Grade 1 Winner, Former Stallion Forbidden Apple Dies

Grade 1 winner and former stallion Forbidden Apple died at age 30 June 16, according to the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. Over the last 12 years, Forbidden Apple spent his retirement alongside other former racehorses under the care of TRF Second Chances at Lowell near Ocala, Fla. "Forbidden Apple, affectionately known as 'Apple,' quickly became a favorite among Second Chances Program students and staff," the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation said in a press release. "His gentle demeanor, playful nature, and deep love for treats and grooming brushes made him both a teacher and a companion to all who knew him." A son of 1981 Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness (G1) winner Pleasant Colony, Forbidden Apple was a successful homebred for owner Arthur Appleton. Racing from 1998-2003, Forbidden Apple recorded eight wins in 31 starts under the direction of trainer Christophe Clement, most notably taking the $400,000 Manhattan Handicap (G1T) at Belmont Park in the summer of 2001. Forbidden Apple raced in three consecutive editions of the Breeders' Cup Mile (G1T), running seventh in 2000, second in 2001, and fourth in 2002. Forbidden Apple continued to race until early 2003, notching his final win in October 2001 in the Kelso Handicap (G2T) at Belmont Park. After being retired from racing with earnings of more than $1.6 million, Forbidden Apple went to stud in Florida at Bridlewood Farm, then owned by Appleton. Forbidden Apple sired graded stakes winner Worstcasescenario and stakes-placed Forbidden Bear. From 2012-22, the New York Racing Association held a grass stakes named in Forbidden Apple's honor.