Breeders’ Cup Week Available Tours October 5, 2022 The best Thoroughbreds, jockeys, owners and trainers are descending on Keeneland Racecourse this fall for the 2022 Breeders’ Cup World Championships! The event is set to take place on Nov. 4 & 5 with 14 championship races, the ultimate year-end event for Thoroughbred Horse Racing. We are so excited to celebrate the world championships of Thoroughbred horse racing with a week packed-full of experiences at some of the best breeding, training and racing operations in the world. Tours are available at over a dozen locations throughout Horse Country during Breeders’ Cup Week! Public and private tours are available, including unique experiences exclusive to Breeders’ Cup Week 2022. These tours are going fast, and we recommend purchasing your tickets soon if you are interested in visiting! See past champions and meet the next generation of racehorses during the week that celebrates the breeding and racing industry. Please note that all unique experiences, those tours with ‘Breeders’ Cup’ in the name, are fully non-refundable. Current public tour availability is listed below, and is subject to change. Availability as of Oct. 5, 2022. Blackwood Stables Visit Blackwood Stables | Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 2, 4 & 5 at 9am Denali Stud Visit Denali Stud | Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 2, & 3 at various timesSerena’s Song Meet & Greet | Nov. 1 at 11am Godolphin at Jonabell Farm Visit Jonabell Farm Stallion Complex Walking Tour | Nov. 1 at 10am Hallway Feeds Visit Hallway Feeds | Oct. 31 & Nov. 3 at 10:30am and 1:30pm Keeneland Keeneland Breeders’ Cup Experience | Oct. 30, 31, Nov. 1, 2 & 3 at 8am Lane’s End Farm Lane’s End Farm Breeders’ Cup Shuttle Experience | Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 2 & 3 at various times Mill Ridge Farm Visit Mill Ridge Farm, Breeders’ Cup Week 2022 | Oct. 30, 31, Nov. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7 at various timesMill Ridge Farm Breeders’ Cup Experience | Nov. 1 at 10:30am New Vocations Visit New Vocations | Nov. 2 at 2pm Runnymede Farm Visit Runnymede Farm | Nov. 5 at 10am and 2pm & Nov. 6 at 2pm Spendthrift Farm Breeders’ Cup Champion Stallion Tour | Oct. 31, Nov. 1 & 2 at 2pmFuture of Breeders’ Cup Shuttle Tour | Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 2 & 6 at 11:30am Three Chimneys Farm Visit Three Chimneys | Oct. 29, 30, 31 & Nov. 1 at 10am WinStar Farm Extended Shuttle Tour of WinStar Farm | Oct. 29 at 10:30am Visit WinStar Farm | Oct. 31 & Nov. 1 at 11:30am Private tours are also available for request at Darby Dan Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, New Vocations, Runnymede Farm and WinStar Farm. Click here for a listing of all tours available during Breeders’ Cup Week 2022. Looking for more information on things to do in Lexington during Breeders’ Cup week? Visit the Breeders’ Cup festival website for more details. Be sure to check out the Breeders’ Cup website for more information on tickets, the races and past champions.
Keeneland Fall Meet Preview October 5, 2022 The Keeneland fall meet gets started this Friday, October 7th in Lexington, Kentucky! The fall meet runs from Oct. 7 to Oct. 29th, leading up to the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, being held the first weekend of November. Racing is held each week on Wednesdays – Sundays. Tickets must be purchased prior to arriving at the track, and they can be found here. Keeneland’s fall meet is known as one of the most prestigious race meets in North America, and this year is shaping up to be no exception. The fall stakes schedule includes 22 stakes races and nine Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series races. We’re proud to offer tours throughout the Keeneland meet (and the rest of the year!), which can be found by clicking here. During the fall meet, Horse Country is offering five different experiences at Keeneland, including the Road to the Breeders’ Cup Experience – which is a unique, behind the scenes look at the Breeders’ Cup World Championships from the perspective of the host track. Be sure to tune into the races – or even better, join in the fun at the track! The stakes schedule can be found below. While you’re in town for the races, be sure to check out our Horse Country Itineraries, including the Guide to Fall in Horse Country. Need to brush up on your racing terminology? Check out Keeneland’s glossary of racing terms here. Friday, Oct. 7 G1 Darley Alcibiades $500,000 purse for two year old fillies, run at 1 1/16 miles on the dirt. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies.G2 JPMorgan Chase Jessamine $350,000 purse for two year old fillies, run at 1 1/16 miles on the turf. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf.G2 Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix$350,000 purse for three year olds and up, run at 6 furlongs on the dirt. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint. Saturday, Oct. 8 G1 Coolmore Turf Mile $1 million purse for three year olds and up, run at one mile on the turf. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Mile.G1 First Lady $750,000 purse for fillies and mares, three year olds and up, run at one mile on the turf. G1 Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity $600,000 purse for two year olds, run at 1 1/16 miles on the dirt. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile.G2 Thoroughbred Club of America$350,000 purse for fillies and mares, three year olds and up, run at 6 furlongs on the dirt. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint. G2 Woodford$350,000 purse for three year olds and up, run at 5.5 furlongs on the turf. Sunday, Oct. 9 G1 Juddmonte Spinster$600,000 purse for fillies and mares, three year olds and up, run at 9 furlongs on the dirt. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff.G2 Castle & Key Bourbon$350,000 purse for two year olds, run at 1 1/16 miles on the turf. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf.Indian Summer $250,000 purse for two year olds, run at 5.5 furlongs on the turf. ‘Win and You’re In’ qualifying race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint. Friday, Oct. 14 G3 Sycamore$300,000 purse for three year olds and up, run at 1 ½ miles on the turf. Saturday, Oct. 15 G1 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup$600,000 purse for three year old fillies, run at 1 1/8 miles on the turf. Sunday, Oct. 16 G3 Franklin$300,000 purse for fillies and mares, three years old and up, run at 5.5 furlongs on the turf. Saturday, Oct. 22 G2 Lexus Raven Run $350,000 purse for three year old fillies, run at 7 furlongs on the dirt. Perryville$350,000 purse for three year olds, run at 7 furlongs on the dirt. Sunday, Oct. 23 G3 Rood & Riddle Dowager$300,000 purse for fillies and mares, three year olds and up, run at 1 ½ miles on the turf. Friday, Oct. 28 G3 Rubicon Valley View$300,000 purse for three year old fillies, run at 1 1/16 miles on the turf. Myrtlewood$200,000 purse for two year old fillies, run at 6 furlongs. Saturday, Oct. 29 G2 Hagyard Fayette$350,000 purse for three year olds and up, run at 9 furlongs on the dirt. G3 Bryan Station $300,000 purse for three year olds, run at 1 mile on the turf.Bowman Mill $200,000 purse for two year olds, run at 6 furlongs on the dirt.
Fall Guide to Horse Country October 5, 2022 Fall is the perfect time to experience the best that the Bluegrass has to offer! Check out our Guide to Fall in Horse Country for suggestions on some of our must-see activities in Central Kentucky during the autumn months. Visit a horse farmCome enjoy the crisp fall air and brightly colored leaves on a tour of one of Kentucky’s famed horse farms! Our tour experiences are a great way for fans of all interest and experience levels to get a behind the scenes look at why Kentucky is known as the Horse Capital of the World. Depending on your tour choice, you might pet and/or feed horses, learn about the training process, see Kentucky Derby winning stallions and more. A number of farms and facilities are offering tours during the fall, including stallion and nursery farms, aftercare facilities, training operations and other equine care facilities. For the most up-to-date availability, please click here and utilize the filters located in the left hand corner. Go racing at KeenelandKeeneland Racecourse is home to two of the most prestigious race meets in the world, along with a prominent Thoroughbred auction house. The Keeneland fall meet kicks off on Friday, October 7th and runs through October 29th. Races are hosted during the week from Wednesday – Sunday, gates open at 11 am and post time is 1:05 pm. Head out to the races to see elite Thoroughbreds, place a few win bets and be sure to try some Keeneland Bread Pudding! Tickets are required for race days, and can be purchased here. Looking for a unique raceday experience? Be sure to check out the Keeneland Owners Experience. Along with its fall meet, Keeneland is hosting the Breeders’ Cup World Championships on November 4th and 5th. The Breeders’ Cup brings together the best of the best Thoroughbred racehorses in 13 championship races. Learn more and purchase tickets here.Watch Thoroughbreds train at KeenelandEvery day, horses take to the track at Keeneland to exercise. Visitors may see horses jogging, galloping or breezing on the main track as they work on their fitness prior to their next race. Keeneland morning workouts are open to the general public, but are made even more special with a tour! Get a behind the scenes look at Keeneland on one of their tours, including the Morning Works Tour, Backstretch Tour and Road to the Breeders’ Cup tour. We recommend stopping by the track kitchen after workouts for a hearty breakfast – you can’t go wrong with the baked apples! Enjoy the day at an orchard or pumpkin patch Central Kentucky is home to a number of agri-tourism locations that provide a great opportunity to pick your own apples, pumpkins and other fall favorites! Sip on some cider, enjoy a delicious baked good and pick the perfect jack-o-lantern at one of the many orchards in the area. Some of our local favorites include: Evans Orchard (Georgetown), Eckert’s Orchard (Versailles) and Stepping Stone Farm (Paris). Experience the fall scenery on a hike Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors here in the Bluegrass! Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington is home to 700+ acres of natural scenery, not too far from downtown Lexington. There are ten miles of trails at the park, and it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and see views of the Kentucky River Palisades area. Just an hour away in Slade sits the Red River Gorge, a world-renowned natural landscape with hiking trails and gorgeous scenery. The area has views of arches, rock shelters and more ancient Kentucky landscapes, and we recommend taking a hike and visiting Natural Bridge State Park!
The Week Ahead in Horse Country September 19, 2022 From tours to events – there’s always something to do in Horse Country! Check out the available tours, as well as events and things to do in the area, for the week of Sept. 20 – Sept. 25. Upcoming Public Tours: Tuesday: Denali Stud, Keeneland, Lane’s End Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, WinStar Farm Wednesday: Denali Stud, Keeneland, Lane’s End Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, New Vocations, TRF at Chestnut Hall Thursday: Denali Stud, Gainsborough Farm, Jonabell Farm, Hallway Feeds, Keeneland, Lane’s End Farm, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Secretariat Center, Spendthrift Farm, TRF at Chestnut Hall, WinStar Farm Friday: Denali Stud, Gainsborough Farm, Jonabell Farm, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Hallway Feeds, Keeneland, Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, Lane’s End Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, Secretariat Center, Spendthrift Farm, Spy Coast Farm, TRF at Chestnut Hall Saturday: Gainsborough Farm, Jonabell Farm, Keeneland, Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, Lane’s End Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, Runnymede Farm, Spendthrift Farm, Spy Coast Farm, TRF at Chestnut Hall Sunday: Gainsborough Farm, Jonabell Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, Runnymede Farm, Spendthrift Farm, TRF at Chestnut Hall Horse Country Member Events: Keeneland September Yearling Sale | Lexington: the world’s largest yearling sale continues through Saturday, September 24th. The Keeneland Sales Pavilion is open to the public – just make sure you don’t wave or scratch your nose in the auction ring, or you might bid on a Thoroughbred yearling! The sale begins at 10 a.m. each day, and more information can be found here. Bluegrass, Brunch and Bubbles | Lexington: join the Secretariat Center for their annual charity brunch and silent auction this Saturday, September 24. This event pairs adoptable Thoroughbreds with a classic brunch & silent auction – all benefitting the Secretariat Center’s work to reschool and rehome retired racehorses. Purchase tickets and learn more here. Chestnut Hall Afternoon Tea | Prospect (near Louisville): Support the herd at TRF at Chestnut Hall and enjoy the timeless ritual of afternoon tea, served in China with a delicious selection of scones, tea sandwiches and a sumptuous display of sweets. Purchase tickets and learn more here. Things to do: Join the Kentucky Equine Education Project for a night of polo at Commonwealth Polo Club this Friday, September 23. This event will feature a VIP sponsor and viewing area, food trucks, a beer garden, educational kids activities, and meet and greet with the players and their polo ponies. Learn more and purchase tickets here. Go racing at Churchill Downs in Louisville! The home of the Kentucky Derby is currently hosting their Fall race meet, with races each Thursday – Sunday through Oct. 2. This Saturday, four stakes are on the card, including the G3 Dogwood Stakes. View the Fall meet race schedule and purchase tickets here. Bourbon tours are a great way to become well-versed about Kentucky’s native spirit and the history of this signature Kentucky industry. Whether you are a bourbon aficionado or a newbie who wants to learn more, these tours have a little something for everyone, and are located across the Commonwealth! Learn more about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and book your tour here.
Keeneland September Yearling Sale Begins September 12, 2022 Today kicks off the Keeneland September Yearling Sale – one of the most prestigious sales events in the Thoroughbred industry! Over 4,000 Thoroughbred yearlings are cataloged for the sale, which runs from Sept. 12 – 24. The Keeneland September Yearling Sale is an annual event that brings some of the biggest names in Thoroughbred breeding and racing from all around the world to Central Kentucky. Sales are the culmination of many years of work, from choosing a sire and dam, to breeding, raising and preparing the horse from the foaling barn to the sales ring. The sale is broken down into six ‘books’, or catalogs, which are separated by sale date and perceived value. Book 1 horses are typically those that are seen as premium sales prospects, and each subsequent book includes horses more suited for lower budgets. A number of factors go into appraising horses, including their pedigree, conformation, athletic ability and more, and the Keeneland sales team travels to farms to see these horses in the months leading up to the auction to assess their possible value. Each horse is then assigned a hip number which corresponds to the approximate date of their sale as well. Employees have worked to prepare these horses for the big stage by grooming, exercising and handling them daily for the past few months to ensure their manners and physique are at their best. Horses will arrive at Keeneland a few days prior to their scheduled day in the sales ring to be shown to potential buyers. Buyers will then analyze a horse’s pedigree and physical appearance before bidding. When it comes time for a yearling to head to the auction ring, the yearling, their handler, and an additional groom (or more than one!) will head to the ‘back ring’. The back ring gives buyers one last chance to view a horse as they are showcased prior to heading to the auction ring. Horses will be in the ring for just a few minutes at maximum, as they are bid on and hopefully sold. Once a horse is sold, it will head to its new home and prepare for the process of learning to be a racehorse! A bit overwhelmed with all of the sales terminology? Check out Keeneland’s September Yearling Sale Dictionary, or even better – take a Behind the Sales tour at Keeneland to see the action firsthand! The sale can be watched live here, starting at 1 p.m. ET on 9/12. The catalog can be viewed online here. A number of Horse Country members are involved in the sale as consignors, breeders, stallion owners and even sales host! We’re wishing the best to all participants, especially our members and the host of the sale, Keeneland.
Racing Recap: Weekend of August 27th August 31, 2022 While the summer is coming to a close, that just means that we are headed into the ultra-competitive fall racing season. The road to the Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland is top priority for a number of horses and their connections, and along the way lie a variety of top-level races. This past weekend was highlighted by Saratoga Racecourse’s Travers Stakes Day, which included six graded stakes races. Check out some of the #HorseCountryConnections below, and we’d like to send our congratulations to all involved with these horses! G1 Travers Stakes – Epicenter G1 Kentucky Derby and G1 Preakness Stakes runner-up Epicenter put in his claim for top three year old colt with a definitive victory in the G1 Travers Stakes. Known as the Midsummer Derby, the Travers Stakes bring together some of the best three-year-olds each year. Epicenter is a son of Not This Time, who stands at Taylor Made Farm. You can visit Taylor Made Farm, the home of Not This Time and his dam Miss Macy Sue! Click here to book your tour. G1 Personal Ensign Stakes – Malathaat Kentucky Oaks (2021) winner and Eclipse Champion Malathaat got back to her winning ways with a victory in the G1 Personal Ensign Stakes. This was the fourth G1 win for the filly, who is out of Stonestreet Farm’s Dreaming of Julia. She was bred by Stonestreet, and consigned by Denali Stud at the 2019 Keeneland September Yearling Sale for $1.05 million. You can visit the nursery division of both Stonestreet Farm and Denali Stud for a more in depth look at the process of raising Thoroughbreds and preparing them for the sales. You may even get to pet and feed some mares and foals when you visit! Click here to visit Stonestreet Farm, and click here to visit Denali Stud . G1 Forego Stakes – Cody’s Wish G1 Forego Stakes – Cody’s Wish, bred, raised and owned by Godolphin. Cody’s Wish is named after Cody Dorman, a racing fan who met the colt and his mother, G1 winner Dance Card, at Gainsborough Farm through the Make a Wish program. The colt notched his first G1 win in the Forego Stakes, defeating champion sprinter Jackie’s Warrior. You can visit Gainsborough Farm, and have the chance to see his dam Dance Card and his siblings! Book your tour here. G1 Allen Jerkens Stakes – Jack Christopher G1 Allen Jerkens Memorial – Jack Christopher Jack Christopher avenged his loss in the G1 Haskell Stakes one start back with a strong victory in the G1 Allen Jerkens Memorial, a top-rated sprint race for three year olds. The colt is a son of Munnings, who stands at Coolmore at Ashford Stud. You can visit Coolmore at Ashford Stud, the home of Munnings! Book your tour here. G2 Pat O’Brien Stakes – Laurel River On the West Coast, Del Mar racing hosted a great weekend of graded stakes as well. The G2 Pat O’ Brien Stakes went to the four year old colt Laurel River. A son of Spendthrift Farm’s stallion Into Mischief, Laurel River has earned a berth into the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile thanks to his win in the Pat O’ Brien Stakes. You can visit the Spendthrift Farm stallion complex, home of Into Mischief, on a tour of their farm! Click here to book your tour. Be sure to follow along with our #BitbyBitBlog as we follow the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series, as well as other big racing events throughout the rest of the year!
Breeders’ Cup Week Tours August 24, 2022 The best Thoroughbreds, jockeys, owners and trainers are descending on Keeneland Racecourse this fall for the 2022 Breeders’ Cup World Championships! The event is set to take place on Nov. 4 & 5 with 14 championship races, the ultimate year-end event for Thoroughbred Horse Racing. We are so excited to celebrate the world championships of Thoroughbred horse racing with a week packed-full of experiences at some of the best breeding, training and racing operations in the world. Stay tuned to our Bit by Bit Blog and social media channels as we follow along with the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series and commemorate the many connections to Breeders’ Cup here in Horse Country. Tours are available at over a dozen locations throughout Horse Country during Breeders’ Cup Week! Public and private tours are available, including unique experiences exclusive to Breeders’ Cup Week 2022. See past champions and meet the next generation of racehorses during the week that celebrates the breeding and racing industry. Please note that all unique experiences, those tours with ‘Breeders’ Cup’ in the name, are fully non-refundable. Click here for a listing of all tours available during Breeders’ Cup Week 2022. Looking for more information on things to do in Lexington during Breeders’ Cup week? Visit the Breeders’ Cup festival website for more details. Be sure to check out the Breeders’ Cup website for more information on tickets, the races and past champions.
Weekend Availability: July 15 – 17 July 14, 2022 There’s almost always something going on in Horse Country – and we would love to have you join one of our many horse farm and facility tours here in the Bluegrass! This list is updated twice a week with a list of public experiences, which are subject to availability. Click the tour name below to check availability and book your tour. Private experiences are available to be booked on a case by case basis at a number of Horse Country locations. Please click here for a listing of all private experiences. For questions on availability or assistance in booking your tour, please email [email protected] or call 859-963-1004. Friday, July 15 TRF at Chestnut Hall | 10 a.m. Retired thoroughbreds in historic Goshen, KY Denali Stud | 10 a.m. A family-owned and operated nursery Godolphin at Jonabell Farm | 10 a.m. Home of the Darley Stallions Gainsborough Farm | 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Shuttle tour featuring mares and foals Hallway Feeds | 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Visit the feed mill of champions Mill Ridge Farm | 10:30 a.m.. Mares, foals & stallion Oscar Performance Runnymede Farm | 10:45 a.m. One of Kentucky’s oldest horse farms Secretariat Center | 11 a.m. See thoroughbreds training for second careers Spendthrift Farm Shuttle Experience | 1 p.m. Meet the mares and foals of Spendthrift Stonestreet Farm | 1 p.m. One of the leading thoroughbred nurseries Kentucky Equine Adoption Center | 1:30 p.m. Kentucky’s only all-breed horse rescue Keeneland Backstretch | 3:30 p.m. Visit the stable area and more Saturday, July 16 Keeneland Morning Workouts | 9 a.m. Visit grounds rich in history and tradition TRF at Chestnut Hall | 10 a.m. Retired thoroughbreds in historic Goshen, KY Gainsborough Farm | 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Shuttle tour featuring mares and foals Taylor Made Farm | 11 a.m. See stallions, mares and foals Kentucky Equine Adoption Center | 1:30 p.m. Kentucky’s only all-breed horse rescue Sunday, July 17 TRF at Chestnut Hall | 10 a.m. Retired thoroughbreds in historic Goshen, KY Gainsborough Farm | 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Shuttle tour featuring mares and foals Gainsborough Farm | 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Shuttle tour featuring mares and foals Mill Ridge Farm | 10:30 & 3:30 p.m. Mares, foals & stallion Oscar Performance Runnymede Farm | 2 p.m. One of Kentucky’s oldest horse farms Spendthrift Farm | 2:30 p.m. Home of Kentucky Derby winner Authentic Keeneland Backstretch | 3:30 p.m. Visit the stable area and more
Fasig-Tipton July kicks off Yearling Sale Season July 13, 2022 The Fasig-Tipton July Selected Yearling Sale was held this week in Lexington, and served as the kickoff to the yearling sales season in North America. A boutique sale, with around 300 entries in one day, the Fasig-Tipton July Sale featured exciting yearlings by first crop sires along with some of the most popular stallions in the country. Seven Horse Country members had consignments, and ten members had stallions that were represented with yearlings. Farms that have consignments at these sales work with the yearlings for months in advance to get them prepared for the sale. Yearling prep, as it is known in the racing industry, involves daily exercise to keep the fitness levels up and build muscle tone, handling the horses to ensure they are easy to work with and grooming to ensure that the horses look great for potential buyers! Once horses arrive at the sale grounds, they will be shown to potential buyers who view the horses as they are walking and examine their conformation to determine if they are interested in purchasing the horse. Along with viewing the ‘physical’ of the horse, buyers will analyze their pedigree and the race records of their maternal and paternal families. The following Horse Country members offered consignments at the Fasig-Tipton July Sale. Airdrie Stud – 3 horses sold for a total of $280,000, including a $130,000 colt by Summer Front. Darby Dan – 4 horses sold for a total of $322,000, including a $160,000 colt by Copper Bullet. Denali Stud – 4 horses sold for a total of $770,000, including a $320,000 colt by Munnings. Gainesway Farm – 8 horses sold for a total of $2,035,000, including the sales-topping $600,000 colt by Curlin.Lane’s End Farm – 1 colt by Catholic Boy sold for a total of $10,000. Mill Ridge Farm – 1 colt by Practical Joke sold for a total of $20,000. Taylor Made Sales – 26 horses sold for a total of $2,833,000, including a $225,000 colt by Candy Ride. The Fasig-Tipton July Sale is the first time that yearlings by a number of new stallions have been available for public offering. These stallions entered stud in 2020, and currently stand at a Horse Country member farm. Audible (WinStar Farm) – nine yearlings sold for a total of $1,230,000. Catalina Cruiser (Lane’s End Farm) – five yearlings sold for a total of $385,000. Copper Bullet (Darby Dan Farm) – three yearlings sold for a total of $288,000. Enticed (Godolphin at Jonabell) – three yearlings sold for a total of $180,000. Flameaway (Darby Dan Farm) – five yearlings sold for a total of $427,000Maximus Mischief (Spendthrift Farm) – ten yearlings sold for a total of $700,000Mitole (Spendthrift Farm) – five yearlings sold for a total of $542,000Omaha Beach (Spendthrift Farm) – five yearlings sold for a total of $1,180,000Preservationist (Airdrie Stud) – one yearling sold for a total of $50,000Vino Rosso (Spendthrift Farm) – eleven yearlings sold for a total of $1,490,000 Row one, left to right: Hip 40 – filly by Enticed | Hip 39 – colt by Catalina Cruiser | Hip 59 – colt by Maximus Mischief, consigned by Taylor Made SalesRow two, left to right: Hip 61 – colt by Audible, consigned by Denali Stud | Hip 46 – colt by Vino Rosso | Hip 87 – filly by FlameawayRow three, left to right: Hip 11 – filly by Copper Bullet | Hip 70 – filly by Mitole | Hip 98 – colt by Omaha Beach For more information on Fasig-Tipton, please visit their website.
Real Rider Cup a Success for Thoroughbred Aftercare July 11, 2022 Over the weekend, members of the Thoroughbred racing industry competed in The Real Rider Cup at New Vocations in support of Thoroughbred aftercare, including some of our very own Horse Country members! The Real Rider Cup is a charity competition in which racing industry personalities pair up with retired Thoroughbred racehorses to compete in show jumping class. Their goal is to raise a minimum of $1,000 per rider to directly support the Fair Hill Thoroughbred Show, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program and the Retired Racehorse Project. The event brings together employees of breeding and racing operations, media professionals, trainers, jockeys, owners and more in support of Thoroughbred aftercare! The Real Rider Cup was first held in 2017, and went virtual for 2021 and 2022. This is the first year that the event will be held in two locations – Kentucky and Maryland. Thirty riders competed over the course of jumps, as both individuals and team, in Lexington, Kentucky at New Vocations’ Mereworth Farm. The riders wore silks of their choice – either their employers, sponsors or a connection to their horse on the racetrack! Airdrie Stud, Godolphin, Lane’s End Farm, Stonestreet Farm and WinStar Farm saw their silks donned for the event. Airdrie Stud was represented by Jocelyn Brooks, Director of Sales, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute was represented by Mary Sheerin, Marketing Manager, and Hallway Feeds was represented by Kara Knochelmann, Customer Service Specialist. Both Jocelyn and Mary also serve as the Horse Country tour guides for their respective locations! Jesslyn Woodall, sporting the WinStar Farm silks won the individual division, and Team Blood-Horse (Jesslyn Woodall, John Ennis and Lauren Gash) took home the victory in the team event. As of Saturday evening, the Lexington leg of the Real Rider Cup had raised over $90,000 for Thoroughbred aftercare! Congratulations to everyone involved, and we can’t wait to tune in for the Maryland leg later this year. For more information on the Real Rider Cup, please visit their website. Aidrie Stud’s Jocelyn Brooks aboard Perpetual Optimism, wearing the Airdrie Stud silks.Hagyard’s Mary Sheerin aboard Turk, wearing the Godolphin silks.Jesslyn Watson and Lead Player, wearing the WinStar Farm silks.Larkspur Carroll and Promise Me Freedom, wearing the Lane’s End Farm silks.Hallway Feed’s Kara Knochelmann and Rolli Coaster, wearing the Michael Ann Ewing Racing Stable silks.
Father’s Day in Horse Country June 15, 2022 Father’s Day is just around the corner – this Sunday, June 19th! If you’re still looking for some ways to spend the day, check out our list of available horse farm tours and suggestions for other ways to celebrate Pops! Horse Farm Tours We have a few different opportunities to visit a horse farm on Father’s Day, including tours at stud farms to see some of the famous fathers of the Thoroughbred Racing & Sport Horse industry! 10 a.m. – TRF at Chestnut Hall | Prospect | Meet retired thoroughbred at this sanctuary farm 10 a.m. – Gainsborough Farm | Versailles | Shuttle tour featuring mares and foals 10 a.m. – Jonabell Farm | Lexington | Home of the Darley Stallions 10:30 a.m. – Mill Ridge Farm | Lexington | Mares, foals & stallion Oscar Performance 10:30 a.m. – Spy Coast Farm | Lexington | Experience elite show jumping first hand 12:30 p.m. – Lane’s End Farm | Versailles | Experience this renowned stallion roster 12:30 p.m. – Spendthrift Farm | Lexington | Home of Kentucky Derby winner Authentic 2 p.m. – Runnymede Farm | Paris | One of Kentucky’s oldest horse farms 3:30 p.m. – Mill Ridge Farm | Lexington | Mares, foals & stallion Oscar Performance Grade One-winning Liam’s Map, one of the stallions at Lane’s End Farm in Versailles, Kentucky. Bourbon Tours Check out our friends at the Kentucky Distillers Association for a comprehensive list of the different bourbon-themed tours in Kentucky. Whether you are a bourbon enthusiast or not, these tours are a great way to learn more about one of Kentucky’s signature industries! Nearby distilleries to Horse Country locations include: Barrel House Distilling Company (Lexington), Bluegrass Distillers (Lexington), Castle & Key (Frankfort), Four Roses Distillery (Lawrenceburg), Hartfield & Co. (Paris), James E. Pepper Distillery (Lexington), Town Branch Distillery (Lexington), Wild Turkey Distillery (Lawrenceburg) and Woodford Reserve (Versailles). Town Branch Distillery is located in Lexington, Kentucky, just outside of downtown. Take a Hike Central Kentucky is the perfect place for folks who like to spend time outdoors! From easy trails to challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone. A few of our favorites include the Red River Gorge – in particular Natural Bridge (Slade), Shaker Village (Harrodsburg), Raven Run (Lexington), The Pinnacles (Berea) and the Kentucky River Palisades. Check out VisitLex for a great directory of all things outdoors to check out in the Lexington area. The view from atop the famed Natural Bridge in Red River Gorge, just an hour from Lexington in Slade, Kentucky. Gift Ideas Haven’t found the perfect gift yet? We’ve got some last minute equine and Kentucky-themed gift ideas for you! Horse Country Champion Sire Hoodie: For that main dad dude in your life, our navy blue Champion Sire sweatshirt. Plus – it’s on sale!Horse Country Member Hats: Perfect for a day at the lake, running to the store or just enjoying time outside. Keeneland Mercantile: located in Downtown Lexington, this shop is a great place for all sorts of Kentucky-themed products including leather goods, apparel and more. Be sure to check out our Summer Bucket List & Giveaway for more things to do and ways to stay involved with Horse Country. The Champion Sire hoodie, found on the Shop Horse Country online store.
June Newsletter June 10, 2022 Summertime is Here! Warm days, sunny skies and frolicking foals are abundant here in the Bluegrass this time of year – and so are Horse Country tours! We are currently offering an average of 70+ unique public tours each week, ranging from stud and nursery farms to vet clinics, a sport horse farm and more. There’s truly something for everyone! If you are unsure of what you’d like to book, the Horse Country team is here to help you out! We also offer private tours and large group experiences by request. Email us at [email protected] or visit the Book Your Tour tab if you have any questions about booking your tour. After your visit, be sure to tag us on social media using @VisitHorseCountry (Instagram), @VisitHorseCountry (Facebook) and @KYHorseCountry (Twitter), and use the hashtag #VisitHorseCountry for a chance to be featured on our social media channels or website. We would absolutely love to see what made your time here in Horse Country special. Cheers to the Bluegrass, y’all. We can’t wait to see you! New & Returning Tours Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is officially back on the tour schedule! We are so excited to welcome guests back to one of the oldest and largest private equine veterinary clinics in the world. Guests will experience this 110 acre state-of-the-art veterinary facility through an hour and a half long walking tour, and learn about the many facets of a fully functioning equine hospital. Tours are available each Wednesday at 11 am and Friday at 1 pm. Click here to book. Mill Ridge Farm has welcomed a new addition to their tour offerings – the Sunset Wagon Ride! This tour offers a unique experience aboard this open-air, tractor drawn wagon. Guests will see the stunning views of Mill Ridge Farm, stopping along the way to interact with mares, foals and yearlings. The Sunset Wagon Ride is available each Friday at 5 pm for a limited number of guests. Be sure to book your spot soon by clicking here! The Spendthrift Farm Shuttle Experience is available once again! Meet the mares and foals of historic Spendthrift Farm on this shuttle tour of their nursery division. Guests will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the mommas and babies – and maybe even feed some peppermints! Tours are available each Friday and Saturday at 2:30 pm. Book your tour by clicking here. Summer Bucket List Giveaway Summer is the perfect season to enjoy so much of what the Bluegrass state has to offer! While visiting a horse farm or facility is our favorite thing to do, there’s lots of great things to make your trip to Horse Country even more special! Guests who complete at least 5 of the 10 items on our Summer Bucket List and post a photo/video of themselves completing the activity on social media (be sure to tag Horse Country!) will receive a free Horse Country t-shirt. See below for the Summer Bucket List, and click here for a full list of terms and conditions. Check out our summer bucket list for some of our can’t miss activities, and be sure to tag us on social media (@VisitHorseCountry on Instagram and @KYHorseCountry on Twitter) when you check off any items. Belmont Stakes Connections The Belmont Stakes, also known as the Test of the Champion, will be run this Saturday! While there is no Triple Crown on the line, Kentucky Derby winner Rich Strike is set to return and faces a field of seven other horses. Many of these horses have connections to Horse Country, and we are even home to some retired Belmont Stakes winners! Check out our Bit by Bit blog here to learn more. Constitution, the sire of Belmont Stakes runner We The People, at WinStar Farm.Photo by Linzay Marks. Featured Member Runnymede Farm in Paris, Kentucky. Calling all history buffs + foal fanatics! Runnymede Farm is oldest continuously operated Thoroughbred farm in the state of Kentucky, and is well known for their history and success in raising horses. Founded in 1867 by Colonel Ezekiel Clay, whose father was a member of the United States Congress and a breeder of Thoroughbreds and champion cattle, Runnymede has grown in its 150 years of operation but still holds true its commitment to quality. Learn more about Runnymede Farm here. Visit the foals of Runnymede Farm in Paris, Kentucky on their nursery tour by clicking here!
Belmont Stakes Winners in Horse Country June 8, 2022 Spring is a time for big dreams here in the Bluegrass. Foaling season is in full swing, and with every new foal born comes the hope that they are the next superstar on and off the racetrack. Each foal has the potential to become the next great equine athlete, and that hope drives the breeding and racing industry. The Triple Crown brings to light these hopes and dreams unlike anything else in Thoroughbred horse racing, a chance to become one of the few horses to win the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes and have their name etched in the history books. The final leg of the Triple Crown, the G1 Belmont Stakes, is set to be contested this Saturday, June 11 at Belmont Park just outside of New York City. Horse Country is home to some of the top racehorses before, during and after their racing careers, including nine of the past twelve winners of the G1 Belmont Stakes. Learn more about these winners who now call Horse Country member locations home! 2021 – Essential Quality After landing just out of the money at the 2021 Kentucky Derby, Essential Quality went on to beat Hot Rod Charlie by one length in the 2021 Belmont Stakes. Essential Quality is owned by Horse Country member Godolphin. Members who visited Jonabell Farm (now the Godolphin mares and foals live at Gainsborough Farm) in 2018 more than likely saw Essential Quality as a foal! Essential Quality now stands at Jonabell Farm, and you can learn more and book a tour here. 2020 – Tiz the Law In 2020, the order of the Triple Crown races was changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic – the Triple Crown started with the Belmont Stakes followed by the Kentucky Derby and finished with the Preakness Stakes. The order change caused the Belmont Stakes to be shortened to 1 ⅛ miles instead of the regular 1 ½ miles. Tiz the Law rolled home in the 2020 Belmont Stakes by over one length. Tiz the Law now stands stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Versailles, Kentucky. Learn more and book a tour of Coolmore at Ashford Stud here. 2018 – Justify Just a few years off of the Triple Crown triumph of American Pharoah, the undefeated Justify followed in the hoofprints of his future stablemate in becoming the 13th Triple Crown winner. Owned by Horse Country member WinStar Farm in partnership with China Horse Club, Head of Plains Partners LLC and Starlight Racing, Justify strode to a single length victory under jockey Mike Smith. Justify now stands stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Versailles, Kentucky. Learn more and book a tour of Coolmore at Ashford Stud here. 2017 – Tapwrit Tapwrit entered the 2017 Belmont Stakes with 5-1 odds, second favorite behind Irish War Cry. Tapwrit stayed in the middle for a majority of the race, gradually closing in on Irish War Cry, going on to win the race by two lengths. Tapwrit currently is standing at stud at Gainesway. To learn more and book your tour click here. 2015 – American Pharoah American Pharoah entered the Belmont Stakes off of impressive victories in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. His victory in the Belmont Stakes crowned him the 12th Triple Crown winner and the first one in 37 years. American Pharoah now stands stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Versailles, Kentucky. Learn more and book a tour of Coolmore at Ashford Stud here. 2014 – Tonalist Tonalist made waves with his Belmont Stakes win after surpassing the favored California Chrome, who was attempting to win the Triple Crown. Prior to running in the Belmont, Tonalist won the Peter Pan Stakes in May of 2014, making him the first horse since A.P. Indy in 1992 to win the Peter Pan and Belmont Stakes double. Tonalist is currently standing at Lane’s End Farm. Learn more about Lane’s End and book a tour here. 2013 – Palice Malice Palace Malice was eager to redeem himself after being overtaken in the Kentucky Derby to finish 12th. In the Belmont, Jockey Mike Smith went on to keep his colt behind the leaders for a majority of the race, before passing them on the final stretch and winning by three and a quarter lengths. Palice Malice now stands at Three Chimneys Farm in Versailles, Kentucky. Learn more and book a tour here. 2012 – Union Rags After a rough start in the Kentucky Derby, trainer Michael Matz set his sights on the Belmont Stakes for his colt Union Rags. Union Rags won by a neck after a battle for first with Paynter in the final strides of the race. Union Rags currently stands at Lane’s End Farm. Learn more and book a tour here. 2010 – Drosselmeyer Drosselmeyer entered into the Belmont Stakes at 13-1 odds and a new jockey, Mike Smith. When the race was underway Smith kept Drosselmeyer on the outside of the pack and a few lengths back to conserve his energy for the home stretch. This was the right call as they passed the favorites for the race, Ice Box and First Dude, to win the race by 1 ¾ lengths. Drosselmeyer stands at Winstar Farm beside his father Distorted Humor. Learn more and book a tour here.
The Horse Country Summer Bucket List Giveaway June 8, 2022 Announcing the Horse Country Summer Bucket List & Giveaway! One of the best parts about our slice of paradise here in Kentucky is that there is so much to do along with horse farm tours. We encourage all guests to check out the local communities that our members call home, and our Summer Bucket List is a great way to keep track of some fun things to check out while you are here in the Bluegrass. Guests who complete at least five items from our summer bucket list and post about those items will receive a Horse Country t-shirt! See below for all terms and conditions for the contest. Feel free to download the list, or check out the written list below. SUMMER BUCKET LIST See a Kentucky Derby winnerFeed a horse a treatCheck out scenic Old Frankfort Pike Eat a locally-owned restaurant Take a photo in front of a horse-themed mural Take a selfie with a foal Enjoy a shuttle tour Visit an adoption facility or sanctuary Go shopping in a local downtown Watch morning training at Keeneland Be sure to stay tuned to our Bit by Bit blog for more information on things to do in the area relating to our Summer Bucket List. Even if you don’t complete the whole list, we would still love to see how you are spending your summertime in Horse Country, and hope that you will check out some of the activities we have suggested. See below for the terms & conditions for the giveaway. Guests who complete at least five of the ten items listed on our ‘Summer Bucket List’ graphic and submit photo proof are eligible to receive a piece of Horse Country apparel. Please submit proof by posting photos on social media of each bucket list item, tagging Horse Country and using the hashtag #VisitHorseCountry. For example, in the caption or comment of your post say ‘Enjoying my shuttle tour! #VisitHorseCountry @VisitHorseCountry”. Once you finish the Bucket List, email us at [email protected] and we will check your posts. If all items have been completed we will send a Horse Country t-shirt your way! Contest begins June 8th at 8am ET and ends on August 31 at 12:59pm ET. One entry will be accepted per guest. Please be safe and mindful of your surroundings when taking any photos, and follow the direction of your tour guide when applicable. All state and local laws apply. Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are in no way affiliated with this giveaway.This contest is hosted and solely affiliated with Horse Country.
Horse Country Connections: 2022 Belmont Stakes June 7, 2022 The final jewel of the Triple Crown is set to be contested just outside of New York City this weekend. The Belmont Stakes will be run at Belmont Park over a distance of 1 1/2th miles. Eight horses will head to post this Saturday, June 11 for their chance at the blanket of white carnations and the history books. Kentucky Derby winner Rich Strike returns to the races, five weeks after his shocking 80-1 upset on the First Saturday in May. He is set to face a handful of Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes runners, along with some newcomers to the Triple Crown series. Among the nine contenders is Kentucky Oaks runner-up Nest, the only filly to race in this year’s edition. Fillies have only won the Belmont Stakes three times; Ruthless in 1867, Tanya in 1905 and most recently, Rags to Riches in 2007. The field for the G1 Belmont Stakes has connections to several of our Horse Country members, and we will be rooting them on this weekend! Post time for the Belmont Stakes is approximately 6:45 p.m. ET, and the race and all pre-race coverage will be streamed live on NBC and the Peacock app. Airdrie Stud Creative Minister (post position #5) is by Airdrie Stud stallion Creative Cause. Coolmore at Ashford Stud Mo Donegal (post position #6) is by Coolmore stallion Uncle Mo. Keeneland We The People (post position #1), Skippylongstocking (post position #2), Nest (post position #3), Creative Minister (post position #5) and Mo Donegal (post position #6) were all sold at Keeneland as yearlings.We The People (post position #1), Golden Glider (post position #7) and Barber Road (post position #8) were sold at Keeneland as a weanling.Nest (post position #3) won the G1 Ashland Stakes at Keeneland this spring. Taylor Made Farm We The People (post position #1) was consigned by Taylor Made as a weanling at the Keeneland November Sale. WinStar Farm We The People (post position #1) is by WinStar Farm stallion Constitution, and is owned by WinStar Farm along with their partners CMNWLTH and Siena Farm. To learn more about the Belmont Stakes, check them out online here or on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Kentucky Horse Farm Tours to Check Out this Memorial Day Weekend May 26, 2022 School is out, summer is almost here and a long weekend is upon us – it’s the perfect time to check out some of Kentucky’s best local attractions! Horse farm tours are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and learn more about Kentucky’s signature industry. We’ve compiled a list of horse farm tours that are being offered in Horse Country during Memorial Day weekend (Friday, May 27 – Monday, May 30). Whether you are a lifelong horse fan or this will be your first time visiting a horse farm, we have an experience for you. Tours can book up quickly, so we recommend booking online or giving us a call if you are interested in joining one of our experiences. All tours listed below are available at the time this was published, but are subject to sell out. Be sure to check out our itineraries for ideas on locations to visit as well as things to do, eat and see in the area. For information on restaurants, lodging and other activities in the area, be sure to check out Visit Lex and Kentucky Tourism. Friday, May 27 Keeneland Morning Works Tour | Lexington | 9 a.m. Runnymede Farm Nursery Tour | Paris | 10 a.m. TRF at Chestnut Hall Sanctuary Tour | Prospect | 10 a.m. Jonabell Farm Stallion Complex Tour | Lexington | 10 a.m. Gainsborough Farm Nursery Tour | Versailles | 10 a.m. Denali Stud Nursery Tour | Paris | 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Mill Ridge Farm Nursery and Stallion Tour | Lexington | 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. WinStar Farm Extended Shuttle Tour | Versailles | 11:30 a.m. Spendthrift Farm Stallion Complex Tour | Lexington | 12:30 p.m. Stonestreet Farm Nursery Tour | Lexington | 1 p.m. Saturday, May 28 Keeneland Morning Works Tour | Lexington | 9 a.mTRF at Chestnut Hall Sanctuary Tour | Prospect | 10 a.m. Jonabell Farm Stallion Complex Tour | Lexington | 10 a.m. Runnymede Farm Nursery Tour | Paris | 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Gainsborough Farm Nursery Tour | Versailles | 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.Mill Ridge Farm Nursery and Stallion Tour | Lexington | 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.WinStar Farm Extended Shuttle Tour | Versailles | 11:30 a.m. Spendthrift Farm Stallion Complex Tour | Lexington | 12:30 p.m. Stonestreet Farm Nursery Tour | Lexington | 1 p.m. Sunday, May 29 TRF at Chestnut Hall Sanctuary Tour | Prospect | 10 a.m. Jonabell Farm Stallion Complex Tour | Lexington | 10 a.m. Spy Coast Farm Grand Tour | Lexington | 10:30 a.m. Spendthrift Farm Stallion Complex Tour | Lexington | 12:30 p.m.Runnymede Farm Nursery Tour | Paris | 2 p.m. Gainsborough Farm Nursery Tour | Versailles | 2 p.m. Mill Ridge Farm Nursery and Stallion Tour | Lexington | 3:30 p.m. Monday, May 30 Spy Coast Farm Grand Tour | Lexington | 10:30 a.m. We would love to see your #VisitHorseCountry experience! Tag us on Facebook and Instagram at @VisitHorseCountry and Twitter at @KYHorseCountry, and use the #VisitHorseCountry for a chance to be featured on our social media channels and website.
Preakness Stakes Winners in Horse Country May 18, 2022 Spring is a time for big dreams here in the Bluegrass. Foaling season is in full swing, and with every new foal born comes the hope that they are the next superstar on and off the racetrack. Each foal has the potential to become the next great equine athlete, and that hope drives the breeding and racing industry. The Triple Crown brings to light these hopes and dreams unlike anything else in Thoroughbred horse racing, a chance to become one of the few horses to win the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes and have their name etched in the history books. The second leg of the Triple Crown, the G1 Preakness Stakes, is set to be contested this Saturday, May 21 at Pimlico Racecourse in Baltimore, Maryland. While there will be no Triple Crown attempt this year, as Kentucky Derby winner Rich Strike is bypassing the Preakness Stakes, the hope of winning a single Triple Crown race is enough to draw some of the top three year olds in the country. Eight colts and one filly are entered in this year’s edition of the Preakness. Horse Country is home to some of the top racehorses before, during and after their racing careers, including five winners of the G1 Preakness Stakes. Learn more about these winners who now call Horse Country member locations home! 2018 Preakness Stakes – Justify Just a few years off of the Triple Crown triumph of American Pharoah, the undefeated Justify followed in the hoofprints of his future stablemate in becoming the 13th Triple Crown winner. Owned by Horse Country member WinStar Farm in partnership with China Horse Club, Head of Plains Partners LLC and Starlight Racing, Justify strode to a half-length victory under jockey Mike Smith. Justify now stands stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Versailles, Kentucky. Learn more and book a tour of Coolmore at Ashford Stud here. 2017 Preakness Stakes – Cloud Computing The 2017 edition of the Preakness Stakes did not result in a Triple Crown hope, but instead a thrilling stretch duel in the final furlong of the race. After sitting on the lead alongside Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming for a majority of the race, Classic Empire drew away in the stretch, only to be run down by Cloud Computing, who took the victory by a head in the final strides. Cloud Computing now stands stud at Spendthrift Farm in Lexington, Kentucky. Learn more and book a tour at Spendthrift Farm here. 2015 Preakness Stakes – American Pharoah American Pharoah entered the Preakness Stakes off of an impressive victory in the Kentucky Derby two weeks earlier, and just like all Kentucky Derby winners who contest the Preakness, he carried the hopes of a Triple Crown victory. A seven length victory in the Preakness Stakes set up American Pharoah for a much-awaited run in the Belmont Stakes three weeks later, in which he became the 12th Triple Crown winner and the first in 37 years. American Pharoah now stands stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Versailles, Kentucky. Learn more and book a tour of Coolmore at Ashford Stud here. 2009 Preakness Stakes – Rachel Alexandra This year, Kentucky Oaks winner Secret Oath will be the sole filly to run against the boys in the Preakness Stakes. 13 years ago, another Kentucky Oaks winner in Rachel Alexandra took on the colts and went wire to wire to win the second leg of the Triple Crown. She would go on to become one of the most famous racemares of all time – winning multiple grade one races including the G1 Woodward against older males as a three year old filly during her storied career. While Rachel Alexandra is not featured on tours, you can visit her place of residence, Stonestreet Farm and meet possible future champions like Rachel! Learn more and book a tour at Stonestreet Farm here. 2005 Preakness Stakes – Afleet Alex It is not often a horse can accomplish a victory in the way that Afleet Alex won the 2005 Preakness Stakes. Even though he placed third in the Kentucky Derby, Afleet Alex entered the Preakness as the favorite. While making a run from the back of the pack, Afleet Alex ran into traffic and fell to his knees at the top of the stretch. He and jockey Jeremy Rose recovered almost instantly, and ran away with the race to win by nearly five lengths. Rose and Afleet Alex would go on to win the Belmont Stakes three weeks later. Afleet Alex now resides at Gainesway Farm in Lexington, Kentucky where he has been pensioned, or retired, from stud duty. Learn more and book a tour at Gainesway Farm here.
Horse Country Connections: 2022 Preakness Stakes May 17, 2022 The middle jewel of the Triple Crown is set to be contested in Baltimore, Maryland this weekend. The Preakness Stakes, set two weeks after the Kentucky Derby, is run at Pimlico Racecourse over a distance of 1 3/16ths miles. Nine horses will head to post this Saturday, May 21 for their chance at the blanket of black-eyed susans and the history books. Though Rich Strike, winner of this year’s Kentucky Derby will not be running, there is a strong field set for the Preakness Stakes. Among the nine contenders is Kentucky Oaks winner Secret Oath, the only filly to race in this year’s edition. Fillies have won the middle jewel six times, including 2020 victor Swiss Skydiver and 2009 victor Rachel Alexandra. Kentucky Derby runner-up Epicenter looks to hit the wire first just two weeks after his 3/4 length loss in the Run for the Roses, and is joined by fourth-place Derby finisher Simplification. The field for the G1 Preakness Stakes has connections to several of our Horse Country members, and we will be rooting them on this weekend! Post time for the Preakness Stakes is approximately 6:45 p.m. ET, and the race and all pre-race coverage will be streamed live on NBC, NBCsports.com and the Peacock app. Airdrie Stud Creative Minister (post position #2) is by Airdrie Stud stallion Creative Cause. Gainesway Farm Fenwick (post position #3) was consigned/sold by Gainesway Farm as a yearling. Keeneland Armagnac (post position #7), Simplification (post position #1) and Skippylongstocking (post position #9) were all sold at Keeneland as yearlings. Lane’s End Farm Armagnac (post position #7) is by Lane’s End Farm stallion Quality Road. Taylor Made Farm Simplification (post position #1) is by Taylor Made Farm stallion Not This Time, and was consigned by Taylor Made Sales as a yearling. Epicenter (post position #8) is by Taylor Made Farm stallion Not This Time. Three Chimneys Farm Early Voting (post position #5) is by Three Chimneys Farm stallion Gun Runner, and was bred by Three Chimneys Farm. To learn more about the Preakness Stakes, check them out online here or on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event returns to normalcy May 2, 2022 One of the world’s premier equestrian competitions returned to full capacity this past weekend at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. The CCI5*-L Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event attracts some of the best horse and rider combinations in the sport of eventing, which combines the disciplines of dressage, cross country and stadium jumping into one competition. The event welcomed tens of thousands of fans this year after a two year spectator-hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Land Rover Kentucky was canceled in 2020, and the event was held without fans in 2021. Visitors were back in full force for the 2022 edition, with horse lovers from all around filling the stadium, cross country field and trade fair areas. This year, along with the CCI5*-L, the event hosted the inaugural CCI4*-S Lexington Three Day Event and a two-day show jumping competition. Over 100 horse and rider pairs competed throughout the weekend in the different events. This year also saw the return of three-time Olympic gold medallist Michael Jung, a three-time champion at the Kentucky Three Day Event who was making his first appearance since 2018. Representing Germany, Jung brought a horse new to the CCI5*-L level in FischerChipmunk FRH. Jung kicked off the competition with a stellar performance in the dressage ring, setting a CCI5*-L record low score of 20.1 penalties. After two days of dressage, he maintained a steady lead over Great Britain’s Sarah Bullimore and Corouet, 25.7 penalties, in second and USA’s Buck Davidson and Carlevo, 27.4 penalties, in third. Dressage is a discipline in which combinations perform a variety of movements as they are written in a set test. The test allows horse and rider pairs to demonstrate their grace on the flat, with an emphasis on suppleness, concentration and connection. After the quiet harmony of dressage, the combinations head outside of the arena for what is arguably the most popular discipline of the weekend – cross country. Cross country takes the connection and concentration displayed in dressage, and applies it on a jumping course of natural-looking, traditionally solid jumps. These jumps are similar to what horse and rider pairs would see while fox hunting or trail riding and include logs, ditches, water combinations and more. Cross country is often a game changer for the leaderboard, as participants can rack up penalty points for finishing over the time or having a refusal on course. Jung is known for his precision on the cross country course, and his ride on FischerChipmunk FRH was no different. The pair came home inside the time to keep their lead, ahead of popular American rider Boyd Martin and his gelding Tsetserleg TSF in second, and Great Britain’s Yasmin Ingham and her mount Banzai Du Loir in third. Top from left: Yasmin Ingham and Banzai Du Loir (GBR); Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH (GER); Megan O’ Donoghue and Palm Crescent (USA).Bottom from left: Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg TSF (USA); Phillip Dutton and Sea of Clouds (USA). For the final day of competition, the competitors ride in reverse order of standing on the stadium jumping course. Stadium jumping differs from cross country in that the jumps, unlike cross country obstacles, are easy to knock down. It’s not uncommon for horses to knock down rails in the stadium phase, emphasizing the need for endurance and a careful horse on the final day of competition. A few rails and time faults changed around the leaderboard prior to Michael Jung entering the ring, with just six total riders putting in a double clear out of thirty who contested the final round of competition. Coming into the final round in third place, Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg had a few unlucky rails to drop them out of the top three. Doug Payne and Quantum Leap advanced to third place, and as the highest placing American combination, took home the Land Rover/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Championship. Yasmin Ingham and Banzai Du Loir held on to second place with a score of 31.7 penalties, earning just .8 time penalties in the Rolex Stadium. Ingham earned the title of top young rider in just her third appearance at the CCI5*-L level. Jung entered the ring as the final combination to contest the course, with the ability to knock down two rails and still keep the top spot. Putting in a double clear round, he and FischerChipmunk FRH ended the weekend on a historic score of 20.1, the lowest CCI5*-L score in the history of the sport. Pippa Funnell of GBR celebrates a double clear round aboard Maybach to finish sixth. Doug Payne and Quantam Leap during the stadium jumping portion of the event. Yasmin Ingham of GBR celebrates placing second in the CCI5*-L Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event presented by Mars Equestrian aboard her mount Banzai Du Loir. Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH of Germany put in the winning round in the CCI5*-L Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event presented by Mars Equestrian. Michael Jung and FischerChipmunk FRH of Germany after winning the CCI5*-L Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event presented by Mars Equestrian. Courtney Carson, groom for rider Doug Payne, kisses Quantum Leap after his third place finish in the event. Payne and Quantum Leap were named Land Rover/USEF CCI5*-L Eventing National Champions at the event. “I had a really great feeling in the warm-up, and it makes you a bit more relaxed, but the pressure is on and it was like a test for (the world championships later this year),” said Jung. “So I tried to stay really concentrated and focused with this horse. He’s amazing … I was able to enjoy every phase through this competition.” Jung took home a year lease of a brand new Land Rover and a brand new Rolex watch, among other prizes, for his victory. Horse Country members were involved and connected to this signature event in a number of ways, including Hagyard Equine Medical Institute which served as a major sponsor, and the Secretariat Center and New Vocations who participated in demonstrations related to the versatility of off the track thoroughbreds. The 2023 Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event will be held April 27-30, 2023. For more information on the event, please click here.
Horse Country Connections: 2022 Kentucky Oaks April 28, 2022 Every year on the First Friday in May, the Kentucky Oaks brings together the best three year old fillies. The filly equivalent to the Kentucky Derby, the Kentucky Oaks is the culmination of years of planning and preparation for these horses and their connections. The winner of the Kentucky Oaks receives a blanket of pink lillies draped over their back as they head into the famed Churchill Downs’ winner’s circle. We are a little over a week away from the Kentucky Oaks, so we have put together a list of the contenders with #HorseCountryConnections! For many of the contenders this year, their journeys began in, have run through, or are connected to Horse Country. We are so excited for our members who have a connection to our industry’s signature race. This list is based off of the most recent update to the Road to the Kentucky Oaks leaderboard. The post position draw for the race will take place on Tuesday, May 3rd. Be sure to stay tuned to our social media channels for more updates ahead of the 2022 Kentucky Oaks. Airdrie Stud – Visit Airdrie Stud | Derby Week 2022 Kathleen O – sired by Airdrie stallion Upstart. Godolphin – Visit Jonabell Farm | Derby Week 2022 (stallions) & Visit Gainsborough Farm | Derby Week 2022 (mares and foals) Nostalgic – sired by Darley stallion Medaglia d’Oro and bred, raised and owned by Godolphin. Turnerloose – sired by Darley stallion Nyquist. Spendthrift Farm – Visit Spendthrift Farm | Derby Week 2022 Ain’t Easy – sired by Spendthrift stallion Into Mischief. Lane’s End Farm – Visit Lane’s End Farm | Derby Week 2022 Goddess of Fire – sired by Lane’s End stallion Mineshaft. Hidden Connection – sired by Lane’s End stallion Connect.Candy Raid – sired by Lane’s End stallion Candy Ride. Keeneland – Keeneland Morning Works Tour and Keeneland Backstretch Tour Kathleen O – sold at the 2019 Keeneland November Sale. Echo Zulu – sold at the 2020 September Yearling Sale. Nest – won the G1 Ashland Stakes at Keeneland in April, and was sold at the 2020 September Yearling Sale. Turnerloose – sold at the 2020 September Yearling Sale. Hidden Connection – sold at the 2020 September Yearling Sale.Cocktail Moments – placed second in the G1 Ashland Stakes at Keeneland in April, and was sold at Keeneland twice, during the 2019 November Sale and 2020 September Yearling Sale. Candy Raid – sold at the 2020 September Yearling Sale.Ain’t Easy – sold at the 2020 September Yearling Sale. Coolmore at Ashford Stud – Visit Coolmore at Ashford Stud* Desert Dawn – sired by Coolmore stallion Cupid. Cocktail Moments – sired by Coolmore stallion Uncle Mo. Shahama – sired by Coolmore stallion Munnings. Adare Manor – sired by Coolmore stallion Uncle Mo. Stonestreet Farm | Visit Stonestreet Farm* Candy Raid – bred by Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings LLC Gainesway Farm Kathleen O – co-bred by Gainesway Thoroughbreds Ltd. and Bridlewood Farm. Three Chimneys Farm Echo Zulu – sired by Three Chimneys stallion Gun Runner. Shotgun Hottie – sired by Three Chimneys stallion Gun Runner. Beguine – sired by Three Chimneys stallion Gun Runner. * denotes that tours are available outside of Kentucky Derby week. To learn more about the Kentucky Derby, check them out online here or on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Horse Country Connections: 2022 Kentucky Derby April 22, 2022 Every May, the Kentucky Derby brings the world’s attention to the Bluegrass state. Years of preparation comes down to two minutes for the three year old horses and their connections, all hoping to have a blanket of roses draped across their horse in the Churchill Downs winner’s circle. We are a little over two weeks away from the First Saturday in May, so we put together a list of the contenders with #HorseCountryConnections! For many of the contenders this year, their journeys began in, have run through, or are connected to Horse Country. We are so excited for our members who have a connection to our industry’s signature race. This list is based off of the most recent update to the Road to the Kentucky Derby leaderboard. The post position draw for the race will take place on Tuesday, May 3rd. Be sure to stay tuned to our social media channels for more updates ahead of the 2022 Kentucky Derby. Taylor Made Farm – Visit Taylor Made Farm | Derby Week 2022 Epicenter – sired by Taylor Made stallion Not This Time Simplification – sired by Taylor Made stallion Not This Time, and consigned by Taylor Made as a weanling. In Due Time – sired by Taylor Made stallion Not This Time. Airdrie Stud – Visit Airdrie Stud | Derby Week 2022 Zandon – sired by Airdrie stallion Upstart and bred by Airdrie Stud’s Brereton C. Jones.Summer is Tomorrow – sired by Airdrie stallion Summer Front and bred by Airdrie Stud’s Brereton C. Jones. Spendthrift Farm – Visit Spendthrift Farm | Derby Week 2022 White Abarrio – bred by Spendthrift Farm. Tiz the Bomb – sired by Spendthrift stallion Hit it a Bomb and bred by Spendthrift Farm. Lane’s End Farm – Visit Lane’s End Farm | Derby Week 2022 Ethereal Road – sired by Lane’s End stallion Quality Road. Keeneland – Keeneland Morning Works Tour and Keeneland Backstretch Tour Zandon – won the G1 Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland this month. Smile Happy – placed second in the G1 Blue Grass Stakes a Keeneland this month, and was sold at the 2019 Keeneland November Sale.Tiz the Bomb – won the G2 Bourbon Stakes at Keeneland last fall. Tawny Port – won the G3 Lexington Stakes at Keeneland this month, and was sold at the 2020 Keeneland September Yearling Sale.Barber Road – broke his maiden (won his first race) at Keeneland last fall, and was sold at the 2019 Keeneland November Sale.Summer is Tomorrow – sold at Keeneland twice, during the 2019 November Sale and 2020 September Yearling Sale. Coolmore at Ashford Stud – Visit Coolmore at Ashford Stud* Mo Donegal – sired by Coolmore stallion Uncle Mo. Zozos – sired by Coolmore stallion Munnings. Gainesway Farm Charge It – sired by Gainesway stallion Tapit. Happy Jack – damsire is Gainesway stallion Tapit. Three Chimneys Farm Taiba – sired by Three Chimneys stallion Gun Runner. Cyberknife – sired by Three Chimneys stallion Gun Runner. Early Voting – sired by Three Chimneys stallion Gun Runner. * denotes that tours are available outside of Kentucky Derby week. To learn more about the Kentucky Derby, check them out online here or on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Making the Most of Your Keeneland Visit April 5, 2022 Each year, springtime in Kentucky is unofficially marked by the beginning of Keeneland Racecourse’s Spring Meet. This year, the meet runs from April 8th to 29th every day aside from Mondays, Tuesdays and Easter Sunday. Whether you are traveling from within the Commonwealth or states away, we have a number of suggestions to make the most of your trip to Keeneland! Center Photo Courtesy of Coyle Photo/Keeneland Behind the Scenes Tours Have you ever wondered what a race day is like for racehorse owners? Or what a morning is like on the backstretch of a racetrack? Keeneland offers a variety of tours to give a behind the scenes peek into the lives of racehorses and their connections. Morning Workouts TourLearn more about the uniqueness of Keeneland on this tour that focuses on the racing and sales operations housed at this historic racetrack. Keeneland Owner’s Experience The ultimate experience for a racing fan, experience the races as if you are a racehorse owner – from the saddling paddock to the final stretch!Behind the Racing TourPeek into what a raceday is like for jockeys and thoroughbreds alike with an insider’s look at the Jockey’s Quarters, barn area, morning workouts and more. Backstretch Tour Catch a glimpse into the different activities that occur every day in the stable area, or backstretch, including race horses being bathed, walked, trained and more! The tour will also visit the main track, training track, Racing Office and Sales Pavilion. Where to Eat A trip to Keeneland isn’t complete without a visit to the Track Kitchen! Located on the backstretch near the stable area, this restaurant is open 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays, and 6 a.m. – 11 a.m. on weekends. Try some of the tasty, Southern-style cooking and who knows – you may even see some of the jockeys and trainers competing during the race meet! On race days at Keeneland, a cup of burgoo or bourbon bread pudding is always a good idea. If you’re looking for somewhere to eat before or after the races, check out this article from our friends at VisitLex. A few of our local favorites include Wallace Station, Ramsey’s Diner, Malone’s and Sedona Taphouse. Left to right: Godolphin at Jonabell Farm, Home of the Darley Stallions | Mill Ridge Farm | Hallway Feeds What to Do Learn more about the life cycle of the thoroughbred at one or more of these nearby Horse Country facilities that host tours in April. Learn more about each farm below, and view available tours. Mill Ridge Farm | NurseryGodolphin at Jonabell | Stud FarmHallway Feeds | Feed Mill WinStar Farm | Stud Farm and NurseryStonestreet Farm | NurseryThree Chimneys | Stud FarmLane’s End Farm | Stud Farm and Nursery Central Kentucky is home to a number of other exciting things to do including hiking, distillery tours and more. Travel Kentucky has a great database of things to do and see, found here. Some of our favorite things include checking out Lexington’s many murals, shopping at Greyline Station, visiting a distillery or taking a hike at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary. There are an endless number of ways to make your trip to Keeneland and Lexington fit the needs of your group, and we would love to see how you spend your time in Kentucky’s Horse Country. Tag us on Instagram and Facebook @visithorsecountry or Twitter @kyhorsecountry, and use the hashtag #VisitHorseCountry for a chance to be featured.
2021 Belmont- Horse Country Connections June 3, 2021 The Belmont Stakes, which kicked off in 1867, is the oldest of the Triple Crown events. This Saturday, June 5th, help us cheer on the connections, and horses, of Horse Country. This weekend’s field is comprised of 8 horses. 5 of which are sired by stallions living at Horse Country member locations. Rock Your World, top Belmont contender, winning the 2021 Santa Anita Derby. Credit: Benoit Photo via SpendthriftFarm.com Post 1 – Bourbonic: sired by Bernardini, who stands at Godolphin at Jonabell Post 2 – Essential Quality: owned, bred, and raised by Godolphin; sired by Tapit who stands at Gainesway Farm Post 3 – Rombauer: sired by Twirling Candy, who stands at Lane’s End Farm Post 4 – Hot Rod Charlie Post 5 – France Go de Ina: sired by Will Take Charge, who stands at Three Chimneys Post 6 – Known Agenda Post 7 – Rock Your World: sired by Candy Ride, who stands at Lane’s End Farm; Will be retiring to stud at Spendthrift at the end of racing career Post 8 – Overtook For more info about these runners, their race record and connections, check out America’s Best Racing. Who are you betting on? We wish the best of luck to all contenders and hope for a successful & safe ride.
American Farmland Trust May 27, 2021 This spring, we announced a strategic partnership between Horse Country and American Farmland Trust. American Farmland Trust’s mission is to save the land that sustains us by protecting farmland, promoting sound farming practices, and keeping farmers on the land. Consider this: Every day 2,000 acres of agricultural land are paved over, fragmented, or converted to uses that jeopardize farming.*Too many farms are still losing topsoil and discharging nutrients, polluting rivers and contributing to dead zones in coastal waters. And we are forgoing restorative work that could rebuild soil health and sequester carbon.In the next 15 years, one-third of America’s farmland and ranchland will likely change hands, as current landowners age and sell. The land is most at risk of being converted to a non-agricultural use when it is sold. Source: American Farmland Trust The recently announced partnership aligns AFT’s mission of farmland protection with the agritourism experiences offered through Horse Country and its members. American Farmland Trust President and CEO John Piotti visited with Mill Ridge Farm’s Price Bell in late 2019 to talk about how forward-thinking places like Lexington-Fayette County are leading the way in protecting farmland for the many positive benefits it brings to our families, communities, and environment. Catch that feature here. American Farmland Trust welcomes Horse Country guests and followers to a complimentary one-year digital membership. Sign-up for updates, breaking news, and action opportunities from AFT experts across the country. Sign Up Here
2021 Preakness – Horse Country Connections May 14, 2021 The field of 10 is set for Saturday’s Preakness Stakes at Pimlico. Horse Country connections dominate the field, with nine of the ten contenders sired by stallions standing at Horse Country stud farms. American Pharoah, shown here at Coolmore at Ashford Stud, sired Preakness contender RAM. Ram – sired by American Pharoah, who stands at Coolmore at Ashford Stud Keepmeinmind – sired by Laoban, who stands at WinStar Farm; fed by Hallway FeedsMedina Spirit – fed by Hallway FeedsCrowded Table – sired by More than Ready, who stands at WinStarMidnight Bourbon – sired by Tiznow, now pensioned at WinStar, out of Catch the Moon of Stonestreet Farm; bred by StonestreetRombauer – sired by Twirling Candy, who stands at Lane’s End FarmFrance Go de Ina – sired by Will Take Charge, who stands at Three ChimneysUnbridled Honor – sired by Honor Code, who stands at Lane’s End FarmRisk Taking – sired by Medaglia D’Oro, who stands at Godolphin at Jonabell Concert Tour – sired by Street Sense, who stands at Godolphin at Jonabell For more info about these runners, their race record and connections, check out America’s Best Racing Quick Sheet We wish the best of luck to all contenders and hope for a safe and thrilling ride for all!
