I love the new Breyer ponies—particularly the new Fjord. I have two western saddles to make for her and decided to make my own tree. I still have some traditional trees, but they’re too big. Plus I do like challenges. I looked at numerous photos of western trees on horses and went to work.
I was excited to see the residents of Old Friends, but Lava Man was probably the horse I was most excited for.
I never followed his racing career—I took notice of him afterwards. Being a gelding, his racing career didn’t hinder on what he could do in the breeding shed. So after beginning his racing career in 2003, he raced his last one in 2009 after 47 starts. I enjoyed reading about his second career as a stable pony.
On the Thursday morning of Breyerfest, Mackenzie and I made the very short trek to tour Old Friends. I’d last gone in 2016.
Old Friends provides a dignified retirement to Thoroughbreds whose racing and breeding careers have come to an end. By promoting these once celebrated horses through a campaign of education and tourism, our goal is to raise awareness of the importance of equine aftercare.
Old Friends, Who We Are
It’s one of those tours that you can attend numerous times. It’s the final spot for horses of varying fame—where they see adoring fans and receive lots of attention for the remainder of their lives.
After watching the video about Old Friends, our first stop was the cemetery.
Horses that love kids are worth their weight in gold. They’re patient and careful, happy to stand still and be loved on.
One of those horses participated in day one of Saddle Up Harrisburg.
All about keeping horses at home
Hand-painted, one-of-a-kind, artist-quality dolls for children and collectors alike.
Write Your Story
Tack, Props and Miniatures by Nichelle
Kristian Beverly 