Breeders’ Cup Distaff Winner Blue Prize Dies at 13
Blue Prize, the Argentine champion and 2019 Breeders’ Cup Distaff winner, has died at the age of 13 due to complications following foaling. The mare passed away at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, according to Frank Taylor, Vice President of Boarding Operations at Taylor Made Farms, where she had been boarded throughout her breeding career.
A Stellar Racing Career
Blue Prize achieved significant success both in Argentina and the United States. She secured a Grade 1 victory in Argentina’s Premio Seleccion in 2016, earning the title of Argentine Champion 3-year-ancient Female that same year. Her North American campaign, managed by Ignacio Correas, saw her win eight races, including back-to-back Juddmonte Spinster Stakes (G1) at Keeneland in 2018 and 2019.
The highlight of her career was undoubtedly her triumph in the 2019 Breeders’ Cup Distaff at Santa Anita Park, where she defeated champion Midnight Bisou. She also secured wins in the Falls City Handicap (G2), Fleur de Lis Handicap (G2) and Locust Grove Stakes (G3).
A $5 Million Sale and Breeding Career
Following her Breeders’ Cup Distaff victory, Blue Prize was sold for $5 million to OXO Equine at the Fasig-Tipton November Sale in 2019. She has since been a valuable broodmare.
Blue Prize recently foaled a filly by Life Is Decent approximately one week prior to her death, and the foal is reportedly doing well. Her previous foals include Playback (Into Mischief), who has one win from seven starts, Flock Hill (Instagrand), and Boylston (Practical Joke).
A Legacy of Champions
Blue Prize’s pedigree is also notable. She was a daughter of Pure Prize and Blues for Sale, a G2 winner and the dam of another champion, Blue Stripe. Her lineage continues through several other successful runners, including Blue Caviar and Baron Blue.
Blue Prize is one of only three Argentine-bred horses to win the Breeders’ Cup Distaff, alongside Bayakoa and Paseana. Her untimely passing is a significant loss to the thoroughbred industry.
FAQ
What caused Blue Prize’s death?
Blue Prize died from complications following a hemorrhage after foaling.
How much was Blue Prize sold for?
She was sold for $5 million at the 2019 Fasig-Tipton November Sale.
Where did Blue Prize race?
She raced and won in both Argentina and the United States.
What was Blue Prize’s most famous win?
Her most famous win was the 2019 Breeders’ Cup Distaff.
Did Blue Prize have any foals?
Yes, she had several foals, including Playback, Flock Hill, and Boylston, and recently foaled a filly by Life Is Good.
