Trainer Bob Baffert gives $50,000 to Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Home

GEORGETOWN, Ky. (WTVQ)- Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert and his wife Jill are giving $50,000 to Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Home in Georgetown.

The announcement comes after Baffert’s American Pharoah won the Belmont Stakes, becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years. The Bafferts reportedly pledged $50,000 each to 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 reportedly visited the farm just before this year’s Kentucky Derby. Old Friends says 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."