from the USTA Communications Department
Columbus, OH — Athens Blue Chip, 25, the dam of Athena Blue Chip p,4,1:50.3 ($457,118), Melina Mercouri p,4,1:51.1z ($234,174), Seafood Lover p,4,1:53.3f ($138,294) and Sampras Blue Chip p,1:52.4f ($122,739), died on Feb. 22, 2012.
Athens Blue Chip’s 12 foals produced over a million dollars, led by the aforementioned Athena Blue Chip, Melina Mercouri and Seafood Lover, all by Goalie Jeff.
“Even though the task of getting another Goalie Jeff-Athens Blue Chip mating failed, we loved this mare so much,” said her owner, Jeff Bridgford, in an e-mail. “She was the sweetest mare to be around and would let you do anything to her or for her. She will be forever remembered here and across the racing world for the pupils she gave us and for her kindness. I would like to thank Blue Chip Farms of New York for the pride they took in their operation over the years and for the opportunity to purchase this fine mare in the fall of 2005.”
She will be buried on Jeff and Glennys Bridgford’s Farm in Aledo, Ill.