Because of his red hair, he was often called "Red", but when he grew to over 16 hands, his nickname was changed to "Big Red".

Nine eulogies were delivered during the service, which was broadcast nationwide by radio. Flags were lowered to half-mast at racetracks across the country, and at Churchill Downs a 7,500-person crowd stood in silent tribute as "Taps" was played in the great horse's honor.

He brought international recognition to Kentucky breeders and made the United States the racing center of the world.

He produced multiple Belmont Stakes champions, including American Flag (1925), Crusader (1926), and War Admiral (1937).