Patton, a stakes-winning son of Lord at War and a retiree at Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement farm in Georgetown, KY, was euthanized at Hagyards Equine Medical Institute January 5th.
Michael Blowen, founder and president of Old Friends, made the announcement today.
The 23 year-old-stallion had been at the clinic for several days undergoing diagnostic and medical care. He was beset with a variety of medical issues that severely impacted his present and future quality of life.
“We’re extremely grateful to Dr. Kathy MacGillivray and to Dr. Gina Tranquillo for their kind concern for Patton’s welfare,” said Blowen in a statement.
Patton (Lord at War (ARG) – Slew Me Down, by Seattle Slew) was campaigned by Skip Away trainer Sonny Hine and won six of his 18 starts, including the G2 Breeders’ Cup Handicap at Gulfstream Park in 1996. His track earnings totaled $237,462.
Entering stud in 1997, Patton sired Precisionist Stakes winner Patton’s Victory, bred by Brereton Jones, and millionaire Kelly’s Landing.
“Patton should have been named Gandhi,” added Blowen. “He was one of the kindest stallions we’ve ever had at Old Friends. Like so many of his predecessors, he is irreplaceable. We are just grateful that he let us take care of him in his later years.”