Bodog Beat

Born March 9, 1975, the American Thoroughbred named after folk hero, John Henry went peacefully as he was euthanized at the age of 32, on Oct. 8. (AP Images)

His team which includes Hall of Champions director Cathy Roby, who has cared for the gelding for the last 16 years, and his breeder, Verna Lehmann, made the difficult decision to put the champion down, after being non responsive to medical treatment. After losing a considerable amount of body mass and experiencing kidney failure, John Henry's veterinarian, Dr. Mike Beyer, found it impossible to keep him properly hydrated and comfortable during his last 48 hours of the treatment.

"Over the years, our goal has always been to maintain the highest quality of care and life for him, and it became evident over the weekend that this was no longer possible. Our hearts go out to all of those who so deeply cared for John during his long and charismatic life."

The legendary gelding had been at the Kentucky Horse Park since 1985 and retired after 22 years. He was not born to greatness nor posses the physical attributes or blood lines to be great however, from his birth John felt compelled to fight for everything in life, whether it was with his handlers in the barn or with his opposition on the track.

"John Henry was a testament to the fact a horse's value is far greater than the sum of his pedigree, conformation, sales price and race record," said Kentucky Horse Park executive director John Nicholson. "Racing has lost a legend, but many people have lost a personal hero. John Henry's true legacy was written in people's hearts."

John Henry had earned seven Eclipse Awards, two for Horse of the Year (1981 and 1984), four as turf male (1980, 1981, 1983, 1984) and one as top older male (1981). He was also inducted to the Hall of fame in 1990.

John Henry will be buried near his paddock at the Hall of Champions.

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