Farms – Page 3 – Visit Horse Country

3 Things to Know About Equestricon 2018

Posted on July 19, 2018 - 4:34 pm by Horse Country

1. It’s back – and it’s coming to Breeders’ Cup!

2. Horse Country Row is back!

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!

3. There’s an Instagram contest (two days only, July 19-20)

Meet a Star of Foal Patrol at Claiborne Farm!

Posted on July 16, 2018 - 7:26 pm by Horse Country

[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

Posted on July 2, 2018 - 1:51 pm by Horse Country

[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

Posted on June 25, 2018 - 3:13 pm by Horse Country

[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

Posted on June 15, 2018 - 5:38 pm by Horse Country

[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 info@visithorsecountry.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Jet-setting Justify

Posted on May 21, 2018 - 1:51 pm by Horse Country

[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 10^th 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 30^th 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?

Posted on May 10, 2018 - 6:51 pm by Horse Country

[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]

4 Things to do in Horse Country

Posted on April 4, 2018 - 3:00 pm by Horse Country

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

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

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.

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