Versailles, KY (My Sportsbook) - Lawyer Ron, the 2007 champion older male thoroughbred, has been humanely destroyed because of complications following surgery. Stonewall Farm Stallion, where the stallion was living, made the announcement on Saturday.

The six-year-old was euthanized late Friday, July 10 due to problems from recent colic surgery.

"Not only was he a superior racehorse horse, but his physical presence and contagious personality captivated everyone that saw him," said Clark Shepherd, manager of Stonewall Farm Stallions. "His first foals are tremendous. When breeders call in to report their Lawyer Ron foals being born, they all have a story to tell. This is obviously a huge loss for us, as well as for the racing and breeding community."

Lawyer Ron, who was in his second season at stud, was a major Kentucky Derby contender in 2006. That year he won the Risen Star, Southwest and Rebel Stakes before capturing the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park.

In the 132nd Run for the Roses won by Barbaro, Lawyer Ron finished 12th in the 20 horse field. He was ridden by John McKee and was the sixth choice at 10-1.

As a four-year-old in 2007, Lawyer Ron won the Oaklawn, Whitney and Woodward Handicaps. He was bred and owned by James T. Hines, Jr., until Hines died in an accidental drowning in his home swimming pool in February, 2006. A percentage of the horse was sold to Stonewall Farm in May, 2006.

Early in his career Lawyer Ron was trained by Bob Holthus. Todd Pletcher became his trainer in October, 2006, and he was also ridden by John Velazquez.

Lawyer Ron finished his racing career with 12 wins in 26 races and earnings of $2,790,008.