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| Staff Writer |
Stepping into the serene embrace of Old Friends Equine, visitors are immediately captivated by the tranquillity that pervades the air. Here, retired Thoroughbred horses rediscover the simple joy of being ordinary horses with extraordinary legacies, liberated from the rigours and pressures of competitive racing. Michael Blowen, the visionary founder of Old Friends Equine, greets all with a warm smile and eyes brimming with profound affection for these magnificent creatures.
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Michael Blowen regales visitors with tales of the remarkable Thoroughbreds that have graced his farm. Among these illustrious residents are some of the most iconic names in racing history.
At 30YO, Silver Charm, the venerable Thoroughbred, is a testament to the glory of past racing triumphs and the enduring spirit of champions. Known for his victories in both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, Silver Charm’s legacy is further immortalised by his narrow loss in the Belmont Stakes, where he finished just half a length behind Touch Gold. Now, both esteemed competitors share a peaceful retirement as neighbours, their fierce rivalry having given way to a serene camaraderie.
“He is the oldest living winner of the Preakness and Derby. That was his victory in 1997.
And the next year, he continued and triumphed in the Dubai World Cup against Swain. And we also happened to have Swain here,” Blowen shared.
Into Overdrive, the US Racing Hall of Fame inductee at Saratoga, shares the hallowed grounds with Silver Charm. Alongside them is Lava Man, another Hall of Famer renowned for his three consecutive wins in the Hollywood Gold Cup.
“Lava Man was a legendary racehorse and a long-time fighter.
He may have won considerably more than US$50,000, but that's what I believe they received for him,” he added.
Among the equine residents is a striking 5YO filly named Bold and Bossy, once known for her daring highway escapades whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Her story, marked by dramatic episodes and incredible resilience, has become a testament to her indomitable spirit.
“This lovely filly, who turned five recently, is with us. Bold and Bossy is her name. A few years back, while she was racing, they put her in the Ellis Park gate. She took offence at her first race, tossing the jockey to the ground before taking off and jumping over the fence to run along the highway before the Outrider could reach her.
“Finally, she was captured. After they returned and placed her in the receiving barn, the receiving barn caught fire that evening, severely burning her.
After being returned to the track, where she had won a race , her trainer, Michael Ewing, told me that Bold and Bossy was here because he wanted to retire her since the burn scars were making her anxious,” Michael recalls.
"Other Derby winners have come through here, including Medina Spirit, Charismatic, War Emblem (deceased) and I’ll Have Another. I could go on forever about the incredible horses we've had the good fortune to possess here," he remarked.
"I just thank my lucky stars every day for this wonderful thing that has happened to me—I started with US$3,500 and started claiming horses up in Suffolk Downs, and now I'm surrounded by all these amazing ones."
But it's not just the champions that have made an impact – horses like Private Charm, Silver Charm's 15YO daughter, who didn't win any races, are also welcome.
"A few horses that might not find a suitable home elsewhere will also come to us," Blowen said.
The farm has also welcomed Channel Maker, a Canadian-bred who earned almost US$4 million on the racetrack and is set to be inducted into the Canadian Hall of Fame.
Other notable residents include Game On Dude, trained by Bob Baffert and a three-time winner of the Santa Anita Handicap, and Little Mike, a Breeders' Cup Turf winner.
Blowen credits the farm's success to its dedicated team of caretakers, who work tirelessly to provide exceptional care for each horse.
"We have a fantastic team and individuals operating this business who are far more knowledgeable than I am," he said. "And they're performing admirably."
One of the most important aspects of the farm is giving the horses the freedom to choose their own path.
"They've been told what to do their entire lives – go here, go there, get in the stall, get out of the stall," Blowen explained.
"When they come here, it's going to be exactly the opposite. So, they have to tell us what they want and when they want it."
Blowen shares a remarkable story about Prince Ahmed bin Salaman’s War Emblem, a stallion known for his aggressive behaviour.
After three years of working with him, Blowen was finally able to ride him with a halter on. "He was the most unusual case we've ever had here," he said.
As each horse finds its new home at Old Friends Equine, Blowen emphasises the importance of understanding their unique personalities and needs.
"They all have different personalities," he said. "They're all amazing athletes...you have to learn what they want. And they do get their own way here – we're all working for them."
Michael’s ardour for Thoroughbred horses, which inspired the creation of a unique Living History Museum for these retired equine athletes, took root two decades ago.
Back then, Blowen penned movie reviews for the Boston Globe and spent his mornings at the racecourse, ostensibly to understand the sport better.
However, what began as mere research swiftly transformed into a profound love for the horses themselves. He became captivated by their distinctive personalities, intricate complexities, and innate grace, which sparked his enduring passion.
"I just began to really admire them for so much more than just circling around on a sunny day," he said.
"I began to notice their different personalities, how unique they were from one another, how fascinating and complex they were, and how comfortable most of them were."
As Blowen spent more time with the horses, he became acutely aware of the challenges they faced in their post-racing lives.
"They were disposable as soon as they ran out of money," he noted.
"I didn't think it was quite right, either. All their lives, these horses have given us a lot of effort. We wouldn't exist without them since they are the foundation of those farms. And the idea that they would simply throw them away at the end of the day doesn't seem entirely right."
This realisation ignited a vision in Blowen's mind: to establish a sanctuary where retired Thoroughbreds could spend their days in comfort and serenity.
"I thought it was pretty smart," he said. "And everything is going well so far."
After relocating to Kentucky with his wife, Blowen took on the role of Operations Director for the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, eventually founding Old Friends Equine. Though he lacked a formal finance background, he faced the challenge with a remarkable blend of faith and curiosity. To his delight, the endeavour not only survived but thrived.
What Michael has crafted transcends a mere sanctuary for retired racehorses; he has woven a rich tapestry of compassion and inspiration within the space destined to endure for generations. With a heart full of pride, he looks to the future, knowing that his legacy will serve as a beacon for those who come after him.
"I suppose I get a lot of credit for creating this place," Blowen mused with a touch of humility.
"And I suppose that's true because once you start something, you don't know where it's going to take you. The artist does not create the art; the art creates the artist."
His smile revealed the profound truth behind his words, acknowledging that Old Friends Equine has been as transformative for him as it has been for the horses.
As the farm has grown and flourished, Blowen has embraced invaluable lessons from his equine companions. "Observing the horses has taught me to relax," he reflected. "It's taught me to take it easy and helped me deal with many issues."
Old Friends Equine has become a haven not only for horses but also for all who visit.
Horse enthusiasts, former jockeys, owners, trainers, and admirers of these noble creatures come together, finding solace and inspiration in the farm’s serene beauty.
"We get nice thank you notes saying this was the experience named as the best tourist attraction in Kentucky," Blowen beamed, pride evident in his eyes.
The farm’s influence stretches far beyond its pastures, touching the hearts of those who come and leave with newfound perspectives.
"People come and they take away whatever they take away from it," Blowen said. "They take away things that haven't even occurred to me."
In the end, Old Friends Equine stands as a testament to a beautiful truth: creation is a dance where the art shapes the artist.
Here, amidst the gentle rhythms of hoofprints and heartbeats, Blowen’s vision blooms into a masterpiece with a legacy that will last.
Yet, reaching this pinnacle was no easy feat. As a sanctuary for retired Thoroughbred horses, Old Friends Equine confronted its fair share of financial obstacles. Dependent on generous donations, the farm navigated myriad challenges to secure its enduring sustainability.
“We’ve been traditionally dependent on donations,” Blowen says.
“We accept every horse without conditions, lifting the financial burden from previous owners. They simply deliver the horse to us; there’s no adoption fee or further costs. Once the horses arrive, we take on full responsibility.”
This model is not only commercially sound but also serves the horses' best interests, offering them a worry-free retirement. Key supporters like Godolphin and Darley have been instrumental, generously contributing to the farm’s mission.
"We also receive donations from many fans who contribute to our cause," Blowen adds.
"Those who pay for tours also donate, and we're grateful for their support. The horses and fans are the foundation of this farm."
The farm has been blessed with occasional major donors whose timely contributions have been a lifeline. Jerry Moss, the A&M Records founder, and actress Angie Dickinson are two such devoted patrons.
"We're grateful for these wonderful supporters who have provided us with substantial assistance," Blowen says.
"They've made a huge difference in our ability to care for these incredible animals."
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The remarkable stories don’t end here. For Michael Blowen, the true enchantment of Old Friends Equine’s tours lies in the dramatic narratives of the horses themselves. From tales of racing triumphs to remarkable rescues, these stories captivate visitors, many of whom are experiencing the world of horses for the very first time.
Take Taylor Special, a 1980s Kentucky Derby star found wandering in the woods. Though in rough shape, Taylor Special flourished at the farm, forging deep connections with visitors.
One, a former Bill Maher employee who spent a year and a half with him, was moved to tears upon learning of Taylor Special’s passing. "He dropped to his knees and just started to cry," Blowen recalls. "He adored him."
Each tour at Old Friends Equine is a unique “playlist” of horse stories and visitor interactions. Blowen thrives on the energy of the guests and their experiences, never growing bored as he immerses himself in each day’s new cast of characters.
The farm serves as a serene escape from daily life, a place where differences fade away and everyone unites in admiration for these magnificent animals.
“It’s like a little oasis where people come together,” Blowen says.
Blowen finds constant inspiration in the farm’s evolving story, learning something new nearly every day. For him, the tours are a way to connect with people and share the incredible tales of the horses.
The excitement is palpable as Michael Blowen welcomes the newest additions to his beloved family of retired Thoroughbred horses.
One of the latest arrivals is Alpha, a striking chestnut stallion with a storied racing career, including a thrilling dead-heat win in the Traverse Stakes at Saratoga.
With the generous support of his former owner, Sheikh Mohammed, Alpha has found a new home at Old Friends Equine, where he will spend his golden years in comfort and relaxation.
“Sheikh Mohammed was in Brazil at the time, but he kindly arranged for Alpha's return to the United States and retirement at Old Friends Equine,” Blowen gushes.
In addition to Alpha, another new arrival is Warriors Reward, who is expected to arrive at the farm this weekend.
With the breeding season now behind them, the farm is expecting several more stallions to join their ranks in the coming weeks. For Blowen, it's all part of the natural cycle of life, where new beginnings bring joy and excitement to the farm.
As he looks out at his beloved horses, he can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to provide a safe haven for these magnificent creatures and for the chance to share their stories with the world.
"It's never dull," Blowen says excitedly. "It's part of the cycle of life."
All this success would not have been possible without the generous contributions of many kind-hearted supporters, and Michael yearns for the chance to reunite with them. Amidst the serene company of retired Thoroughbreds, Michael Blowen eagerly awaits the return of old friends who have left indelible marks on his life.
One such cherished companion is actress Angie Dickinson, a devoted patron of the farm. As Blowen fondly reminisces about their past visits, he looks forward with great anticipation to the day she will again grace Old Friends Equine with her presence.
Even in the absence of dear friends like Dickinson and the late Burt Bacharach, Blowen finds solace in his life's work and draws inspiration from new connections and experiences.
Reflecting on his life, Michael Blowen has come to see old age not as a burden but as a celebration. His memoir, tentatively titled The Final Furlong, epitomises the power of perseverance and the wisdom gained with experience.
“I’m working on kind of a memoir of all this, and I’m calling it The Final Furlong because the final furlong is the most exciting part of a race. Everything matters when you’re coming down the stretch, and you can see the finish line up ahead.
“You’d better get it done before the finish line, because after the finish line, nothing matters to you anymore.”
“I used to think old age was a terrible thing, but now I think it’s the best part of life.”
“I think it’s very interesting. There’s a book that just came out by the American journalist Mo Rocca called Roctogenarians:Late in Life Debuts, Comebacks, and Triumphs. It’s all about old people doing interesting things, and he even did a chapter on me, which was really nice.
“The book is all about older people doing things that aren’t expected of them,” Michael remarked.
From the enthralling stories in Roctogenarians to the exuberant joy of reuniting with old friends, Michael Blowen’s life serves as a brilliant testament to the beauty of savouring every moment.
Driven by an unyielding passion for horses, Blowen’s journey with Old Friends Equine is a profound illustration of empathy and a radiant beacon for all who admire the grace of Thoroughbreds.
At Old Friends Equine, visitors from all walks of life come to experience something far beyond the white fences. They leave with renewed perspectives, a deep sense of gratitude, and a reverent appreciation for these magnificent creatures. The impact of their visit reverberates far and wide, as the experience fosters a true understanding of compassion and a newfound appreciation for every relationship—both with horses and with all living beings.