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Breeders’ Cup Champions in Horse Country

Posted on November 2, 2023 - 1:01 pm by Horse Country

The Breeders’ Cup World Championships will celebrate its fortieth anniversary this weekend, with the 2023 edition at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. From heavy favorites to huge longshots, repeat winners and more, the event consistently delivers memorable performances from some of the best horses the world has ever seen.

We’re lucky to have so many of these horses right here in Horse Country, allowing us to 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!

Two-time Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Tiznow at WinStar Farm.

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 winners Life is Good (2021 Dirt Mile) and Speightstown (2004 Sprint).

Hall of Famer Beholder, winner of three Breeders’ Cup races, at Spendthrift Farm

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).

Breeders’ Cup Classic and Triple Crown winner American Pharoah at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud.

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).

Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Essential Quality at Jonabell Farm,

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. 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).

Flightline wins the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Keeneland, after his victory in the race he retired to Lane’s End Farm.

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 Farm as a broodmare, and while Zenyatta is not featured on tours of the farm, you can see the many other famous horses who reside at the Versailles property. The Breeders’ Cup starpower at Lane’s End is evident in their stallion complex as well, which is home to champions including Accelerate (2018 Classic), City of Light (2018 Dirt Mile), Flightline (2022 Classic), Game Winner (2018 Juvenile), Liam’s Map (2015 Dirt Mile)

Two-time Breeders’ Cup winner Knicks Go at Taylor Made Farm.

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 Sure, the dam of Liam’s Map (2015 Dirt Mile).

Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Oscar Performance at Mill Ridge Farm.

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!

Meet the October Adoptable Horse of the Month

Posted on October 23, 2023 - 9:23 am by Horse Country

Welcome to our newest feature, Horse Country’s Adoptable Horse of the Month! Each month we will highlight an adoptable horse from one of our non-profit members, so make sure to tune in to find your perfect fit right here in Horse Country.

Let’s get to know Cover Me Up, an adoptable Thoroughbred at New Vocations in Lexington, Kentucky!

Cover Me Up, whose barn name is ‘Player’, is a 2019 Thoroughbred gelding best suited for an intermediate/advanced rider, as he is working hard to develop better balance and self-carriage. While he may still have youngster moments, Player has a sweet soul and is polite when being led or in the crossties.

Despite worrying people at the farm, Player’s favorite activity is playing flat in the field. He also enjoys spending time with his pasture buddy. He has healed from a previous soft tissue injury and is excited to excel in a new low to mid-level career! The gelding is eligible for the 2024 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover.

If you’re not currently in the position to adopt a horse, you can still learn about the mission and work of the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center – and meet some of their residents – on a tour of the facility. Tours are offered through October on Fridays and Saturdays at 1:30pm.

His adoption fee is on sale for $2,000. If you are interested, make sure to check out the New Vocations website for more information on how to inquire about adopting!

If you’re not currently in the position to adopt a horse, you can still learn about the mission and work of New Vocations – and meet some of their residents – on a tour of the facility. Tours are offered year-round, with public tours currently available at 1pm on Wednesdays and Fridays, and private tours available to request at various times Monday through Friday.

Visit the New Vocations

Horse Country is proud to partner with multiple 501(c)3 non-profit members whose mission is to support equines through adoption or sanctuary. Your ticket purchase to any of these members (Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, New Vocations, Secretariat Center, Second Stride, TRF at Chestnut Hall) supports the mission of the organization.

Top Five Things to Experience in Horse Country this October

Posted on October 5, 2023 - 1:23 pm by Horse Country

There’s so much to fall in love with this time of year in Horse Country! Racing at Keeneland, unique experiences and a showcase of off the track Thoroughbreds are just a few of the things that make October a special time in Central Kentucky. Check out our top five can’t miss experiences for this month!

#1 Keeneland

October is synonymous with the Keeneland race meet, which will take place Oct. 6 – 28. Racing kicks off on Friday, Oct. 6 and will take place Wednesday – Sunday throughout the rest of the month. First post is around 1 pm each day, and all tickets (including general admission) must be purchased in advance of your arrival.

Horses take to the track daily from 5:30am – 10 am for morning training, which is open to the public year-round. During morning workouts you might see horses jogging, galloping, breezing or schooling in the paddock. There’s a variety of ways that horses prepare for their future races, and you’ll get a front row seat to all of the action.

On Saturdays in October, Keeneland will also host Sunrise Trackside, an event for families to experience the sights and sounds of morning workouts.From 8am – 10am, there will be activities for children including face painting, games, photo ops and a meet and greet with Buckles, the Keeneland mascot! Mini tours will also be available during Sunrise Trackside, starting from the welcome stand near the paddock.

Looking for a unique way to experience the Keeneland race meet? There are a few different ways to tour Keeneland, all of which can be found here.

#2 The Glory of Spendthrift Farm Experience

Join us for the second annual Glory of Spendthrift Farm Experience on October 18th at 12pm. Guests will celebrate the best of modern day Spendthrift Farm and dive into its glorious past with guest tour guides John Williams, former farm manager, and Mary Perdue, author of Landaluce.

This exciting opportunity includes two hours of exploring the iconic ‘Nashua Motel’ stallion complex’s past and present occupants, a presentation and book signing, and a visit to the Spendthrift’s B. Wayne Hughes Visitor Center, itself a showcase of Spendthrift history and achievements.

Williams, who managed Spendthrift when it was home to over 40 stallions including Seattle Slew, Affirmed and Nashua, will offer behind the scenes glimpses into the superstar horses who helped Spendthrift to become one of the most prestigious breeding farms in the world.

Perdue, author of 2022 Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award finalist “Landaluce: The Story of Seattle Slew’s First Champion,” will share her research into the farm’s history, including its colorful founder Leslie Combs, as well as its fabled broodmares, and many Spendthrift-bred champions.

Tickets can be purchased for this event by clicking here.

#3 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover

The Thoroughbred Makeover is a multi-day horse show and symposium showcasing recently retired ex-racehorses who have transitioned into new careers as riding horses. The event takes place October 11 – 14 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, with the Finale and crowning of the Thoroughbred Makeover Champion taking place on Saturday, October 14.

The Thoroughbred Makeover displays the versatility of the Thoroughbred horse, with hundreds of horses competing in a variety of disciplines including show jumping, eventing, polo, ranch work, barrel racing and more.

Some of our members will be participating in the ‘ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Barn’, where potential adopters can meet and try adoptable Thoroughbreds. The Kentucky Equine Adoption Center and Second Stride will both have a group of horses in the ‘Adoption Barn’, and we’ll be rooting on graduates of both of these facilities, as well as New Vocations and the Secretariat Center, throughout the competition!

For more information on the Thoroughbred Makeover, please visit the Retired Racehorse Project website here.

#4 Horse Farm Tours

We couldn’t leave off horse farm tours when compiling our favorite experiences coming up this October! Our members are hosting a wide array of tours ranging from hands-on experiences with mares and young horses, in depth looks at equine care, behind the scenes tours of stallion farms and more.

Not sure where to start? Our best recommendation is to visit the Book Your Tour page to get started. From there, tours are broken down into categories as well as tours by location. If you’re still having a hard time choosing which one to book, you can always give our concierge team a call at (859) 963-1004 or email us at info@visithorsecountry.com. Our dedicated team of local experts will help find a tour best suited for your group.

#5 The Heart of the Turf: Racing’s Black Pioneers Exhibit at the Keeneland Library

The Keeneland Library is a wealth of information for lovers of the Thoroughbred – with resources spanning centuries of the sport of horse racing. Their current exhibit, the Heart of the Turf: Racing’s Black Pioneers highlights the lives and careers of 80 African American horsemen and women from the mid-1800’s to present day. Photographs, artwork, video interviews and more bring to life the featured horsemen and women, preserving and amplifying their legacy and impact on Thoroughbred racing as we know it.

The exhibit runs through December 8 at the Keeneland Library, located on the grounds of Keeneland. The Library is open to the public from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Meet the September Adoptable Horse of the Month

Posted on September 27, 2023 - 10:48 am by Horse Country

Let’s get to know Teelfa, an adoptable resident of the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center in Lexington, Kentucky!

Teelfa is looking for her new forever home! She is a 12 year old Thoroughbred mare who made 26 starts on the track and earned $151,307! After her racing career, she retired as a broodmare, which makes her eligible for the broodmare division for the 2023 Thoroughbred Makeover.

Teelfa is forward and would need a more experienced rider; however, she is eager to please! She has excelled in the walk and trot and would be most successful in a flat-only home.

Her adoption fee is $1,500. If you are interested, make sure to check out the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center website for more information on how to inquire about adopting.

Supporters can also make a donation to the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center or learn more about volunteering on their website.

Visit the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center

Find Your Perfect Fit with our Adoptable Horse of the Month

Posted on August 16, 2023 - 4:21 pm by Horse Country

Let’s get to know Good Dreams, an adoptable resident of the Secretariat Center in Lexington.

Good Dreams, or Bueno, is looking for his new forever home! Good Dreams is a son of Quality Road out of the New Zealand-bred mare Darci’s Dream, who never made a start at the racetrack. Bueno is a 2019 Thoroughbred gelding that is best suited for a lowkey home, as his favorite activities include light flat work, trail rides, and sometimes little jumps! However, Bueno has recently discovered his love of being ridden western and has even been working on neck reining.

Bueno has a brave personality; however, he is still green and would need a confident rider. He is the boss of his field and enjoys having pasture buddies that will play with him, but he is also great outside by himself.

His adoption fee is $3,500. If you are interested, make sure to check out the Secretariat Center website for more information on how to inquire about adopting.

If you’re interested in learning more about how the Secretariat Center retrains and rehomes retired Thoroughbred racehorse, but maybe not in the position to adopt a horse, we highly recommend visiting on a Horse Country tour.

Five Things to do in Paris, Kentucky

Posted on August 9, 2023 - 1:06 pm by Horse Country

Known for its horses and history, Paris Kentucky is a must see for visitors traveling to the Bluegrass State.

Paris is located less than twenty miles from Lexington, and the commute down the famed Paris Pike is one of the most scenic drives in Central Kentucky, with horse farms lining both sides of the road. From horse farms to historical sites and locally sourced food to a great downtown area, we’ve put together our top five things to see and enjoy in Paris and Bourbon County.

Visit a Horse Farm
- Two Horse Country members call Bourbon County home – Denali Stud and Runnymede Farm. Both farms are nurseries, and provide young horses with a strong foundation for their future from the time they are born until they head off to the sales ring or racetrack.
- Runnymede Farm is the oldest continuously operated Thoroughbred farm in the state of Kentucky. The farm has been passed down through generations of the Clay family, and raises mares and foals in the heart of Bourbon County. Recent champions raised at the farm include Kentucky Derby winner Mage and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf winner Lady Eli. Runnymede is a great stop for history lovers as well, as the farm is home to a number of historic buildings including Cooper’s Run Baptist Church, which was built in 1803 and is one of the oldest churches in Kentucky.
- Denali Stud is a family owned and operated nursery farm, just down the road from Runnymede Farm and downtown Paris. Denali Stud was founded by former jockey Craig Bandoroff and focuses on foaling and raising young horses, many of which go on to be sold through the Denali consignment at major Thoroughbred sales. The farm has raised and/or sold such superstars as Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom, Breeders’ Cup Champion Malathaat and more, and is the home of Hall of Fame racemare Serena’s Song.
Immerse Yourself in Local History
- Whether you’re a history buff or exclusively interested in horsey-history, Paris is a great place to explore. For true history fans, Bourbon County is home to a number of historic sites dating back to the early days of the United States. Over two dozen historical markers are located in Paris + Bourbon County, which can be found by checking out this self guided tour from the Kentucky Historical Society. If you’re more of an equine history aficionado, the Bourbon County Horse Walk of Fame has to be on your itinerary. Throughout downtown Paris are horse shoes and nameplates featuring some of the best horses to live in Bourbon County at some point in their lives. Some horses of interest are Hall of Famer Serena’s Song (Denali Stud), Breeders’ Cup winner Midshipman (Jonabell Farm) and of course, Triple Crown winner Secretariat.
Take a Stroll Through Downtown Paris
- Downtown Paris is the perfect place to get a taste of small town Southern hospitality – with a hint of Parisian flair of course (here’s to you, Mini Eiffel Tower) Shops and restaurants with locally sourced products can be found throughout the historic downtown district. A few of our favorite stops include Loch Lea Antiques, Lil’s Coffee Shop and the Paris/Bourbon County Farmers Market. While you’re walking along main street, be sure to look down occasionally to see the Bourbon County Horse Walk of Fame.
Eat Locally
- One thing you need to know about Kentucky is that we take local food seriously here, and thanks to a strong agriculture industry, lots of restaurants use locally sourced ingredients from area farms. Paris has two restaurants in particular that are well known for the tasty Kentucky fare. Trackside at the Depot is located just outside of downtown Paris in the historic Paris train depot, and is well known for its food and selection of bourbon. Windy Corner Market is located a bit south of Paris, but the food and views are more than worth a short drive.
Experience the Bourbon Trail
- When visiting Bourbon County, a distillery tour or at least a few sips of some Kentucky Bourbon should be on your itinerary. Hartfield and Company was the first distillery to open in Bourbon County after Prohibition forced the closure of the industry in 1919. This craft distillery offers tours that give an up-close look at how bourbon is made, as well as the history of their company and Bourbon County as a whole. Even if bourbon isn’t your drink of choice, distillery tours provide unique insight into the process of creating top notch beverages and often include local lore and tales about Kentucky’s history.

Celebrate BreyerFest in Horse Country

Posted on July 13, 2023 - 4:13 pm by Horse Country

We’re so excited to be joining the BreyerFest celebration this weekend at the Kentucky Horse Park! Be sure to stop by our booth with Amplify Horse Racing in Celebration Park, where we will be talking about all things horses and horse racing – plus running some giveaways!

While you’re in town, we highly recommend visiting one of our member locations to get a behind the scenes look at the equine industry. Whether you’re interested in seeing stallions or a mares and foals, morning training or Thoroughbred aftercare, we have a variety of tour options for every interest level.

Horse Country is even home to (or has a connection with) some of the famed horses who have been honored with Breyer models. You might even see some of these horses when you join one of our tours! Among our favorites are Afleet Alex, American Pharoah, Affirmed, Cozmic One, Harley, Justify, Rachel Alexandra, Tiz the Law and Zenyatta. If you’re just a fan of the Thoroughbred breed, you can find those here as well.

Available Tours

Friday

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. – Denali Stud, Paris | Meet mares & foals

10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Jonabell Farm, Lexington | Meet champion stallions

10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Gainsborough Farm, Versailles | Meet mares & foals

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Spy Coast Farm, Lexington | Dive into the world of sport horses

11 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Secretariat Center, Lexington | Learn all about Thoroughbred aftercare

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Mill Ridge Farm, Lexington | Meet mares, foals and stallions

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – New Vocations, Lexington | Learn all about Thoroughbred aftercare

2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Taylor Made Farm, Nicholasville | Meet mares, foals and stallions

2:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Mill Ridge Farm, Lexington | Meet mares, foals and stallions

2 p.m. – 3 p.m. – Stonestreet Farm, Lexington | Meet mares & foals

Saturday

8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. – Morning Works Tour, Lexington | Watch morning training at Keeneland

9 a.m. – 10 a.m. – Morning Works Tour, Lexington | Watch morning training at Keeneland

10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Gainsborough Farm, Versailles | Meet mares & foals

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Spy Coast Farm, Lexington | Dive into the world of sport horses

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Taylor Made Farm, Nicholasville | Meet mares, foals and stallions

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Mill Ridge Farm, Lexington | Meet mares, foals and stallions

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. – Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, Nicholasville | Kentucky’s only all-breed adoption center

2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Gainsborough Farm, Versailles | Meet mares & foals

2:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Mill Ridge Farm, Lexington | Meet mares, foals and stallions

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Stonestreet Farm, Lexington | Meet mares & foals

Sunday

10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Jonabell Farm, Lexington | Meet champion stallions

10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Gainsborough Farm, Versailles | Meet mares & foals

2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Gainsborough Farm, Versailles | Meet mares & foals

Spotlight on Sport Horse, Adoption, and Aftercare Facilities

Posted on July 10, 2023 - 4:00 pm by Horse Country

Kentucky is sort of the Disney World of the horse industry, after all we aren’t called the Horse Capital of the World for nothing. From the Kentucky Derby to the Land Rover Three Day Event to the World Equestrian Games, some of the biggest equestrian events come to Kentucky, and with that, people come from all over the world to see these events. To put it into perspective, around 150,000 people attended the Kentucky Derby in 2023, around 25,000 people attended the 2023 Land Rover Three Day Event, and in 2010 the Kentucky Horse Park hosted 520,000 spectators for the World Equestrian Games.

Sport Horses

One frequently asked question is once a horse is done competing in top level show jumping, eventing, dressage or racing, what do they do? Here in Horse Country, you can learn all about what top level equestrian athletes do after they are finished with one career and transition to another. One tour that teaches you the many facets of the sport horse breeding and competition industry is Spy Coast Farm. During the tour, you will get to see their whole operation in Lexington, Kentucky, including the Rehabilitation and Fitness Center, Young Horse Development Training Center, Stallion Barn, and Mare and Foal Center. They differ from the Thoroughbred breeding industry in various ways, two standouts are in the breeding shed and training center. Sport horses use artificial insemination (abbreviated as AI) and embryo transfer because a handful of the stallions and mares that Spy Coast have the breeding rights to are still competing. Isn’t that incredible? While training these incredible athletes, many sport horse trainers wait until they are around 3 or 4 years old to put them into work, since warmbloods grow a bit slower than Thoroughbreds, which typically begin racing as two year old’s. Did you know the career of a sport horse can last into their late twenties? Pretty astounding! Spy Coast Grand Tour Public Tours offered Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 10:30am

Spy Coast Farm in Lexington, KY is one of the leading sport horse breeding and training facilities in the country.

Aftercare + Adoption

The thoroughbred industry has become more accessible to people all over the world due to aftercare and adoption centers. They provide a temporary home for horses who are not successful on the racetrack, were injured, or abandoned. All of our members share the same goal, which is to provide a safe place for horses.

New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program is a nonprofit who takes in retired racehorses from the track who could not be breeding stallions or broodmares. At their barns around the nation, they rehab, retrain, and rehome standardbreds and thoroughbreds. For their property in Lexington, Kentucky, they house mostly thoroughbreds. They do extensive research on the potential new owner and require a vet and two personal references to ensure horses are placed in the best possible homes. Definitely an incredible tour for those interested in the life of racehorses after the track.

New Vocations: Public Tours offered Wednesday and Friday at 1pm

Second Stride also strives to provide a new career for retired racehorses, broodmares, or thoroughbreds that are injured and need rehabilitation. This nonprofit organization will teach you about the process of retraining and preparing them to be riding or companion horses. They have three Thoroughbred Racing ambassadors on the farm Triple Crown contestant General A Rod, million dollar earner Hawaakom, and Churchill Downs Racing Club’s star runner Warrior’s Club. You will get to meet them and the horses up for adoption on the tour!

Second Stride: Public Tours offered Monday through Friday at 1pm and Saturday at 11am.

The Secretariat Center is another off-the-track thoroughbred rehoming operation in Lexington, Kentucky whose mission is to advocate for the thoroughbred and give them the best chance to start a new career after their racing careers have ended. They have miniature horse ambassadors on the farm who you will fall in love with! Located right in the heart of Horse Country at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky.

Secretariat Center: Public Tours offered on Thursday and Friday at 11am.

The Kentucky Equine Adoption Center is a temporary safe haven for horses of all ages, disciplines, and breeds. This tour will take you through the process of adopting a horse, the care these horses need after coming from various situations, and making sure they go to a good home once they are ready to be adopted. Come learn about their stories and maybe become a part of it! Located in Nicholasville, Kentucky.

Kentucky Equine Adoption Center: Public Tours offered Friday and Saturday at 1:30pm.

New Vocations, a facility that focuses on rehabilitating, retraining and rehoming retired racehorses in Lexington, KY.

Horse Country’s newest member, Second Stride, focuses on providing training for retired racehorses, broodmares and Thoroughbreds who didn’t make it to the track, located in Prospect, KY.

Located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, the Secretariat Center retrains and rehomes Thoroughbreds into a variety of second careers.

The Kentucky Equine Adoption Center in Nicholasville is Kentucky’s only all breed equine adoption center, providing training and care to a variety of horses.

Aftercare Sanctuary

A lot of the horses who are injured and need rehabilitation or looking for a new career can be paired with a new home, but some just need to be horses. At our aftercare sanctuary, they provide the care and love for their horses where they will have a permanent home for the rest of their lives. The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation at Chestnut Hall is an oasis for thoroughbreds to live out the rest of their days just to be horses. They have around a dozen horses on their farm that you can pet and learn about their stories. This is also home to the historical farmhouse on sight with gorgeous views of the farm and horses. Located in Prospect, Kentucky, a 30 minute drive from Downtown Louisville.

TRF at Chestnut Hall: Public Tours offered Monday through Sunday at 10am.

TRF at Chestnut Hall, a sanctuary farm for retired Thoroughbred racehorses located in Prospect, KY.

Second Stride joins Horse Country, Inc. Tour Program

Posted on July 7, 2023 - 4:01 pm by Horse Country

Horse Country has announced a new partnership with Second Stride. The Thoroughbred aftercare organization will begin offering tours through Horse Country in July.

“We’re thrilled to have Second Stride join Horse Country and begin offering tours this month,” said Hallie Hardy, Executive Director of Horse Country. “Our member farms and supporting businesses, like Second Stride, are dedicated to connecting people to the horse, land and people of Kentucky’s Horse Country. Through Horse Country’s Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance accredited partners, our industry can show firsthand the care that is given to horses retiring from the racetrack as they learn new skills and find new homes. It’s an incredibly important piece of our industry’s story, and we’re proud at Horse Country to connect people to these important non-profit organizations.”

“Second Stride is excited to partner with Horse Country to expand our educational reach to the community and beyond” said Kim Smith, Founder and Executive Director of Second Stride. “The Chorleywood location is dedicated to partnership involvement and outreach as well as transitioning the state icon, the Thoroughbred, safely into fresh starts. We look forward to sharing our success stories and program thanks to Horse Country to an even broader audience beyond the current work our volunteers and partnerships are accomplishing.”

“What Second Stride offers is a fresh start — no matter the age or capacity of a thoroughbred, we give them what they need to to begin their next great phase. Rolling in a lush grass field, radiographs to assess readiness to train, summer baths by volunteers, jumping that first crossrail, resting their muzzle on the shoulder of a child during a tour — all stages along the way of a racehorse succeeding in a new career and life.”

Tours of Second Stride will be offered six days a week, with both public and private tour options available, beginning on July 10. Guests will learn about the retraining and rehoming process and meet current trainees, as well as interact with the Thoroughbred ambassadors that reside at the farm, including Kentucky Derby contender General A Rod, graded stakes winner Warrior’s Club and million dollar winner Hawaakom. Tours can be booked online at visithorsecountry.com/second-stride or by calling Horse Country at 859-963-1004.

Second Stride joins the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center, New Vocations, Secretariat Center and TRF at Chestnut Hall as non-profit members of Horse Country. These members serve Thoroughbreds and other equine breeds through retraining, rehoming or providing lifetime sanctuary.

A kickoff event is scheduled for July 17th at the Prospect, Kentucky farm, and those interested in attending may reach out to info@visithorsecountry.com for more information.

About Horse Country: Since 2015, Horse Country connects guests to tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look into Kentucky’s equine industry. The not-for-profit, collaborative membership organization comprises leading stallion farms, nursery farms, aftercare facilities, veterinary clinics, a racetrack and other equine attractions in Kentucky. Currently, 24 active touring members are a part of Horse Country. Tickets can be booked directly online at www.visithorsecountry.com.

About Second Stride: Second Stride is a leading national equine adoption program and a trusted partner within the thoroughbred racing industry. We serve the thoroughbreds and people who make the sport of horse racing possible: trainers, owners, partnership managers, handicappers, racing fans, and the adopters who provide forever homes for these horses after they retire. We also serve non-racing thoroughbreds in need including broodmares and unable-to-race bloodstock.

The Horse Country Summer Bucket List

Posted on June 21, 2023 - 10:06 am by Horse Country

Announcing the Horse Country Summer Bucket List!

One of the best parts about our slice of paradise here in Kentucky is that there is so much to do along with horse farm tours. We encourage all guests to check out the local communities that our members call home, and our Summer Bucket List is a great way to keep track of some fun things to check out while you are here in the Bluegrass.

Guests who complete at least five items from our summer bucket list and post about those items will receive a Horse Country t-shirt! See below for all terms and conditions for the contest.

Feel free to download the list, or check out the written list below.

SUMMER BUCKET LIST

See a Kentucky Derby winner

A bucket list item for anyone, horse racing fan or not! Here in Horse Country we are lucky to be the home of a number of Kentucky Derby winners, and our members have opened their gates to welcome guests and meet these champions. The following farms are home to Kentucky Derby winners: Coolmore at Ashford Stud (American Pharoah, 2015 and Justify, 2018), Darby Dan Farm (Country House, 2019), Jonabell Farm (Street Sense, 2007 and Nyquist, 2016), Spendthrift Farm (Authentic, 2020) and WinStar Farm (Always Dreaming, 2017).

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.

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. 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 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. Even if you don’t complete the whole list, we would still love to see how you are spending your summertime in Horse Country, and hope that you will check out some of the activities we have suggested.

See below for the terms & conditions for the giveaway.

Guests who complete at least five of the ten items listed on our ‘Summer Bucket List’ graphic and submit photo proof are eligible to receive a piece of Horse Country apparel.
Please submit proof by posting photos on social media of each bucket list item, tagging Horse Country and using the hashtag #VisitHorseCountry. For example, in the caption or comment of your post say ‘Enjoying my shuttle tour! #VisitHorseCountry @VisitHorseCountry”.
Once you finish the Bucket List, email us at info@visithorsecountry.com and we will check your posts. If all items have been completed we will send a Horse Country t-shirt your way!
Contest begins June 8th at 8am ET and ends on August 31 at 12:59pm ET.
One entry will be accepted per guest.
Please be safe and mindful of your surroundings when taking any photos, and follow the direction of your tour guide when applicable. All state and local laws apply.
Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are in no way affiliated with this giveaway.
This contest is hosted and solely affiliated with Horse Country.