Bimelech (KY)

Biography

Undefeated as a 2-year-old, Bimelech won the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes in 1940 and went on to enjoy a successful career as a stallion.

Bred at Idle Hour Stock Farm by owner Col. Edward R. Bradley, Bimelech was the final colt sired by the notable stallion Black Toney. Bimelech was out of the great mare La Troienne and was a full brother to the outstanding filly Black Helen.

Bimelech broke his maiden in his career debut at Suffolk Downs in 1939 and added an allowance victory at Empire City before winning four consecutive stakes to stamp himself as the top 2-year-old colt of his class. He won the Saratoga Special, Hopeful Stakes, Belmont Futurity, and Pimlico Futurity to complete an undefeated juvenile campaign.

As a 3-year-old, Bimelech extended his win streak to eight with victories in the Blue Grass Stakes and Derby Trial leading up to the 1940 Kentucky Derby. Bimelech, however, finished 1½ lengths behind 35-1 longshot Gallahadion in one of the biggest Kentucky Derby upsets.

Bimelech rebounded to win the Preakness Stakes, defeating Gallahadion in the process. He added a victory in the Belmont Stakes before a foot injury ended his campaign.

As a 4-year-old, Bimelech raced twice, winning once, and suffered his only off-the-board performance of his career. He did not deal well with loading into the new starting gates, prompting Bradley to retire him.

Bimelech finished his career with a record of 11-2-1 from 15 starts and earnings of $248,745. He went on to sire 30 stakes winners and was the broodmare sire of 50 stakes winners. Bimelech died in 1966 at the age of 29 at Greentree Stud near Lexington, Kentucky.

Achievements

Triple Crown Highlights

Won the Preakness Stakes — 1940
Won the Belmont Stakes — 1940