New Jersey-bred GSW Joey P (Close Up) was euthanized at Old Friends Monday after succumbing to complications from a respiratory illness at the age of 23, the farm announced via release.
A frequent face in the black-type ranks his entire career, Joey P won the GIII Jersey Shore Breeders' Cup Stakes at Monmouth Park as a 3-year-old and was even given a shot at the GI Haskell Invitational Handicap. While it was not to be, the gelding visited the winner's enclosure 18 times in his career and retired in 2011 as a 9-year-old with a 48-18-10-1 record. His earnings tallied just over $1.08-million.
He was sent to Old Friends in 2018 courtesy of Second Call Thoroughbred Adoption and Placement, who supported him monthly throughout his retirement.
“Joey P was a wonderful example of the star-power of 'regional' racehorses,” said John Nicholson, president and CEO of Old Friends. “Joey P built his racing resume as the hero of New Jersey's Monmouth Park. His specialty at the track was running fast and he excelled at it, earning a following of devoted fans who adored him.”
“Joey P's specialty at Old Friends was making friends who all fell in love with him. He is going to be missed, especially by his paddock-mate, Tuneintobow. We are so grateful to Lori Lane of Second Call Thoroughbred Adoption and Placement for giving us the honor of caring for Joey P in his retirement.”
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