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Genuine Reward, Son of Genuine Risk, Euthanized at 25

Genuine Reward © Laura Battles.

GEORGETOWN, KY – AUGUST 16, 2018 – Genuine Reward, one of the only living offspring of Kentucky Derby winning-filly Genuine Risk, was euthanized at Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement facility in Georgetown, KY, where he had been pensioned since 2015.   The stallion was 25.

Genuine Reward never raced due to numerous health issues, but began a stud career at Meadowville Farm in The Plains, VA and later at Eagle Point Farm in Ashland, VA before eventually heading west to Sheridan, WY, where he stood as a polo stallion with the American Polo Horse Association run by owner Perk Connell.

The chestnut son of Rahy was retired and discovered for sale by acclaimed author Laura Hillenbrand (Seabiscuit, Unbroken), who promptly sponsored his placement at Old Friends.

Genuine Risk, campaigned by Bert and Diana Firestone, was only the second filly in history to win the Kentucky Derby. She finished second in a controversial edition of the Preakness Stakes behind Codex and was also second in the Belmont Stakes.

Retired in 1982, Genuine Risk had difficulty carrying a foal. After numerous attempts, she finally, in 1993, delivered Genuine Reward to great fanfare. But the colt’s anticipated racing career was never to be. He underwent colic surgery as a foal, had breathing problems as a yearling, and bucked his shins multiple times.

“He was such a sweet horse, and a tremendous fan favorite, as you might imagine,” said Old Friends president Michael Blowen. “We were so honored to add him to our roster. Our thanks go out to Laura Hillenbrand and Perk Connell for letting Genuine Reward spend his last years with us.”

For more information, please call (502) 863-1775 or visit the website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cindy@oldfriendsequine.org; Michael Blowen (502) 863-1775, michael@oldfriendsequine.org

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