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Calvin Borel, weather make for a great day at Old Friends
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Calvin Borel autographs memorabilia for fans at Old Friends
Photo courtesy Yetta Feltner
Calvin Borel, the most popular jockey in American racing at the moment, was a very special guest Tuesday at Old Friends, a retirement haven for ex-racehorses in Georgetown, KY. The nationally renowned facility hosted “Calvin Borel Day” as a fundraiser for its nearly fifty stallions, geldings, and mares in residence. About two hundred visitors came out for the afternoon, some of whom traveled for hours to see the two-time Kentucky Derby-winning jockey and spend time at the idyllic farm.
The autograph line Photo courtesy Yetta Feltner
As the event began, Borel spoke with local media. He was primarily asked about his dream season this year, the highlights of which have included a shocking Derby victory aboard Mine That Bird, and six breathtaking stakes triumphs with superfilly Rachel Alexandra. In addition to the Derby win, Borel took the Preakness with the filly, who was the first female in 85 years to win that classic race.
Following the interviews, the jockey engaged fans and graciously posed for photos. He was affable and kind to everyone he met, and truly seemed delighted to be there. It was impossible not to notice how appreciative Borel is of the fans and of all he has accomplished in his career, and how unpretentious he remains.
Most of the attendees were local, including Triple Crown-winning jockey Jean Cruguet. But a few had come from places such as Detroit and St. Louis, both six hours away. Karen Dardzinski, who drove from Michigan on Monday morning, decided on the spur of the moment to come down. “I was there the day (Borel) won on Mine That Bird (in the Derby) and also on Rachel (in the Kentucky Oaks), and I just like him,” she said. “I think he’s a down-to-earth kind of guy, and I like to see people like that win.”
Robert Gross of St. Charles, Missouri, all but risked his life to make the trip. He wanted to see his friend Cruguet in addition to Borel, but suffered chest pains on Sunday and wound up in the hospital. After tests there and an evaluation by his family doctor, Gross hit the road and drove through Monday night to arrive in Lexington for the event—feeling fine. Of Borel, Gross said, “He doesn’t get the credit he deserves…I personally think he’s one of the better jockeys, and he’s finally getting what he deserves.”
The atmosphere was exceedingly pleasant. Those in attendance enjoyed each other’s, and the horses’, company, and the tranquility of the farm. The weather was even generous—clouds and a strong breeze kept the air very comfortable. The cooler conditions and adoring crowd brought out good vibes from the horses, too. Flick and Danthebluegrassman, in a paddock directly behind the barn by which the festivities took place, put on a show for the fans, romping around joyfully.
When Calvin Borel finally waved good-bye to the visitors and the crowd thinned out, Blowen reflected on the event. Very pleased with the outcome, he said that about twice as many guests had come out as had been anticipated. He was also impressed with Borel’s attitude and accommodating nature. “Racing needs ambassadors like this that are kind to the fans, and enjoy themselves and appreciate and value what these animals have done for them,” he said.
And Borel was a perfect ambassador for racing on this perfect summer day.
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- Alex Brown Racing
- Kentucky Equine Humane Center
- New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program
- Off the Track Thoroughbred Rescue
- Old Friends
- Our Mims Retirement Haven
- ReRun, Inc.
- South Jersey Thoroughbred Rescue
- Southern California Thoroughbred Rescue
- TB Friends Horse Rescue
- Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation
- Tranquility Farm
