Silver Charm – photo © Rick Capone.

The torrential rains over the past few weeks finally are giving way to sunshine and warmer temperatures. The good news is that the grass is greener than ever and all the retirees are having a ball. Last Tuesday, jockey Gary Stevens, along with his wife Angie and daughter Maddie, had a wonderful reunion with Silver Charm – Gary’s favorite horse. They really appreciate what these great athletes have done to improve all of our lives. The reunion was shot by a crew from NBC and will be part of their Derby coverage so everyone can see how much it meant to Gary. Once again, thanks to Mr. Matsuda, the JBBA, Beverly and Jeff Lewis and Sandy Hatfield at Three Chimneys Farm for allowing us to care for my favorite racehorse.

Thanks to Lovely Maria, winner of the Ashland Stakes for Larry Jones, Kerwin Clark and one of our best friends, Brereton C. Jones. A few days before the race, Brereton called and told me that if she won the Ashland, he would donate $20,000 to Old Friends. The check arrived this week.

Game On Dude has thrown me over for his new paddock pal, Yankee Fourtune. He would always come when I called and energetically devour a handful or two of carrots and a Jolly Rancher candy. Now, I’m like the ex-wife. I’m sure Dude is really looking forward to seeing Bob and Jill and Bode Baffert in the coming weeks.

The spring has also brought new and old friends to the farm to see our new and old retirees. Thanks to all of them and to all of our supporters whose generosity helped get us through this tough winter. I wish everyone could visit and see how your donations are directly reflected in the health of the horses.

The You and I hat!

Another gorgeous and original hand crafted chapeau by Sally Steinmann of MAGGIE MAE DESIGNS®. Sally’s hard work and generosity has raised over $24,000 for our horses! Auction ends April 11th 8PM EST.

The seventh hat up for bid in our auction series honors the Florida-bred multiple graded stakes winner, You and I. You and I is perhaps best remembered for his 1995 Metropolitan Handicap (Grade 1) victory. He is also the sire of millionaire filly, You. This nearly jet black son of Kris S. went on to sire 14 other stakes winners who earned a total of $12 million.

As always, many many thanks to Shea and Julien for their support!

A very special thank you goes to Matt and Wendy Wooley of Equisport Photos for their photo shoots and videos. Thank you as well to Bella Rose Clothing Boutique, Lexington, Kentucky for furnishing the stunning dresses for the photo shoots.

Old Friends, 1841 Paynes Depot Rd., Georgetown, KY 40324
502-863-1775
www.oldfriendsequine.org
michael@oldfriendsequine.org