Halo America during her racing years. (Photo by Laura Battles)

GEORGETOWN, KY – JULY 8, 2016 – Pensioned broodmare Halo America has died. The Grade 1 winning, millionaire was euthanized July 7 due to declining health at Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility based in Georgetown, KY. She was 26.

The mare had retired to Old Friends in 2014 following a prestigious breeding career at Hill ‘n’ Dale Farm in Lexington. She was cared for at Nuckols Farm in Midway for most of her tenure, but returned to Old Friends’ Georgetown location when space became available.

Halo America was bred in Florida by John Franks and she also raced in his colors, capturing 15 wins while racing to the age of 7. One of the most successful progeny of the stallion Waquoit, the mare earned nine stakes victories, including the 1997 Apple Blossom (G1) and the 1996 Molly Pritchard Breeders’ Cup Handicap (GR2).

She also won her final career start, the Louisville Breeders’ Cup Handicap (GR2) at Churchill Downs, which brought her career earnings to over $1.46 million.

As a broodmare she is well represented by the Irish Stakes winner Marino Marini and the multiple graded stakes placed Quick Temper.

In 2009 Halo America foaled the only colt from the last crop of the great sire Storm Cat.

“Halo America wasn’t with us long but it didn’t take her long to make a lasting impression,” said Old Friends founder and President Michael Blowen. “She was a spectacular racehorse, a successful broodmare and a kind, intelligent, beautiful old friend. Thanks to Hill ‘n’ Dale for trusting us to care for her and to Charles Nuckols for providing a spot for her until she could come to the main farm.”

For additional information, contact Old Friends at (502) 863-1775.

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that cares for more than 160 retired racehorses. Its Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. Old Friends also has a satellite facility in Greenfield Center, New York, Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division, which is also open to visitors. For more information on tours or to make a donation, contact the main farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

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