Free Spirit’s Joy, winner of the 1991 Super Derby (gr. I) at Louisiana Downs, has been relocated to Old Friends equine retirement home near Georgetown, Ky. The 22-year-old son of Joey Bob out the Staunch Avenger mare Rays Joy formerly resided in Colorado.
Free Spirit’s Joy was an up-and-comer going into the Super Derby for owner Free Spirit Stable. Based at Louisiana Downs with trainer Clarence Picou and winner of two Louisiana stakes immediately prior to the $1 million Super Derby, Free Spirit’s Boy faced major runners Best Pal, Olympio, and the filly Lite Light. Sent off at 28-1, Free Spirit’s Joy beat Olympio by 2 1/2 lengths, with favorite Best Pal and Lite Light finishing unplaced. The time, 2:00 4/5, was three-fifths of a second slower than the track record.
During his career, Free Spirit’s Joy won or placed in 21 of 32 races and earned $841,277.
Picou’s daughter, Suzie Picou-Oldham, spearheaded the effort to retire Free Spirit’s Joy to Old Friends.