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American Pharoah Trainer Bob Baffert Makes Charitable Donation to Old Friends

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Old Friends Press Release
Trainer Bob Baffert and his son, Bode, visit with Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Silver Charm at Old Friends. (Photo by Tim Wilson)

GEORGETOWN, KY – JUNE 8, 2015 – Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Georgetown, KY, will be the recipient of a $50,000 donation from Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert and his wife, Jill.

Baffert’s American Pharoah swept the coveted Triple Crown–the first in 37 years–when he won the Belmont Stakes on June 6.

Immediately following the horse’s victory the Bafferts pledged a $50,000 donation each to four charitable organizations: Old Friends, The Permanently Disabled Jockey Fund, The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and CARMAcares.

Old Friends is the retirement home of three of Baffert’s former trainees: Derby contender Danthebluegrassman, multiple grade 1 winning fan favorite Game On Dude and 1997 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Silver Charm.

Baffert visited Old Friends just prior to this year’s Kentucky Derby where he saw Silver Charm for the first time in more than a decade.

“I want to share this, I want to make sure that those horses that we really love–we have to take care of them,” Baffert said following American Pharoah’s Belmont victory. “Win, lose, or draw, I was going to do it.”

“We are so grateful to Bob and Jill for this wonderful gift,” said Michael Blowen, president and founder of Old Friends. “The thrill and excitement of the first Triple Crown in 37 years would have been enough, but their generosity is unsurpassed, as is their love and dedication to the horses.” Blowen added.

“Everyone at Old Friends wishes to congratulate Bob and Jill and American Pharoah’s owners the Zayat family on their historic victory, and for sharing their wonderful horse with all of his fans.”

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