Despite recent rain and snow events, which hampered additional festivities, Old Friends' CEO and president John Nicholson along with founder Michael Blowen welcomed the volunteer team to celebrate and acknowledge the momentous occasion as their equine superstar Silver Charm turned 32 years old Feb. 22.
Birthday cakes (human and horse) and a hearty rendition of "Happy Birthday" were part of the festivities, along with plenty of pats and selfies for the oldest living Kentucky Derby (G1) winner, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007.
"Silver Charm is feeling good, bouncing around his stall this week," said Blowen. "He has done well through the snow, ice, and rain."
Silver Charm won the hearts of many who now are lifelong fans. The marquee attraction at Old Friends, with thousands of fans annually visiting the champion, Silver Charm is Old Friends' top fundraiser due to his popularity and longevity.
While Blowen enjoys visiting all of the retirees at Old Friends, he always shares that Silver Charm is his favorite. Silver Charm resides in a paddock only a few steps from Blowen's back door. "He is the Crumb King and makes the best of only having four teeth. He gives me a kiss every day," said Blowen, who chuckled, "Of course, that's while I'm holding his Mrs. Pastures crumbs and I have his attention."
