Gold Case, a dual stakes-winning son of Forty Niner, was euthanized April 21 due to complications from a ruptured disc in his back after covering a mare. He was 20.
Gold Case had recently been purchased by William Nicks to stand the 2014 season at Nicks Farms near Sellersburg, Ind. He had covered seven mares so far this season.
"We acquired him to try to bring a stallion with as much class and a proven stakes producing sire into the state," Nicks said. "He had excellent pedigree, conformation, and was an exceptional horse."
Bred in Virginia by Hickory Tree Farm out of the grade II-winning Private Account mare Silent Account, Gold Case was undefeated in three starts for owner/trainer Louis Roussell III. Among his victories were the 1996 Old Hickory Stakes and Sugar Bowl Handicap, both at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots.
Gold Case, a $175,000 Keeneland September yearling sale purchase, started his stud career in 1998 at Frank Stronach's Adena Springs Kentucky, and then stood from 2006-2013 at Mesa Vista Stud in New Mexico.
The offspring of Gold Case, who has sired 21 stakes winners, have amassed more than $21 million in earnings.
