Iza Valentine, 1985 California Broodmare of the Year, was euthanized Aug. 6. The 33-year-old mare, one of Our Mims Retirement Haven’s original "ladies," had been in failing health for the past few weeks, according to farm manager Jeanne Mirabito. The retirement farm is located at Ahwenasa Farm near Paris, Ky.
"We love all our mares here at the Haven, but Iza was special. She was our queen," Mirabito said. "Sure, she was 33 years old but up until a few weeks ago, you would have never known it. I am devastated."
A 1976 foal by Bicker out of Countess Market, Iza Valentine earned nearly $66,000 from 25 starts.
Her greatest achievements were earned through her offspring. She was the dam of grade I winner Fran’s Valentine (by Saros), who earned more than $1.3 million and won six graded stakes including the 1985 Kentucky Oaks (gr. I). Iza Valentine also produced California sire and grade II winner Iz A Saros (by Saros) and stakes winner Carsonality (by Carson City). She is the granddam of With Anticipation.
Iza Valentine came to Our Mim Retirement Haven November 2004 with a group of mares from Gaines-Gentry. The group included Taba, My Turbulent Miss, Exactly So, and Jamra. George Waggoner donated Jamra.
The Haven is supported through donations is currently holding a building fund drive to complete renovations to its main barn and fencing.
