exercise and get better and hopefully win again.”

Williams said he gives all glory to God for this win, and his reception has been wonderful. 

"This really would not be possible without God's blessing," said Williams. "My family has been so supportive and happy for me. All those hours have really paid off."

It's truly a lifetime accomplishment for a man who has been dedicated his entire life to family and to his horse.