GEORGETOWN, Ky. — Touch Gold, the 1997 Belmont Stakes winner, was euthanized Thursday because of old age at Old Friends, the Thoroughbred retirement facility. Touch Gold was 31 and had been at Old Friends since 2015.

“Saying farewell to Touch Gold is really hard for everyone at Old Friends. This tough old racehorse has been a special part of our life for many years. It was clear that he loved his life at Old Friends and enjoyed all the attention he received. Touch Gold was one of the best in a great era for our sport. We will miss him every day,” said John Nicholson, President and CEO of Old Friends.

Touch Gold never ran the Kentucky Derby, but he finished fourth in the Preakness Stakes. He was big news at the 1997 Belmont Stakes when he spoiled Silver Charm’s chance at a Triple Crown, b

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