Derby-Winning Filly Dead at 31

Genuine Risk only filly to finish in top 3 of all Triple Crown races
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Aug 18, 2008 4:42 PM CDT

Genuine Risk, one of only three fillies to win the Kentucky Derby, died this morning in Virginia. She was 31. The 1980 Derby winner died peacefully after eating a hearty breakfast and being turned out in her paddock, said an administrator at Newstead Farm, adding that the chestnut mare had not been ill. Genuine Risk was the only filly to finish in the top three in each of the Triple Crown races.

Genuine Risk was the oldest living Derby winner. Ridden by Jacinto Vasquez, she captured the Derby, was second to Codex in a controversial Preakness, and ran second in the Belmont. "Genuine Risk was an amazing horse with tremendous heart that lived a life befitting a champion," owners Bertram and Diane Firestone said in a statement. "We are truly blessed that she was a part of our life." (More obituary stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X