Cancer takes oldest living Breeders’ Cup Champion: Gulch

Georgetown, Ky. (WTVQ) — Michael Blowen, founder and president of Old Friends, announced the passing of Gulch this morning, explaining sadly that complications with the Champion’s cancer led to euthanization.

Gulch was the oldest living Breeder’s Cup Champion, at 32 years of age, and sired a number of other Champions; including Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner Thunder Gulch,  and 2011 Breeders’ Cup Mile Champion Court Vision.

“He was a horse that was well known to the public – having been through the Triple Crown trail and having been a top two-year-old and a champion sprinter,” said Lane’s End principal Bill Farish in a 2009 release, after Gulch’s retirement to Old Friends was announced. “He was a horse that people always wanted to see. Plus, he’s kind of a ham, and he will enjoy the attention immensely.”

After quoting Gulch’s first trainer in saying “Gulch must be the toughest horse who ever lived,” Blowen added “He was confident, self-possessed and regal. He didn’t demand respect–he earned it. He is irreplaceable.”

(Photo from Breeder’s Cup Churchill Downs 6 Furlongs Track- June 1, 1986)

(Main Photo by EquiSport) – Gulch in retirement at Old Friends