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Breeders’ Cup Winners in Horse Country

Posted on October 31, 2024 - 12:17 pm by

The Breeders’ Cup World Championships brings together the top racehorses in each division from across the world to compete on the same stage, and answer the age-old question – who is truly the best of the best. The 2024 World Championships will take place this weekend at Del Mar Racecourse in San Diego, California. Before we celebrate the newest additions to the Breeders’ Cup record books this weekend, we’re taking a stroll down memory lane 

Since its inception in 1984, the Breeders’ Cup has showcased top equine athletes as they put on tremendous performances on the racetrack. We’re lucky to have so many of these horses right here in Horse Country, allowing us to reminisce about and celebrate their successes throughout the year. 

Let’s take a look at some of the former Breeders’ Cup champions who now reside in the Bluegrass, and learn more about how you can visit the farms they call home!

Tiznow is one of the most popular Breeders’ Cup winners, and the only horse to have won the Breeder’ Cup Classic twice. His incredible victory in the 2001 Classic is one of the most well-known race calls of all time. Tiznow resides at WinStar Farm, where he is now pensioned, alongside fellow Breeders’ Cup winner Life is Good (2021 Dirt Mile). 

Just two horses in the 40 year history of the Breeders’ Cup have won three championship races, and one of those horses is Beholder, owned by Spendthrift Farm. Beholder’s victories came in two different races, across the span of five years, in the 2012 Juvenile Fillies, and the Distaff in 2013 and 2016. 

Spendthrift’s champion residents also include Monomoy Girl (2018 & 2020 Distaff), Authentic (2020 Classic), Goldencents (2013 & 2014 Dirt Mile) and Mitole (2019 Sprint). 

American Pharoah capped off his historic three year old campaign with a thrilling victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland in 2015. The Triple Crown winner became the first horse ever to win the Grand Slam, which includes the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup Classic. After his victory in the Classic, American Pharoah retired to stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud.

Coolmore is also home to Breeders’ Cup winners Corniche (2021 Juvenile), Golden Pal (2020 Juvenile Turf Sprint & 2021 Turf Sprint), Mendelssohn (2017 Juvenile Turf) and Uncle Mo (2010 Juvenile). 

Jonabell Farm is home to three winners of the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, two of which went on to win Triple Crown races in the following year. Midshipman (2008 Juvenile), Nyquist (2015 Juvenile) and Essential Quality (2020 Juvenile), all of whom were also named Eclipse Champion Two Year Old Male at the end of their respective Juvenile seasons. Cody’s Wish, who completed his first season at stud in 2024, won back-to-back editions of the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile in 2023 and 2022. 

Along with their champion stallions, Darley owns a number of top class race mares, including some Breeders’ Cup champions who reside at one of their nursery divisions, Gainsborough Farm. Two winners of the Breeders’ Cup Distaff are among the residents of Gainsborough, Ashado (2004) and Round Pond (2006).

Arguably one of the most popular Breeders’ Cup winners of all time is the great racemare Zenyatta, who won 19 of her 20 races including the 2008 Ladies’ Classic (now Distaff) and 2009 Classic (the only female winner of the Classic). After retiring from the racetrack, she retired to Lane’s End as a broodmare. The Breeders’ Cup starpower at Lane’s End is evident in their stallion complex as well, which is home to champions including City of Light (2018 Dirt Mile), Flightline (2022 Classic), Game Winner (2018 Juvenile) and Liam’s Map (2015 Dirt Mile)

Taylor Made Farm’s Breeders’ Cup history is currently highlighted by two-time Breeders’ Cup winning stallion Knicks Go, who was victorious in the 2020 Dirt Mile and 2021 Classic. Their connections to the Breeders’ Cup continue with some residents of their broodmare division, including Folklore (2005 Juvenile Fillies) and Miss Macy Sue, the dam of Liam’s Map (2015 Dirt Mile). 

Mill Ridge Farm’s connections to the Breeders’ Cup include their two Breeders’ Cup winning stallions, Oscar Performance (2016 Juvenile Turf) and Aloha West (2021 Sprint). Eight Breeders’ Cup winners have been bred, raised and/or sold by Mill Ridge in the farm’s history including Oscar Performance, Round Pound (2006 Distaff), Life is Sweet (2009 Ladies’ Classic) and more. 


Dive deeper into the life of some of these equine superstars with our Champion Connections, which bring together the life of the Thoroughbred from foaling barn to finish line and beyond. While tour schedules vary throughout the year, you can visit each of the members mentioned in this article, and you might even get to meet your favorite Breeders’ Cup winner or other champions on the tour!

Fall in Horse Country

Posted on October 2, 2024 - 10:56 am by

Cooler weather, colorful autumn scenes, racing at Keeneland… can you tell we’re big fans of Fall? While Horse Country is a great place to visit any time of the year, Fall is particularly special to us.

This season brings a variety of “can’t miss” events, experiences and more, so we’ve put together a guide to Fall in Horse Country to help you build an itinerary for this busy time.  

Racing at Keeneland

October means the return of racing at Keeneland! This exciting time of year brings together some of the best racehorses in the country, many of which will go on to compete in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Del Mar Racecourse in November. Racing begins on Friday, October 4th and runs through Saturday, October 26th, with racing taking place every day except for Mondays and Tuesdays.

Along with racing at Keeneland, we highly recommend heading to the track early in the morning to watch the horses train! Morning training takes place daily from 5:30am-10am, with Sunrise Trackside family and community events taking place each Saturday of the meet from 8am-10am.

We recommend checking out our Guide to Keeneland for a more in depth look at how to make the most of your time at the races.

Horse Country Staff Recommendation: Be sure to head to the Keeneland Track Kitchen to enjoy a homestyle breakfast after watching morning training. It’s a local favorite, and a common spot for horse trainers, jockeys, owners and more to enjoy a coffee!

Tours

Enjoy the autumn weather and colorful trees, while getting up close and personal to some of Kentucky’s friendliest equine residents on a tour in Horse Country.

A few tours are exclusive to October, Gainesway Farm in Lexington and Three Chimneys Farm in Versailles, along with the Stallion Complex Tour at Mill Ridge Farm in Lexington, which is being held for the first time this fall. Since this is a quiet time of year for stallions, it’s usually a great time to get to see your favorite retired champions like Gun Runner (Three Chimneys Farm), Tapit (Gainesway Farm), Cody’s Wish (Jonabell Farm), Authentic (Spendthrift Farm) and more!

A majority of foals have graduated to their next stage of life as weanlings, spending time with their pasture mates and growing up big and strong and the famed Kentucky Bluegrass! Mares, weanlings and sometimes even yearlings are excited to meet tour guests at farms like Denali Stud, Lane’s End Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, Runnymede Farm and more.

Plus, we recently welcomed two new members to the Horse Country community, BraveHearts Equine Center and McPeek Racing at Magdalena Farm!

Horse Country Staff Recommendation: Not sure which tour to choose? Give us a shout! The Horse Country Concierge team is happy to help craft itineraries or answer any questions you might have. Reach out by email at info@visithorsecountry.com or phone at (859) 963-1004.

Equine Events

There are a variety of equine-centric events taking place this October, some hosted by our Horse Country members.
Outside of the Keeneland Fall Meet, the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover is the most prominent equine event in Kentucky in October. The Thoroughbred Makeover brings together thousands of retired racehorses who have been retrained to excel at new disciplines ranging from show jumping to ranch work, dressage to field hunters and more. The event takes place Oct. 9 – 12 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

Two of our non-profit touring partners are hosting events to raise funds that will support their horses as they are trained and eventually transitioned into new careers and homes. The Kentucky Equine Adoption Center is hosting a “Golf Tournament Fore Horses” on October 7th, with more information available here. The Secretariat Center is hosting their annual “Bluegrass Brunch & Bubbles” on October 13th at Fasig-Tipton. Tickets can be purchased here.

Spy Coast Farm is launching the inaugural “EquiConnect: Community Equine Day” on October 19th. The event aims to connect the local community to resources available within the equine industry with many free, family-friendly activities. Learn more here.

Local “Must-Do” Experiences

Fall is a fun time in Kentucky, and not just for horse lovers! We’re often lucky to see beautiful fall colors as the foliage changes and the leaves fall, making it a great time to check out some of the scenic drives around the area. Our personal favorites are Old Frankfort Pike (if you start at its beginning in Lexington, you’ll have a chance to see an incredible statue of Secretariat), and Paris Pike. VisitLEX has put together two great driving tours to make the most of a roadtrip in Lexington, the Regal Traditions and the Parks and Paddocks Driving Tour, which both take you through the heart of Horse Country and pass many of our member locations.

If a day spent outdoors on a hiking trail is more up your alley, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington is a great escape located not too far out of town. Take a drive east to Red River Gorge to spend the day exploring some of Kentucky’s most famed natural wonders including Natural Bridge State Park.

We couldn’t forget classic fall activities like apple picking and a day at the pumpkin patch! Local orchards like Eckert’s Boyd Orchard, Evan’s Orchard and Cider Mill, and more, make for a great addition to a weekend in Horse Country, thanks to their convenient locations in Versailles and Georgetown, respectively. Be sure to check out this guide from VisitLex for more information on these locations and many more!

Horse Country Staff Recommendation: Head to Downtown Lexington for a bowl of Sawyer’s famous chili, a comforting meal on a cool, autumn day. While you’re there, be sure to go across the street and check out the Downtown Lexington Visitor’s Center, located in the historic old Fayette County Courthouse. Zim’s Cafe and the Thirsty Fox are also must-try spots if you’re in the mood for great food and drinks!

Horse Country’s Guide to Keeneland

Posted on September 30, 2024 - 7:28 pm by

Fall in Kentucky is synonymous with the Keeneland Race Meet, which begins on Friday, October 5. Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or heading to the track for the first time, Keeneland is a can’t miss experience for anyone traveling to Kentucky in October.

P.S. Every guest who purchases a ticket for a Horse Country tour in October will receive a free general admission ticket for a day at the races, for each guest in their party. Be sure to check your confirmation email for more information!

Morning Training

Enjoy the sights and sounds of morning training at Keeneland, seven days a week from 5:30am-10am. Thoroughbreds are like any athlete, and they work out on a regular basis to prepare for their next race. You might see horses out for a casual jog or completing a more serious ‘breeze’ before they compete in an upcoming race. 

After watching morning workouts, we recommend heading to Keeneland’s Track Kitchen to enjoy a Southern, homestyle breakfast. You might even see some of racing’s most well known trainers, owners and jockeys, who are known to frequent this beloved establishment. 

For more information on the Keeneland Track Kitchen, please click here

Horse Country Staff Recommendation: Be sure to try the cinnamon apples at the Track Kitchen. They’re the perfect fall treat!

Place Your Bets

Wagering can be a fun way to add some excitement to your day at the races, even if you’re not a seasoned handicapper! BETologists are the resident experts on betting the races at Keeneland. There are a few stations around the track (and the Hill, for those who enjoy tailgating!), where BETologists provide helpful tips about reading the program, how to wager and more. Just look for the folks in the fedoras!

If you’re already betting-savvy, be sure to check out the Keeneland Select app, and view the free digital program provided by Keeneland for each day of the race meet.

Horse Country Staff Recommendation: Grab a few friends and start a show parlay! Put in a few dollars and wager on a horse each race to show, using your winnings to bet on the next race.

Race Day ‘Musts’

On a race day at Keeneland, there are so many things to see, enjoy and experience, it’s almost hard to fit them all in one day! We’ve put together some of our favorite ‘musts’ for your next day at the races.

Our must-have afternoon snack at the races is a cup of warm bread pudding, especially great when enjoyed on a cool, October day. Bonus points if you have burgoo as well!. Be sure to stop by the Keeneland Shop, located near the South Grandstand Entrance, which features everything from stunning race day outfits to home goods that represent the best of Kentucky. Spend some time at the paddock and walking ring to see the horses before the head out to the racetrack. It’s great to see the contenders up close, especially during stakes races when top horses from around the world are competing!

Go Behind the Scenes

Did you know that Keeneland offers tours of their facility, which has been designated as a National Historic Landmark? There are a few different ways to go behind the scenes at Keeneland and learn about its history and current operations. The Keeneland Morning Works Tour and Backstretch Tour are both offered early in the day, when horses are training on the track. The Keeneland Owner’s Experience is a truly one of a kind experience, giving guests a feel of what it is like to be a Thoroughbred racehorse owner on race day. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the paddock, walking ring, and even watch a race from the winner’s circle! Learn more about Keeneland’s tour offerings here.

Horse Country Staff Recommendation: Stop by the Keeneland Library while you’re in town for the races. The Library is the world’s largest repository of information related to the Thoroughbred, and often has exhibits relating to the history of the sport of horse racing, and Kentucky.

Meet Magdalena Farm, the Newest Member of Horse Country, Inc!

Posted on August 27, 2024 - 4:56 pm by

McPeek Racing at Magdalena Farm is officially the newest member of the Visit Horse Country community!

Magdalena Farm is a Thoroughbred breeding and racing farm located in Lexington, Kentucky, and the Kentucky base of leading racehorse trainer Kenny McPeek. Since his training career began in 1995, McPeek’s trainees have earned over $126 million on the racetrack. He has trained 21 grade one winning racehorses, most notably 2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan, 2024 Kentucky Oaks winner Thorpedo Anna, 2020 Preakness Stakes winner Swiss Skydiver and more. The farm has an illustrious history as one of the oldest commercial Thoroughbred breeding farms in Kentucky, dating back to the Revolutionary War. It has been home to many famous Thoroughbreds, including 1959 Kentucky Derby winner Tomy Lee and three-time Horse of the Year Devil Diver.

Tours of Magdalena Farm will give guests a unique, behind the scenes look at the life of a Thoroughbred from the foaling barn to the racetrack. You will begin your visit with a stop at the McPeek Racing office, where you will learn about the history of Magdalena Farm, its importance to the Thoroughbred industry 

The tour will then move to the training barn, where visitors will learn about the care, daily schedule, horse management and training philosophy of McPeek Racing. You may even get up close and personal with racehorses in training, as many of McPeek’s horses enjoy ‘vacations’ at the farm between races! Many historic racehorses are buried on the property, giving guests the chance to learn the stories and significance of some of these notable residents. 

The last stop on the tour will be the foaling barns, where mares and foals reside and enjoy their days grazing in the paddocks surrounding the barns. You will learn about the process of breeding and raising Thoroughbreds, and get up close and personal to the mares and foals who call the farm home. You’ll even see the stall in which 2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan was born! 

Tours of McPeek Racing at Magdalena Farm will be offered at 1pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays in September and October

Book Your Tour of McPeek Racing at Magdalena Farm

The Horse Country Summer Bucket List

Posted on June 3, 2024 - 1:06 pm by

Summertime in the Bluegrass is hard to beat. Kentucky’s natural beauty is on full display, and the warm weather makes for a perfect time to get out and experience some of the great things that this region has to offer. One of the best parts about our slice of paradise is that there is so much to experience within Central Kentucky, from horse farm tours to local eateries to picture-perfect downtowns and more. 

To help you make the most of your time in Kentucky, we’ve put together a bucket list of things to experience this summer. Whether you want to check off every experience or mix and match a few as they fit your travel plans, we encourage you to use this as a guide when planning your next trip to Horse Country. 

See a Kentucky Derby winner

A bucket list item for anyone, horse racing fan or not! Here in Horse Country we are lucky to be the home of eight Kentucky Derby winners, and our members have opened their gates to welcome guests and meet these champions. Learn more about those Derby winners and get your tickets to visit the farms that they reside at by clicking here.

While showings depend on the health and schedule of the horse, our members strive to show fan favorites on tours.

Feed a horse a treat

It’s always a good day when you get to pet a horse, and an added bonus when you get to feed a peppermint, carrot or another treat. Our interactive tours allow for guests to get up close and personal to the horses, and some of the tours even allow you to feed the horses!

Check out scenic Old Frankfort Pike

One of the most scenic roadways in Kentucky is Old Frankfort Pike, which begins in Lexington at the legendary Secretariat statue and runs through Fayette, Woodford and Franklin counties. The road passes through picturesque Horse Country and passes farms like Three Chimneys Farm, Airdrie Stud, and the yearling divisions of Lane’s End Farm and Godolphin.

Eat at a locally-owned restaurant

Kentucky’s local food scene is one of our favorite things about the Bluegrass state. Lots of restaurants in the area feature locally grown food products including veggies, fruits, meat products and more. We’re all about fresh, tasty meals and highly recommend anything owned by Ouita Michel (Wallace Station, Midway Bakery, Zim’s Cafe and more). VisitLex has a great list of restaurants in Lexington and the surrounding area.

Take a photo in front of a horse-themed mural

Here in Central Kentucky we celebrate the horse in many ways, including murals and other community art installations. VisitLex offers a mural challenge for visitors interested in exploring street art in Lexington, including a few equine-themed murals, found here. Some of the surrounding cities also have murals including a Secretariat mural in downtown Paris, a Horse Country mural in downtown Versailles and a mural featuring Taylor Made Farm in downtown Nicholasville.

Take a selfie with a foal

Let’s be honest… what’s cuter than a young foal? These little ones are usually incredibly eager to meet new friends and pose for selfies. Our mare and foal nursery farms provide ample opportunities to meet these friendly horses. Plus, you never know when you could meet a future superstar!

Enjoy a shuttle tour

On a shuttle tour, guests get to venture through the farm on an electric shuttle, getting all of the Bluegrass views one could want, with less time on your feet. Typically these tours focus on mares and foals, but a few locations (Lane’s End Farm, Spy Coast Farm and WinStar Farm) also visit stallions as a part of the tour. You can find shuttle tour availability here.

Visit an adoption facility or sanctuary

Our nonprofit members do incredible work to ensure that all horses have a quality life through retraining, rehoming and providing lifelong sanctuary. Multiple locations retrain Thoroughbreds and other breeds for new careers, providing them with the foundation to enjoy life as a riding horse, including the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, New Vocations, Second Stride and the Secretariat Center. TRF at Chestnut Hall is a unique sanctuary farm that is home to horses who did not go on to a second career after leaving the racetrack, and instead serve as ambassadors for the Thoroughbred breed.

Go shopping in a local downtown

Whether you’re looking for home decor, art, fashion or just a window shopper, there’s lots of great shopping in central Kentucky. We recommend checking out downtown Midway or Versailles for shops, bakeries and restaurants, both small towns with lots of shopping options!

Watch morning training at Keeneland

Some things are worth getting up early for, and morning training at Keeneland is absolutely one of those. Seven days a week, 365 days a year, Thoroughbreds train on the main track at Keeneland – and the track is open to the public! Enjoy workouts and then head to the track kitchen for a delicious southern-style breakfast.

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. We would love to see how you spend summertime in Horse Country, so be sure to tag us on social media @VisitHorseCountry (Facebook, Instagram and TikTok) or @KYHorseCountry (Twitter/X) and use #VisitHorseCountry.

Celebrate National Adopt a Horse Month

Posted on May 22, 2024 - 3:16 pm by

Did you know that May is the National Adopt a Horse Month? That’s right, not only can you adopt furry friends such as cats and dogs, but also horses of all breeds, ponies, and mules! Here at Horse Country, we have five member locations that serve as aftercare facilities for horses looking for their forever home.

Kentucky Equine Adoption Center 

Located just outside of Lexington, the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center sits on 72 acres of green pastures and rolling hills, home to equines of all kinds. Here, you can find horses, mules, miniature ponies, and even donkeys! The Kentucky Equine Adoption provides a haven for horses while they explore new careers and find their forever home. They operate with the same goal in mind as they did during their conception in 2006, that every horse gets adopted. 

Currently, there are 35 horses residing at the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, waiting to find their forever home! Whether you are looking for a companion for your four-legged friend in their pasture, or an athlete ready to compete, the adoption center has a horse for you.

This month, KYEAC is featuring two of their adoptable mares, Cashew and Snickers. Cashew comes from Eastern Kentucky, where she once lived along the strip mines. Now, she is learning to be saddled, and is excited for adventures with a new best friend. Snickers is a Bay/White Pinto mare. At the age of 23, she has spent her life as a pet and is gaining confidence with her training here at KYEAC. Snickers is looking for an experienced trainer to continue learning with or could serve as a non-ridable companion for your friends at home!

The Kentucky Equine Adoption Center offers tours seven days a week, with public and private tours available for groups to choose from! Learn more and book your visit here.

New Vocations

Come visit New Vocations, the nation’s largest racehorse adoption program. Based in Lexington, Kentucky, New Vocations has expanded across the country to rehabilitate, retrain, and find new homes for both Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds with loving adopters. Founded by Dot Morgan in 1992, New Vocations is still operated under her vision and now with the help of her two daughters. Since ’92, they have found new homes for over 9,000 retired horses from the track.  

New Vocations is currently working with 12 off-the-track-Thoroughbreds at their Lexington farm, providing rehabilitation and retraining, so they can succeed in their second career. One adoptable horse, Largent, is sired by Into Mischief, who you can visit at Spendthrift Farm with Horse Country! At New Vocations, there is a horse for everyone, whether you are looking for your next trail-ride champion, companion in the fields, or a new competitor in your hunter-jumper barn. 

You can visit New Vocations throughout the year on a public tour, hosted on Wednesdays and Fridays at 1pm, or on a private visit, hosted six days a week at various times. Learn more and book your tour here.

Second Stride 

Since 2005, over 1600 retired racehorses have found their new homes through Second Stride. Located just outside of Louisville, half an hour from the infamous Churchill Downs, Second Stride provides professional rehabilitation and retraining of retired thoroughbreds to find new homes following their career on the track.  In addition to racehorses, they also work to rehome broodmares and bloodstock. 

Second Stride offers horses for every discipline, whether you’re looking for a young filly to train and begin showing, or an older thoroughbred gelding to be a well-mannered trail-riding companion. Each Thoroughbred listed on their site is ready to be adopted, and you can learn all about their unique personalities and individual training by reading their profiles. 

Second Stride opens their doors to guests Monday through Saturday throughout the year, where you can meet their adoptable retired racehorses and learn more about how aftercare and the Thoroughbred industry go hand in hand. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet your new best friend! 

Secretariat Center

The Secretariat Center has dedicated themselves to retraining and rehoming Thoroughbreds after their time on the track since 2004. Offering an unparalleled rehabilitation program, the Secretariat Center teaches off-the-track Thoroughbreds a wide variety of skills and training that can be used for many disciplines in the equestrian world. In addition, they are exposed to diverse experiences to become accustomed to life post-racetrack, such as what to expect at a horse show, or what they may encounter on a trail ride! This unique process prepares each horse for their next career and evaluates both their strengths and personality to place them with the perfect forever home. 

The Secretariat Center sits on 20 acres of land located on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park. At any time, you can find ten to twenty horses participating in the retraining program, all of whom are up for adoption! While the Secretariat Center is not offering tours at the moment, we look forward to re-opening their gates to visitors soon. 

Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation Sanctuary Farm at Chestnut Hall

Over the past 40 years, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation has established themselves as the oldest and largest Thoroughbred rescue in the United States. When a Thoroughbred can no longer race on the track, TRF takes them in with the promise of a lifelong and peaceful retirement, safe from possible neglect, abuse, or slaughter. Their mission is one-of-a-kind, providing a sanctuary for those who cannot be retrained, and rehabilitating those who are ready to begin their second career. The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation currently provides haven for 425 horses, across 15 farms, spanning through 8 states, including our very own Bluegrass State! 

Nestled in the rolling hills of Prospect, Kentucky lies TRF Sanctuary Farm at Chestnut Hall, home to 10 retired racehorses on a beautiful 25 acres. The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation established this sanctuary farm in 2021, where the horses serve as ambassadors to our sport’s aftercare beyond the track. At the sanctuary, the horses live out the rest of their lives in a safe place while educating visitors about the Thoroughbred. TRF welcomes visitors each day to visit their beautiful land and retired horses. Click here to learn more and book your tour.

Horse Country Connections: 2024 Kentucky Derby

Posted on May 2, 2024 - 10:59 pm by

The first weekend of May brings the eyes of the world upon Kentucky. The G1 Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve is the most iconic race in North American Thoroughbred racing, and one of the most recognizable races in the entire world.

While the Kentucky Derby is often symbolized by Mint Juleps, big hats and high fashion, at the heart of it all is the horse. For 150 years, the Derby has represented the hopes and dreams of countless horsemen and women whose goal is to one day be victorious in the run for the roses.

A number of factors make the Derby a unique race – the race is only open to three year old horses (therefore horses only have one shot at running in the race), up to 20 horses can enter the starting gate (the biggest field of race in North America) and the race is run at a mile and a quarter (a longer distance than the entrants have run previously). Along with the huge crowd and fanfare that go along with America’s most popular horse race, it takes a special horse to win this race.

This year, 20 Thoroughbred colts will enter the starting gates on Saturday, May 4 for their shot at the history books. We’re thrilled to be cheering on a number of horses in the field with connections to our #VisitHorseCountry members. Congratulations to these horses, their connections, and our members who played a part in their success.

The G1 Kentucky Derby field, presented in post position order:

Tune in to the Kentucky Derby on NBC and Peacock beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 4. Post time for the Kentucky Derby is set for approximately 6:57 p.m. ET.

The Land of Legends: Kentucky Derby Winners in Horse Country

Posted on April 23, 2024 - 2:36 pm by

While the Kentucky Derby might be held in Louisville, Lexington is the home of Kentucky Derby winners. From their foaling and early development to stallion careers, the journey of many Kentucky Derby champions runs through Horse Country.

The Kentucky Derby was first run in May of 1875 and is the longest continually held sporting event in America. Over the years, the distance, field size and date of the race may have changed, but the prestige has remained the same. The Kentucky Derby is run each year on the First Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

Today, the Kentucky Derby is run at a distance of 1 1/14 miles, with a maximum field size of 20 horses. This year’s edition, to be run on May 4th, will be the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. Before we dive in to this year’s field, let’s look back at the victories of the Kentucky Derby winners who now call Horse Country home. 

2023 – Mage 

Though Mage came into the Kentucky Derby off of a second place finish in the G1 Florida Derby, he was considered an underdog in the race, going off at odds of 15-1. His running style as a closer paid off well after a hot pace was set by the early leaders, and Mage closed from 16th place to win by a length over Two Phil’s. His victory was the first Kentucky Derby win for his jockey Javier Castellano, trainer Gustavo Delgado and owners CMNWLTH, Ogma Investments, LLC, Sterling Racing LLC and Ramiro Restrepo.

Mage was born and raised at Runnymede Farm in Paris, Kentucky, who consigned the colt as a yearling at the Keeneland September Sale. He now stands as a stallion at Airdrie Stud in Midway, Kentucky. You can visit both Runnymede Farm and Airdrie Stud through tours offered by Horse Country!

2020 – Authentic 

The Kentucky Derby has only been postponed twice in its history – in 1945 due to World War II and 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2020 Kentucky Derby was held on the first Saturday in September, rather than the first Saturday in May, in front of a very limited crowd of horsemen and women.

Authentic was the third betting choice in the race, having won the G1 Haskell Stakes along with a handful of other graded stakes races prior to the Derby. He broke strong and led throughout every step of the race, winning by 1 1/4 lengths. Authentic went on to win the G1 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland before retiring to Spendthrift Farm, where he stands alongside his sire Into Mischief. Spendthrift Farm is the only farm in the world where you could see a Kentucky Derby winner and his sire!

2019 – Country House 

Country House’s journey to wear the iconic blanket of roses was a bit different than most Derby winners. In 2019, a unique situation took place in which the horse that crossed the finish line first was disqualified due to crossing paths with other contenders in the race. Country House closed from mid-pack to a strong second place finish, and was elevated to the victory after an extensive inquiry process. His victory in the race provided jockey Flavien Prat, trainer Bill Mott, and his ownership group with their first win in the Kentucky Derby.

Country House now stands as a stallion at historic Darby Dan Farm in Lexington, Kentucky, which offers private tours through Horse Country.

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. The first step in his journey to that historic accomplishment came in the 2018 Kentucky Derby, where he sat at the front of the pack throughout the race before driving away in the stretch to win by 2 1/2 lengths. Justify was purchased as a yearling at the Keeneland September Sale by Horse Country member WinStar Farm in partnership with China Horse Club, Head of Plains Partners LLC and Starlight Racing.

Justify now stands stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Versailles, Kentucky.

2017 – Always Dreaming

Always Dreaming came into the Kentucky Derby on a three race win streak, including a win in the G1 Florida Derby. Favored by the wagering public, Always Dreaming was kept in second place throughout the first half mile before Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez asked him to go and the pair cleared away to win by nearly three lengths.

Always Dreaming now stands stud at WinStar Farm in Versailles, Kentucky.

2016 – Nyquist

Nyquist was a precocious racehorse, with three grade one victories as a two year old including the G1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland. His dominance continued through the Derby prep races, and onto the first Saturday in May, so much so that he was the heavy favorite in the race. His favoritism was well deserved as he was among the early leaders in the race, eventually drawing away to win by 1 1/4 lengths. Check out our Champion Connections feature on Nyquist for more information about his career.

Nyquist is one of only two horses to win the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile and the Kentucky Derby, both of whom stand at Darley’s Jonabell Farm!

2015 – American Pharoah

American Pharoah entered the Kentucky Derby off of a four race win streak and proved his supporters were right with a one length victory on the first Saturday in May. ‘Pharoah’ went on to win the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes over the course of five weeks, becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years.

American Pharoah now stands stud at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud in Versailles, Kentucky, alongside fellow Triple Crown winner Justify.

2007 – Street Sense

Street Sense entered the Kentucky Derby off of a second place finish in the G1 Toyota Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland. The colt was the post time favorite, and spent a majority of the race at the back of the pack under jockey Calvin Borel. Street Sense began to pass horses on the far turn, and took over the lead from pace-setting Hard Spun in the stretch to win by 2 ¼ lengths. The Derby win was the second time his trainer Carl Nafzger trained a winner of the run for the roses, and the first and only Derby winner for his owner and breeder Jim Tafel.

Street Sense is one of only two horses to have won both the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile and Kentucky Derby, both he and Nyquist stand at Darley’s Jonabell Farm!

Derby Week Itineraries

Posted on April 15, 2024 - 3:51 pm by

The 150th Kentucky Derby is coming up soon, and Derby Week in Horse Country is the perfect time to experience the Kentucky Derby traditions of Horse Country -from the farms who bred and raised the Kentucky Derby winners of the past to the homes of Kentucky Derby winners in the present and the future Kentucky Derby dreams in foals across the Bluegrass.

Our membership is comprised of equine farms and facilities that participate in every stage of a horse’s life, from the nursery farms that foal and raise them, to stallion farms who stand top studs, aftercare facilities that retrain and rehome retired racehorses, as well as the feed mill and veterinary clinic of many champion equine athletes.

Our team of locals has put together a set of itineraries to help you make the most of your time in the Bluegrass for Derby Week 2024! These itineraries include suggestions of horse farm tours and places to eat, visit and explore in Horse Country. Follow the instructions or mix and match your favorite selections, either way, we know you’ll have a great time here in Horse Country.

Please note, the following itineraries are suggestions and are based on availability at the time of publishing. Tour availability is subject to change. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and are available for purchase at www.visithorsecountry.com or by calling 859-963-1004.

Next Generation of Champions Itinerary

Nursery farm tours are special for a number of reasons, from the up close and personal interactions with mares and foals to learning all about the process of breeding and raising Thoroughbreds. 

Champion Stallions Itinerary

Before the next Kentucky Derby winner is crowned, take a stroll down memory lane and see some of the top racehorses turned stallions that call Horse Country home.

Equine Care and Fitness

The Horse Capital of the World is home to a number of operations that provide top-notch care for horses of all disciplines, ensuring that equine athletes from lesson horses to Derby winners receive the utmost care. 

The World of Equine Athletes

The Horse Capital of the World is home to a number of operations that provide top-notch care for horses of all disciplines, ensuring that equine athletes from lesson horses to Derby winners receive the utmost care. 

100th Running of the Blue Grass Stakes Headlines Keeneland Opening Weekend

Posted on April 8, 2024 - 10:23 am by

Keeneland Opening Weekend is a welcome sign of spring each year in Central Kentucky. Fans flocked to the historic track to experience a great weekend of racing, including seven graded stakes, and celebrate the return of warm weather and sunny days to the Bluegrass state. 

Opening Weekend at Keeneland was headlined by the 100th running of the G1 Blue Grass Stakes, a leading prep race for the Kentucky Derby. Sierra Leone, a son of Three Chimneys Farm stallion Gun Runner, overcame a troubled early start to the race to win by a resounding 1 ½ lengths. The colt now sits atop the Kentucky Derby points standings, with just one prep race left on the Road to the Kentucky Derby. Sierra Leone was ridden by Tyler Gaffalione for trainer Chad Brown and owners Peter Brant, Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith, Westerberg and Brook Smith.

Leading sire Into Mischief, standing at Spendthrift Farm, was represented by a number of winners across the country over the weekend, including G1 Ashland Stakes winner Leslie’s Rose and G2 Beaumont Stakes winner Denim and Pearls. Leslie’s Rose, trained by Todd Pletcher for owner Whisper Hill Farm, is now a leading contender for the G1 Kentucky Oaks, run on the first Friday in May at Churchill Downs. 

Into Mischief’s son, and fellow Spendthrift Farm stallion Maximus Mischief, was represented by an impressive stakes winner in Glengarry, who won the Lafayette Stakes on Friday, April 5 with jockey Luis Saez aboard. Glengarry is trained by Doug Anderson for owners Aaron Kennedy, Toby Joseph and Doug Anderson.

Arzak picked up his second Keeneland stakes victory in the G2 Shakertown Stakes, a sprint race on the turf. The son of Not This Time, standing at Taylor Made Farm, was making his 2024 debut. The six year old horse is trained by Michael Trombetta for owner Sonata Stable, and had jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr. aboard for his win in the Shakertown.

Buchu, a daughter of Coolmore America’s Triple Crown-winning stallion Justify, scored her second graded stakes victory in the G2 Appalachian Stakes on Saturday, April 6 at Keeneland. The three year old filly is a homebred for her owners, Rigney Racing, LLC, and was born and raised at Denali Stud. Jockey Martin Garcia was aboard for trainer Philip Bauer.

Stonestreet Farm is a frequent visitor to the Keeneland winner’s circle, especially when it comes to turf sprint stakes races. Their English-bred colt Fandom (GB) returned to the races after a ten month layoff on Sunday with a late-running victory in the listed Palisades Stakes. Jockey Jose Ortiz was aboard for trainer Wesley Ward.

The Keeneland Spring Meet continues through Friday, April 26, with racing held daily (excluding Mondays and Tuesdays). Plus, all April Horse Country tour guests will receive a free Keeneland General Admission ticket for the members of their tour party to attend one day of the race meet! Check your email for more details, and if you have any questions or have not received your ticket(s), please reach out to our concierge team at info@visithorsecountry.com.

Sierra Leone wins the G1 Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland on April 6.
Buchu wins the G2 Appalachian Stakes at Keeneland on April 6.
Arzak and Irad Ortiz Jr. after winning the G2 Shakertown Stakes at Keeneland on April 6.
Fandom (GB) wins the Listed Palisades Stakes at Keeneland on April 7.

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