Looking Ahead to 2019! January 4, 2019 1. New Touring Location! This year, we get to welcome our guests to Fasig-Tipton, North America’s oldest thoroughbred auction company, as they offer their first ever tours starting in 2019! 2. Top Chef in the Blue Grass! Bravo’s Top Chef newest season takes place right here in central Kentucky! Denali and Runnymede were even filming locations! That’s right, those running horses in the opening credits are Horse Country residents! We are excited to host all of the Top Chef fans that come to visit as well! You can catch new episodes every Thursday at 8:00 pm on Bravo! If there is on thing we love just as much as our thoroughbreds, it is good food! 3. Passport to Horse Country! Coming this year is our first ever Horse Country Passport! The Horse Country passport is designed for you! Use your free passport to collect stamps of locations you’ve visited, earn prizes, and commemorate your time in Kentucky. 4. New Crops of Thoroughbreds! Every year, we get to welcome a new crop of foals in Kentucky! That also means a new group of yearlings that just turned 1 year old and a new class of runners that are now old enough to race! That means we will finally get to see American Pharoah’s first crop on the track this year! 5. Foal Patrol 2.0! The National Museum of Racing And Hall Of Fame’s viral sensation, Foal Patrol, will be back for it’s second year! Foal Patrol Season 2 gets you closer to a collection of in-foal mares (and a stallion!) via live cameras where people can view real-time streams. 6. Hosting our Wonderful Guests! Our most exciting prospect on the horizon of 2019 is YOU! There is nothing we enjoy more than sharing our Horse Country with locals and travelers alike! Maybe we are biased, but the blue grass is a magical place and it is our pleasure to open our gates every day.
Best of Kentucky with Mint Julep Tours! November 27, 2018 Meet your tour group at the Galt House Hotel in downtown Louisville. That’s where your Mint Julep guide will begin your bourbon and horses adventure. You’ll travel into Horse Country, east of the city, in a luxury bus with up to 23 other guests. Ashford Stud Farm The first stop is Ashford Stud Farm, a beautiful and expansive facility owned by Coolmore America. Justify isn’t the only impressive stallion living at Ashford Stud. You may also see Fusaichi Pegasus, Uncle Mo, or Mendelssohn. Fellow Triple Crown winner American Pharoahspends the season in Australia, so he won’t be on site for this tour but likely back in January. You’ll get to walk around a few parts of the stud facility and see a couple top thoroughbreds to take photos. Note: For the health and safety of the horses, no particular horse viewing is guaranteed. Woodford Reserve Distillery Next up, you’ll get back on the bus and venture a few miles down the road to Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles. This historic venue was once the Old Oscar Pepper Distillery in the mid-19th century. Then, it was Labrot and Graham Distillery from the 1870s to 1941. For more than 20 years, Woodford Reserve has created bourbon and whiskey as part of the Brown-Forman spirits family. The current master distiller is Chris Morris. Your Woodford Reserve tour includes a walk around the property, seeing vasts of mash, the iconic Scottish-style copper pot stills, and a working barrel warehouse. You’ll end with a tasting of Woodford Reserve products. The whiskey tasting usually includes Distillers’ Select, Rye, Double Oaked and/or other limited bourbon expressions. The tour bus will depart Woodford Reserve and head back to Louisville to drop you off around 6:30 p.m. You’ll have plenty of time to explore Louisville’s best restaurants and bars including stops on the Urban Bourbon Trail® on your own! Experience Includes Transportation with an expert guide Horse farm tour at Coolmore America’s Ashford Stud Farm Distillery tour and tasting at Woodford Reserve Bottled water [button target=”_self” hover_type=”default” text=”Book Now” link=”https://mintjuleptours.com/2018/10/23/triple-crown-experience-added-to-best-of-kentucky-tour/”]
Breeders’ Cup Connections October 31, 2018 The 35th Breeders’ Cup is set for Nov 2 + 3, two days of phenomenal horse racing showcasing some of the finest thoroughbreds from around the world. The weekend is capped off with the running of the Breeders’ Cup Classic – and this year the field is deep with exceptional runners. If you follow racing, you might recognize some of these names -and even if you don’t, we give you a few reasons to cheer with connections to our Horse Country members. Photo above: Eclipse Sportswire Thunder Snow: owned by Godolphin Roaring Lion Catholic Boy: consigned by Taylor Made (their 100th Grade 1 they consigned!); owned by Robert LaPenta, Madaket Stables, Siena Farm, and Twin Creeks Racing Stables; sired by More Than Read who stands at WinStar Farm Gunnevera: sired by Dialed In who stands at Darby Dan Farm Lone Sailor McKinzie: sired by Street Sense who stands at Godolphin at Jonabell West Coast: sired by Flatter who stands at Claiborne Farm, the dam is Caressing who was bred by Airdrie Stud; West Coast was raised and sold by Hermitage Farm Pavel: sired by Creative Cause who stands at Airdrie Stud, the dam is Mons Venus who is owned by WinStar Farm and Airdrie Stud Mendelssohn: sired by Scat Daddy who stood at Coolmore at Ashford Stud Yoshida: owned by WinStar Farm, China Horse Club, SF Racing, and Head of Plains Partners Mind Your Biscuits Axelrod: sired by Warrior’s Reward who stands at Spendthrift Farm Discreet Lover Accelerate: sired by Lookin At Lucky who stands at Coolmore at Ashford Stud, the dam is Issues who was bred by Adena Springs Wishing all jockeys and horses a safe ride under the twin spires!
It’s a TAA Giveaway! October 1, 2018 Visit a TAA-accredited location in Horse Country and win your next tours! We’re kicking off October celebrating the good work of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) and their accredited locations! Did you know that two Horse Country locations are non-profits doing work every single day to rescue, re-train, and re-home horses? The tours of the Kentucky Equine Humane Center and the Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center are full of up-close-and-personal time with equines ready for a new life and in the special care of these facilities. Featured image above by America’s Best Racing. About the giveaway: For every ticket booked to the Kentucky Equine Humane Center or the Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center through Breeders’ Cup week (ending November 3, 2018), you will be entered to win a VIP tour experience in Horse Country, Horse Country swag, and a TAA gift. The Kentucky Equine Humane Center is the primary accredited all-breed rescue in Kentucky, caring for and retraining horses on their farm. The goal for every horse is adoption. Located in Nicholasville, KY. The Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center is an adoption center for retired racehorses, retraining the athletes for other disciplines and preparing them for new life once adopted. Located at the Kentucky Horse Park About the TAA – The 501 (c) (3) non profit inspects, accredits, and awards grants to approved aftercare organizations to retire, retrain, and rehome Thoroughbreds using industry-wide funding. The prize redeemed will include an experience for up to four guests in Horse Country at a mutually agreeable time and location. Blackout dates and limited availability at locations may apply.
Breeders’ Cup 2018 Coming to Horse Country August 23, 2018 Tour Availability for Breeders’ Cup Week 2018! We are in the final stretch before Breeders’ Cup and we are pleased to share our members’ availability for the week! These few days will be filled with races, tours, Equestricon, and a whole lot of excitement! Where will we see you? Sunday, October 28Claiborne Farm and Spendthrift Farm Monday, October 29Claiborne Farm, Darby Dan, Godolphin at Jonabell, Hermitage Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Runnymede Farm, Spendthrift Farm, and WinStar Farm Tuesday, October 30Claiborne Farm, Darby Dan, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Gainesway,Godolphin at Jonabell, Mill Ridge Farm, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Runnymede Farm, Stone Farm Wednesday, October 31Claiborne Farm, Darby Dan, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Hallway Feeds, Kentucky Equine Humane Center, Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center, Mill Ridge Farm, Pin Oak Stud, Runnymede Farm, Stone Farm,Taylor Made, Spendthrift Farm, and WinStar Farm. Tour packages availale with Thoroughbred Heritage Horse Farm Tours Thursday, November 1Adena Springs, Darby Dan, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Hallway Feeds, Hermitage Farm, Kentucky Equine Humane Center, Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center, Mill Ridge Farm, Runnymede Farm, Saxony Farm, Taylor Made, Spendthrift Farm, and WinStar Farm. Tour packages available with Mint Julep Experiences. Friday, November 2Adena Springs, Claiborne Farm, Kentucky Equine Humane Center, Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center, and Taylor Made. Saturday, November 3Claiborne Farm, Saxony Farm, and Taylor Made Sunday, November 4Claiborne Farm, Spendthrift Farm, andTaylor Made. Tour packages available with Mint Julep Experiences. Please note that tickets purchased for the dates of October 28, 2018 through November 4, 2018 are 100% non-refundable. We do not where Justify will be at this time but we will continue to keep his fans updated as information becomes available. If you have any questions or would like assistance planning out your perfect week, just give us a call at (859) 963-1004 or email us at [email protected] The Total Package Packages to visit Horse Country locations, including transportation and other area attractions, are available as well through the following tour professionals: Mint Julep Experiences Thoroughbred Heritage Horse Farm Tours
Bits, Bourbon, and the Big Screen August 8, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] Experience the perfect summer night in the Bluegrass celebrating our signature industries – horses and bourbon! [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text]Last year was so magical, we couldn’t wait to do it again! Saturday, August 25 will be the second edition of our exclusive Kentucky experience with Woodford Reserve and Ashford Stud! This evening will feature tours of the Woodford Reserve distillery, a gourmet concession-style menu and an under-the-stars viewing of the movie “Seabiscuit” (which was partially filmed right here in Horse Country!). Guests can also add on a tour of Coolmore’s Ashford Stud to compliment their evening. Beyond the historic stone walls live some of the most sought-after stallions in the world. Your guided tour allows you to walk the grounds of this extraordinary operation and meet some of racing’s heroes. This opportunity is available only to those guests attending this special event with Woodford Reserve and spots are limited. It is our pleasure to bring together Kentucky’s two prime industries for an unforgettable evening. We can’t wait to see you there![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”center” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern” z_index=””][vc_column width=”1/3″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][button target=”_self” hover_type=”default” text=”Make Reservation” link=”https://www.woodfordreserve.com/events/” hover_background_color=”#523528″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Reservations are required and you must be 21 and above to attend. Guests are responsible for providing their own transportation to Coolmore and subsequently to Woodford Reserve. Woodford Reserve will have an open seating environment, so please bring blankets and chairs to enjoy. And don’t forget your ID![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2958″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2961″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][vc_empty_space height=”16px”][vc_single_image image=”2962″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
The 2018 Whitney Stakes August 2, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]This Saturday is the Whitney Stakes at Saratoga Race Course and it’s no surprise to see a collection of Horse Country connections! This race is another step towards the $6 million Breeders’ Cup Classic, which will take place on November 3 right here in Kentucky at Churchill Downs! Tapwrit: owend by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Robert V. LaPenta, Bridlewood Farm, Gainsway Stable (Antony Beck), and Whisper Hill Farm. Sired by Tapit, who stands at Gainesway. Consigned by Denali Stud Backyard Heaven Dalmore Mind Your Biscuits Discreet Lover Diversify: consigned by WinStar Good Samaritan: Owned by .WinStar Farm, China Horse Club International, SF Racing, Head of Plains Partners Bred by WinStar Farm McCraken: Sired by Ghostzapper who stands at Adena Springs You can watch these eight horses vie for the win on Saturday, August 4 on NBC Sports. Who will you be cheering for?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
3 Things to Know About Equestricon 2018 July 19, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] 1. It’s back – and it’s coming to Breeders’ Cup! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]ICYMI : Equestricon is back for its second racing and lifestyle fan convention – and it’s coming to Louisville this year as part of the Breeders’ Cup week of festivities![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2916″ img_size=”medium” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] 2. Horse Country Row is back! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2914″ img_size=”medium” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text] The popular Horse Country Row of our member locations is back this year, and we’re looking forward to meeting fans and guests from around the globe! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] 3. There’s an Instagram contest (two days only, July 19-20) [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Thursday, July 19-Friday, July 20, we’re hosting a giveaway of some authentic first year Equestricon swag, plus two All Access convention passes. Hop over to our Instagram account to see how you can enter to win![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2920″ img_size=”medium” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Meet a Star of Foal Patrol at Claiborne Farm! July 16, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Introducing a very special, very rare opportunity to access Claiborne Farm’s nursery division! The new Star of Foal Patrol Tour features Claiborne’s resident broodmare Sabbatical, and her ’18 colt Tour of Duty, who were stars of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame‘s inaugural season of Foal Patrol. Through this unique program, fans and enthusiasts had twenty-four-seven access to view expectant mares and subsequently their foals through winter and spring. We’re not saying WE streamed Foal Patrol during work hours, we’re just saying…..baby horses. :)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2816″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2795″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]This tour will take guests to the nursery division of Claiborne to meet Sabbatical and Tour of Duty in person! Now a weanling, Tour of Duty (by War Front) was foaled at Claiborne in January. Come check up on him on the farm and see how Sabbatical is doing, too. This small tour group will be led by their Assistant Broodmare Manager, Mary and is made possible by the Phipps Stables team sharing their horses! Each guest will receive a souvenir gift, and proceeds from this tour benefit the Man O’ War Project. You can book your tickets to this experience here — we officially can’t wait for October! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”2781″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Claiborne Farm Runhappy 5K July 2, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]We are so excited to announce the first ever Claiborne Farm Runhappy 5K! Come enjoy the rolling hills of the Bluegrass at one of the most iconic and storied Thoroughbred farms. Claiborne Farm in Paris, Kentucky has been a historic Thoroughbred operation for over 100 years. Founded in 1910, the farm has been owned and operated by the Hancock family and is the birthplace of more than 80 Champion racehorses and is the final resting place for the legendary Triple Crown winner, Secretariat. This is a rare opportunity to run or walk through the broodmare and foaling division of Claiborne Farm! This inaugural race celebrates the racing career of Claiborne Farm stallion and Champion Sprinter, Runhappy, who retired to stud in 2017. Runhappy received the accolades of Eclipse Champion Sprinter and Eclipse Champion 3-year-old in 2015. He is a three-time Grade 1 winning millionaire who was undefeated 7 for 7 in sprinting competition including the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Sprint and the Grade 1 King’s Bishop. You can register for this special 5K (or the 1 mile fun walk/run!) at the official race site here – but we encourage you do it soon…there are only a limited number of spots available! We are happy to announce that all proceeds from the inaugural Claiborne Farm Runhappy 5K will be going to TAA-accredited Second Stride. Second Stride is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt, non-profit organization providing professional rehabilitation, retraining, and placement for retired thoroughbred racehorses in qualified homes so that they may reach their full potential in a productive second career. To learn more, visit their website.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Welcome to Spy Coast Farm June 25, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Nestled next to the Kentucky Horse Park is Horse Country’s newest gem and the only sport horse farm in our membership, Spy Coast Farm! They specialize in breeding and training top quality performance horses and visitors will be given the opportunity to learn about Spy Coast Farm’s history and how they have grown to be a major player in the show jumping community. While they are currently in the middle of an expansion, guests will be guided through the property to see the construction of new facilities and learn about the current facilities! The Rehabilitation and Fitness Center, CEM Quarantine, Breeding Shed, Show Barn, and Foaling Barn are all stops along this expansive property! The 400 acre Lexington, Kentucky farm serves as the primary breeding facility for the Spy Coast operations (there are thee properties in the US- Kentucky, North Carolina, and Florida). It is the year-round home for their broodmares, foals, and young horses and serves as the summer home for their competition horses.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2635″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2637″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]At one time, the original farm was located on Strong’s Neck in Setauket, NY, and during the Revolutionary War, George Washington commissioned the Setauket Spy Ring to operate from the area. It is said that the patriot, Anna Smith Strong, received intelligence from the local tavern owner and then hung her petticoats and handkerchiefs on her laundry line in a predetermined array in order to inform the whale boat captain, Caleb Brewster, in which harbor the Redcoats were located. Their efforts contributed in no small measure to the success of the Patriot troops. Since that time, the Strong’s Neck area has been known as the “Spy Coast” which is where the farm derives its name. We are beyond excited to have Spy Coast Farm join Horse Country and to provide guests this unique experience at a one of a kind property! Tours begin Friday, June 29 and can be booked HERE![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”2636″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Thoroughbred Aftercare with John Phillips June 15, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_separator type=”normal” color=”#523528″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] John Phillips is the president of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and owner of family owned Darby Dan Farm. A third-generation horseman, John is an active member of the equine community. We sat down with Phillips for his trusted word on the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Here’s what he had to say.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] What does “aftercare” mean? “Aftercare means the care of Thoroughbreds after their racing careers are finished. It is Thoroughbred racing’s efforts to assure that Thoroughbreds have a safe landing off the racetrack after racing. Mostly it means getting a horse ready for another career, as racing is only a short part of a horse’s life. Thoroughbreds are incredible athletes. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, known as the TAA, has 64 accredited organizations with 164 facilities across North America with the majority of these organizations training Thoroughbreds for these new careers. They are hands-on organizations that the racing industry is proud of and are fascinating to see. Thousands of horses go through these facilities each year, resulting in Thoroughbreds finding success in second careers as Olympic-level jumpers to police horses and more.”[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”2542″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” qode_css_animation=””][vc_separator type=”normal”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Why would you encourage visitors to include Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance- accredited organizations, such as Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center or Kentucky Equine Humane Center, in their Horse Country Tours? “Fans of the sport should see what our equine athletes are capable of after their racing careers are finished. Being able to tour these TAA-accredited facilities and learn about the work being done shows that these horses are successful in other non-racing careers – that’s something the racing industry is proud of and wants to show off.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”2583″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]What kinds of things will someone see while visiting a Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance- accredited organization? “Each TAA-accredited organization is different, some focus on retaining or rehab to prepare horses for second careers, some are sanctuaries for retired horses, and others use Thoroughbreds as part of equine-human therapy. The Kentucky Equine Humane Center does phenomenal rehabilitation work and helps Thoroughbreds – and all breeds of equines – find homes, while the Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center is a premier off-track Thoroughbred re- schooling and retraining organization located at the Kentucky Horse Park.”[/vc_column_text][vc_separator type=”normal”][vc_single_image image=”2581″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][qode_simple_quote background_color=”#aee3e4″ simple_quote_text=”Being able to tour these TAA-accredited facilities and learn about the work being done shows that these horses are successful in other non-racing careers – that’s something the racing industry is proud of and wants to show off.“” simple_quote_author=”John Phillips, TAA President” quote_symbol_color=”#ffffff”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Why is aftercare an important part of the story to tell when talking about the Thoroughbred industry in Kentucky? “All good horsemen love the sport of racing and their horses. If the sport doesn’t take responsibility for horses at every level, then the breed, the sport, and the culture around it may not survive. Aftercare is a key part of that responsibility. And in horse-centric Kentucky, we are lucky to be surrounded by some aftercare organizations that are doing phenomenal work.”[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”2541″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” qode_css_animation=””][vc_separator type=”normal”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]What can someone do to get involved to help support Thoroughbred aftercare efforts? “Tour the TAA-accredited facilities and learn about the work they do. Those who want to support the TAA’s efforts can donate to the TAA. The TAA uses its funds to accredited and physically inspect organizations to make sure they are up to the TAA’s code of standards, and the TAA also gives grants to organizations earmarked specifically for equine care. Another way to get involved is to find accredited organization in your area and see if they need volunteers. And of course, talking about and sharing the message of accredited, responsible aftercare is important.”[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”2551″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” qode_css_animation=””][vc_separator type=”normal”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]How do I learn more about aftercare or find an accredited facility in my area? “The TAA website has information about aftercare, the TAA accreditation process, a list of accredited organizations, and more. Visit ThoroughbredAftercare.org.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_separator type=”normal”][vc_column_text] We extend a big Horse Country thank you to John for sharing about the TAA today. If you have questions or would like to get involved with aftercare efforts, or to tour a TAA-accredited Horse Country location, we’d love to chat! You can reach one of our team members at 859-963-1004 or [email protected][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Triple Crown Timeline June 7, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Triple Crown is considered one of the most prestigious achievements in the horse racing industry; determination, grit, and hard work are just a few of the components gone into the training and immense effort that it takes to be a Triple Crown winner. So let’s go back to the very beginning, where it all started the year of 1875. This was the very first year in which all three races were in existence simultaneously. Not to get confused with the British Triple Crown, the American Triple Crown is where a single 3-year-old Thoroughbred, in one season, must take home the first place title of the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. In the 143 years running, only 12 horses have taken the crown in the 3 consecutive wins of the Triple Crown races. The Kentucky Derby, held the first Saturday in May in Louisville, Kentucky at Churchill Downs is the only one of the three races to have been continuously run from its first year, inaugurated in 1875. Originally 1 1/2 miles, in 1896 the race was shortened to its current distance of 1 1/4 miles. Since 1975 the Churchill Downs field has been restricted to 20 horses. The shortest of the races, The Preakness Stakes- “The Run for the Black-Eyed Susan” held the third Saturday in May is a 1 3/16 miles race which started in 1873; not ran from 1891 to 1893, and continuously ran since 1894. Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland was the home track of Preakness from 1873 to 1889, then later held at Morris Park Racecourse in Bronx, New York in 1890, not ran for 3 years, then from 1894 through 1908 the race was held at Gravesend Race Track on Coney Island, New York, and again at Pimlico from 1909 until now. This brings us to the longing Belmont Stakes, “The Test of the Champion” and “the Run for the Carnations”, the oldest of the three TC events, the last leg of the Triple Crown, named after a well fortuned financier in New York politics and society, August Belmont. The first running was in 1867 at Jerome Park, has been ran at various distances and tracks throughout its years, is the fourth oldest race overall in North America. The 1973 TC winner, Secretariat holds the track and world record of the mile and a half run of 2:24. The 1 1/2 mile races is held in Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. The popularization of the Triple Crown was familiarized during the 1930s by Daily Racing Form columnist, Charles Hatton whom used the term routinely in his writings when referencing the 3 races. Newspapers were consistently using the term in the 1940s as more and more owners began preparing specifically for these races. Although there were subsequent prior 1950 TC winners that were later awarded, in December of 1950, the Thoroughbred Racing Associations in New York held their annual awards dinner, where they proclaimed and awarded Sir Barton the very first horse to win all three races, in 1919. There was an average of one Triple Crown winner every 2.5 years during the 18 year span between Gallant Fox’s win in 1930 and Citation’s win in 1948. There was then a 25 year hiatus until Secretariat’s win in 1973; Seattle Slew in 1977 and Affirmed in 1978 stirred special excitement in racing fans with a back to back win. There was then a long halt to winners until our very own (and very much loved!) American Pharoah in 2015. We now only eagerly await on the edge of our seats to see how Justify holds his track in the 150th running of the Belmont Stakes this Saturday, June 9th![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Jet-setting Justify May 21, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Being a racehorse involves a lot of travel. The horse will start off at the farm they are born, then by the time they turn two years old most will have traveled through an auction ring before traveling the country or even the world for their racing career. Justify is no exception – he first came to WinStar by way of the 2016 Keeneland September Yearling Sale. He was Hip 50 and was purchased by partners WinStar Farm, China Horse Club, and SF Bloodstock for $500,000. After being purchased, Justify came home to WinStar where he learned how to be a racehorse at the Hopewell division. Justify at Hopewell – October 2016 It is at Hopewell that Toby Richards and Heather Stark teach young horses, like Justify, their first lessons including having a saddle on their back and walking through a starting gate. If you want to learn more about Toby and Heather, the Paulick Report did a story on them on May 10th that you can read HERE. Justify remained at Hopewell until WinStar felt he was ready for the next stage of his racing journey. At that point, he was vanned a mere 6 miles down the road to his new home of Keeneland Racecourse when he join trainer Rodolphe Brisset’s barn. Brisset, who trains fellow WinStar owned Preakness contender Quip, trained Justify for the five weeks he had him before Justify was sent to Bob Baffert for his racing campaign. Active racehorses traditionally stay with their trainer, not their owner, while they live and train at racetracks. Since Baffert’s operation is based in California with horses staying between Los Alamitos and Santa Anita, Justify got on a plane and moved to California last year. California is where he made the first three starts of his career when he wowed people in a maiden special weight, allowance, and finally the Santa Anita Derby. Justify left his California home for the first time in six months when he flew to Louisville on April 30th on his way to winning the Kentucky Derby just two weeks ago. Instead of returning to California, Justify has settled into his new temporary home on the backside of Churchill Downs. He has stayed there since the Derby to train for the Preakness, and he arrived in Baltimore, Maryland on Wednesday afternoon. Justify at Pimlico – Friday, May 18, 2018 Staying at Churchill Downs means Justify does not have to spend as much time travelling back and forth between the coasts to train for his races. He will eventually go back to California, as it is an easy access point to get him all over the world for some international races. Once his racing career ends, he will make his was back to his old Kentucky home and transition into his breeding career. Until that day, we can will continue to watch his many success on the track and cheer him on![/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]A big thank you to the staff at WinStar for providing this post to us![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Where in the world are the stallions? May 10, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]Spring time in Kentucky is one of the most special and beautiful times in the Bluegrass. Not only are our rolling hills greening up and coming to life, a brand new crop of little future champions begins dotting the landscape, and the breeding season begins to wind down – in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, the breeding season is just getting started and many of our Kentucky stallions are invited to spend a little time on the flip side. That means they’ll be away from their old Kentucky homes for a little while, and therefore not a part of tours in Kentucky’s Horse Country. Luckily, these guys are used to traveling (they did it a lot in their racing days!), they have travel buddies (most have dedicated staff with them wherever they go!), and they’ll be back! Our member locations will still be offering fantastic experiences, but we understand that certain horses hold special places in certain hearts and, while we can’t promise who will be around and available from day to day, we want to make sure we share as much information as possible. This information reflects, to our best understanding, the availability of shuttling stallions known at this time. We are just as eager to see our beloved horses return home and we’re here to remind you the horses are in great hands and will return to us late this year/early next year. We will continue to keep you all informed on their safe returns home. American Pharoah will be shuttling to Australia and will not be available after June 15. California Chrome is shuttling to Chile. Per the farm’s information, there are no guarantees he will be a part of any farm tour beginning June 1 due to preparations for shuttling. Starting in July, Frosted, Street Boss and Astern will not be available for tours as they prepare to shuttle. Please know this information is relative specifically to shuttling stallion schedules. We can not guarantee the availability of a specific horse on a tour at any point in the year. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Talk Derby To Me May 2, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”2396″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” qode_css_animation=””][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]April showers bring May flowers…roses to be exact! It is time for the 144th Run for the Roses at the Kentucky Derby and we are up to our withers with Horse Country connections. Maybe we are biased, but it is easy to get excited for the most thrilling 2 minutes in racing when the field hits so close to home. Audible – by Into Mischief of Spendthrift; bred by/partially owned by WinStar My Boy Jack – by Creative Cause and bred by Brereton C Jones of Airdrie, running on Hallway Feeds Good Magic – owned by Stonestreet in partnership with eFive Racing, sired by Curlin and out of Glinda the Good who are both owned by Stonestreet, running on Hallway Feeds Audible – owned by WinStar Farm, sired by Into Mischief who stands at Spendthrift Noble Indy – owned by WinStar Farm in partnership with Repole Stables, grandsire is the great AP Indy who stands at Lane’s End, raised on Hallway Feeds Bolt D’Oro – bred by WinStar, sired by Medaglia D’Oro who stands at Darley, raised and running on Hallway Feeds, bonus fact: he will stand stud at Spendthrift when he retires! Enticed – owned by Godolphin, sired by Medaglia D’Oro, raised on Hallway Feeds Mendelssohn – partly owned by Mrs. John Magnier and Michael Tabor of Coolmore; sired by the late Scat Daddy of Coolmore; raised on Hallway Feeds; was the September sale session topper in 2016 as a yearling, where he sold for $3M; half brother to Into Mischief & Beholder who stand at Spendthrift Justify – partly owned by WinStar Farm, sired by the late Scat Daddy of Coolmore, running on Hallway Feeds Flameaway – sired by the late Scat Daddy of Coolmore, running on Hallway Feeds Solomini – sired by Curlin who is owned by Stonestreet, running on Hallway Feeds Vino Russo – sired by Curlin who is owned by Stonestreet Bravazo – sired by Awesome Again of Adena Springs Magnum Moom – sired by Malibu Moon of Spendthrift, raised on Hallway Feeds Free Drop Billy – sired by Union Rags of Lane’s End Farm Hofburg – sired by Tapit of Gainesway, running on Hallway Feeds Combatant – sired by the late Scat Daddy of Coolmore[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image=”2399″ img_size=”full” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
4 Things to do in Horse Country April 4, 2018 [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] 1. Handicapping the 2018 Kentucky Derby [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Join Taylor Made Farm’s resident Handicapper, Phillip Shelton, for a fun filled hour of learning the art of handicapping! Together, you’ll dive into Daily Racing Form, learn the lingo, what all those fractions mean, and even (hopefully!) pick a few winners. Unlike our monthly Handicapping 101 session, the Derby Week Edition will focus completely on betting the 2018 Kentucky Oaks and Derby! This is an interactive experience with plenty of time of Q & A and includes a 4-course Kentucky Derby themed meal![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2305″ img_size=”medium” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] 2. Mill Ridge Walking Tour [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text] This new experience at Mill Ridge should put a spring in your step (for two miles)! Join sixth generation horseman Price Bell or his father, Headley Bell, as they share their own personal stories of raising horses – and their families – at Mill Ridge. This two hour relaxed, intimate tour will allow for up-close-and-personal experiences with the horses, as well as breath-taking views of the land that the Bluegrass has come to be famous for. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2293″ img_size=”medium” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] 3. Next Level Breeding Experience [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Spendthrift Farm is opening their gates and breeding shed doors for a next level experience you can only find in Horse Country. This new, intimate experience gives you the opportunity to see a breeding session in person! You’ll get a look inside the fascinating world of Thoroughbred breeding, learn about the history and current stallions at Spendthrift Farm, view a live cover, and ask questions during a Q&A Session (with refreshments and snacks) following the tour.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2298″ img_size=”medium” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text] 4. Visit a Nursery Farm [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text] Horse Country nursery farms are full of excitement right now and we invite you to see the cuteness in real life! Experience the thrill and beauty of visiting the next generations of champions at one of these unique operations. There is history, heritage, and potential on every acre. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”2264″ img_size=”medium” qode_css_animation=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
The Road to the Derby March 17, 2018 The Rebel Stakes is a key marker on the road to the Kentucky Derby with a total of 85 Derby qualifying points allotted to the top four finishers. American Pharoah won The Rebel and went on to be our Triple Crown Champion in 2015! The St. Patrick’s Day race features 11 Kentucky Derby hopefuls with the majority having at least one connection to Horse Country! Title Ready‘s sire is More Than Ready who stands at WinStar. Magnum Moon‘ sire is Malibu Moon who stands at Spendthrift. Higher Power is owned and was bred by Pin Oak. His sire is Medaglia d’Oro who stands a Godolphin at Jonabell. Pryor’s Sire is Paynter who stands at WinStar. Pryor was also bred by WinStar. Sporting Chance‘s sire is Tiznow who stands at WinStar. Zing Zang‘s sire is Tapit who stands at Gainesway. Zing Zang was also bred by Gainesway. Combatant‘s sire is Scat Daddy who stood at Coolmore at Ashford Stud. Bode’s Maker‘s sire is Bodemeister who stands at WinStar. If you are ready to make the most of the 2018 Kentucky Derby, we are here to help. On May 1st, Taylor Made will be hosting a very special edition of their Handicapping 101 session. Join their resident Handicapper, Phillip Shelton, for a fun filled hour of learning the art of handicapping focused completely on betting the 2018 Kentucky Oaks and Derby! Together, you’ll dive into Daily Racing Form, learn the lingo, what all those fractions mean, and even (hopefully!) pick a few winners. This is an interactive experience with plenty of time for Q & A and includes a 4-course Kentucky Derby themed meal! When you are ready to take you racing knowledge up a gear, check out this exclusive event!
