Genuine Reward, Son of Genuine Risk, Euthanized at 25

Genuine Reward, one of only two live offspring produced by Hall of Famer and Kentucky Derby (G1) winning-Genuine Risk, was euthanized Aug. 15 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 because of 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 he eventually was sent west to Sheridan, Wyo. There, 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, who sponsored his placement at Old Friends.

Genuine Risk, campaigned by Bert and Diana Firestone, is one of three fillies to win the Kentucky Derby. She captured the Louisville classic in 1980, then finished second in a controversial edition of the Preakness Stakes (G1) behind Codex. She was also second in the Belmont Stakes (G1) en route to earning Eclipse Award honors for champion 3-year-old filly.

Retired in 1982, Genuine Risk had difficulty carrying a foal. After numerous attempts, in 1993 she 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." 

In 1996, Genuine Risk delivered a colt by Chief Honcho later named Count Our Blessing. Count Our Blessing also was unraced.