Here you’ll meet Patton, a grade 3 winning horse, and Sarava, the biggest long shot to ever win the Belmont. You can feed carrots to famous faces such as Mixed Pleasure, Commentator and Dan the Bluegrass Man. You’ll even find Silver Charm on the property, although not exactly the Derby winner, but a miniature adult horse who is a star in his own right. Not all of these beautiful animals are old, but for whatever reason all are horses who no longer have the capability of earning. Some of the horses were found in need, and others were given to Old Friends by owners who want them to have a good home. A few come with endowments, and are given to Old Friends in order to boost their power to care for other horses. A famous horse, like Gulch or Sarava, attracts visitors and helps to pay for the care of several horses. “People are spending millions of dollars trying to get a horse that can win the Belmont and I’ve already got one,” jokes Blowen.
Verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, Old Friends is not just a pleasant place to spend an afternoon enjoying Kentucky farmland and some famous Thoroughbreds. It’s providing a safe haven and much needed compassionate care to beloved athletes who can no longer earn a living. In a piece written for a special issue of the Daily Racing Form, Blowen sums it perfectly, writing, “I wish everyone could experience the pure joy that these retired Thoroughbreds provide every day.” Experience Old Friends for yourself: Tours are offered at Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, daily at 10 am, 1 pm and 3 pm with a reservation. Call the office at 502-863-1775 to make your reservation or visit Old Friends online at www.oldfriendsequine.org/.
The expense of caring for so many retired Thoroughbreds can not be overlooked. Old Friends is thankful to have much of their veterinary costs donated in kind. The support team includes a multitude of volunteers who help by giving tours, working in the office and organizing fundraising events. “This is a magnet for really nice people,” says Blowen. “Look at our volunteers. We couldn’t do anything without them.” Several fundraising events each year help offset the cost of caring for over 140 Thoroughbreds, including an annual party held the Sunday after the Kentucky Derby. Just as generous as the volunteers and donors is the love poured out by over 20 thousand visitors each year who come from all over the world. www.kentuckyhomesandgardens.com
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