Thoroughbred horse racing is an important industry in New York. The third jewel of the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes, is held at Elmont's Belmont Park. Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs is one of the most beautiful tracks in the country. The Saratoga summer meets attract tens of thousands of spectators each year. When these majestic horses' careers are finished, many of them end up in new careers. Some end up completely retired at retirement farms. One such retirement farm is Old Friends at Cabin Creek in Greenfield Center. It's open for visitors and is a great place to see old friends and make new ones!
Old Friends has a larger division in Kentucky, but the one that we will be focusing on is the newer farm in New York. The farm regularly holds tours in which you can interact with the horses there and get to know their personalities.
The beautiful farm serves as a retirement home for Thoroughbreds that are no longer able to compete or are too old to be used for breeding.
One of the farm's most famous residents was Zippy Chippy (left; pictured with his best friend Red Down South). Amazingly, Zippy Chippy never won a race despite heading to the post 100 times!
Editor's note: Sadly, Zippy Chippy passed away in 2022.
The horses love visitors and it's so much fun to see them enjoying life! Old Friends is Saratoga County's only horse retirement farm.
In his racing career, Watchem Smokey earned over $500,000! He now lives a life of luxury greeting new friends at Old Friends at Cabin Creek.
Commentator was born in New York and is now a permanent resident. He won the Belmont Stakes in 2008 and also captured the prestigious Whitney Handicap.
Who's your favorite of the horses at Old Friends?
Whether you are a fan of horse racing, or just love animals, this is one farm tour that's definitely worth taking! You can find out more about taking a tour of Old Friends at Cabin Creek and also lots more information on their residents at their website.
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