Bold Forbes, 1976 Derby Winner, Destroyed

Bold Forbes, the 1976 Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes winner, was humanely destroyed because of intestinal problems and kidney failure.

The 27-year-old stallion, who was the oldest living Derby winner, was euthanized Wednesday at the Kentucky Horse Park, said John Nicholson, executive director of the park.

Bold Forbes, the 1976 3-year-old champion, was buried at the park near Forego, a three-time horse of the year in the mid-1970s, and the standardbred Rambling Willie.

“Bold Forbes’ spirit and vitality was an inspiration to us all,” Nicholson said. “As the oldest living Kentucky Derby winner, he was a special symbol of our heritage. I am glad he had a healthy and happy retirement right up to his last days.”

Sired by Irish Castle out of Comely Nell, Bold Forbes was foaled on March 31, 1973. He won seven of eight starts in 1975 and in ’76 went wire-to-wire in winning the Derby and Belmont. He finished third in the Preakness.