Old Friends to Open Satellite at KY Downs
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Old Friends retirement farm near Georgetown, Ky. has announced a partnership with Kentucky Downs to establish a satellite facility at the Kentucky racetrack.
The horse exhibit, "Old Friends at Kentucky Downs," is expected to launch in May 2015 at the Franklin track and will be open to the public for the summer season. The exhibit will showcase 10 retired racehorses, including those with a history of running at Kentucky Downs, via public tours coordinated by the Simpson County Tourism Commission. In addition, an adjoining visitor's center and an Old Friends gift shop will be housed in a newly renovated structure in the track's stable area.
The joint venture is expected to help raise awareness of retired racehorses and the need for Thoroughbred aftercare, to increase tourism, and to promote local attractions in Simpson County, according to a release.
"This is going to be great for these retired athletes," said Old Friends founder and president Michael Blowen. "This exhibit will offer the fans a way to maintain emotional ties to the horses and it will also offer a way to celebrate the history of horse racing in their community."
"It's an honor to work with Michael Blowen and Old Friends," said Kentucky Downs president Corey Johnsen. "Michael's unbridled enthusiasm for this important cause is contagious, and he has set the tone for responsible racehorse retirement.
"The situation at Kentucky Downs is a 'win-win' situation. We can provide a good home for these wonderful athletes while Old Friends provides the expertise. Ultimately, Kentucky Downs and Simpson County get a great tourist attraction that highlights the state's signature horse industry."