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The 6 Best Horse Farm Tours in Lexington, Kentucky

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Lexington, Kentucky, is known for two things: whiskey and horses. Often referred to as the Horse Capital of the World, the city is home to more than 400 horse farms and the famous Keeneland Race Course (featured in several movies). It has bred more Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown winners than anywhere else in the world. Race fans and equestrians alike flock to Lexington to see how these horses live and train. With so many venues to interact with these horses, it can be hard to decide where to start. Here is your go-to roundup of Lexington, Kentucky's best horse farm tours.

Jonabell Farm

Courtesy of Jonabell Farm

Jonabell Farm, home to HH Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin operation, is one of the most successful breeding sites globally, producing more than 200 stakes-winning racehorses. This tour takes guests through the history and current-day practices of Jonabell, as well as an up-close viewing of their current stallions. A shuttle tour is also available, featuring a scenic drive over Jonabells’ 800 acres of paddocks to see the mares and foals on the farm.

Three Chimneys Farm

Three Chimneys is one of the most respected stud farms in the business. This tour takes guests through the palatial stables and allows for some facetime with their current horses. The tour continues on to walk visitors through the breeding process and all safety measures that Three Chimneys takes to ensure the health and safety of these prestigious horses. It concludes with a walk around the green paddocks where the horses enjoy acres of land. This scenic farm is an excellent stop for newbies or lifelong fans of the sport. 

Claiborne Farm

Courtesy of Claiborne Farm

This 109-year-old farm is often cited as the "Horse Capital of the World." Claiborne Farm boasts 3,000 acres for its prized stallions to run and has been home to 300 sires of champions, 10 Kentucky Derby, and six Triple Crown winners. This tour lets guests view the breeding shed and current horses that call Claiborne home and ends with viewing the famous Secretariat's gravesite. This is a can't-miss for any horse racing fan—in fact, the Queen of England has visited twice!  

Denali Stud

Courtesy of Denali Stud Farm

Denali Stud is a world-renowned horse farm that has trained a litany of winning horses and has sold more than $475 million worth of horses since 1990. A Denali tour will take guests through their impressive history and current breeding and training practices. In the spring, guests can get up close and personal with the mares and foals, and on lucky days guests have been able to watch foals be born!

New Vocations

Courtesy of New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program

Get a unique view of what happens after the racing stops. New Vocations is the oldest and largest racehorse adoption program in the United States. Focusing on rehabilitation, retraining, and rehoming, this organization saves retired racehorses from an otherwise uncertain future and promotes their use as riding horses, sport horses, or simply great companions. Working with more than 500 horses a year, New Vocations has managed to rehome more than 7,500 horses since its inception in 1992.

While not a farm tour, Keeneland is an absolute must for any equestrian fan visiting Lexington. The famous racetrack is also the largest thoroughbred sale site globally and offers several different tours that take guests behind the scenes of both the racing and sales sides. The horses' morning workouts are free and open to the public, and guests interested in betting during a race can talk to the newly instituted “bet-ologists” who walk newcomers through the wagering process.

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Explore the Horse Capital of the World

There’s simply no better place to get up close and personal with horses, thanks to Lexington’s abundance of farms and by extension, horse farm tours. Each tour is different, with some being working farms, others medical centers to teach you how horses are cared for, and some even allow you to meet racing legends of past and present.

Plan A Tour

There are about 450 horse farms in the Bluegrass region—150 in Fayette County alone—each with something unique to offer. Plan a horse farm experience that fits your style!

Book Directly With A Farm

If you’re more of an independent traveler, booking tours yourself is still a possibility! These farms, which range from Thoroughbred showplaces to smaller farms with different breeds of horses, gladly welcome individual visitors.

Claiborne Farm

Megson farms, old friends at dream chase farm, our mims retirement haven.

Visit Horse Country is the region’s top agency for connecting guests with the right farm and immersive experience for them.

Customize With Tour Providers

With a private tour, you can customize based on what you want to experience! Companies can chauffeur your small group around or can provide a step-on for a larger group—either way, you’ll get a VIP experience on world-class horse farms.

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Thoroughbred Heritage Horse Farm Tours

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Half-Day Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour in Kentucky

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Thoroughbred Heritage Horse Farm Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Tours at Jonabell Farm

Take a tour of the stallion complex at Jonabell Farm in Lexington, Kentucky, one of the leading horse farms in the USA. Jonabell is the American headquarters of Sheikh Mohammed’s global Godolphin  operation and home to the Darley thoroughbred stallions in the United States.

Tours of Jonabell Farm are booked through Visit Horse Country . The tour begins at the farm office where you will learn about the history of Jonabell Farm as well as the global scope of Godolphin, the international thoroughbred breeding and racing operation founded by Sheikh Mohammed, ruler of Dubai. We’ll then head outside for a walking tour of the stallion complex. Our current roster of stallions includes two-time Breeders’ Cup winner and Horse of the Year Cody’s Wish , Kentucky Derby winners Nyquist  and Street Sense , Belmont Stakes winner Essential Quality , multiple G1 winners  Frosted  and Maxfield , and leading sire  Medaglia d’Oro . We'll also walk through the breeding shed and visit the gravesite of 1978 Triple Crown winner Affirmed . Please note, we are unable to allow petting or feeding of the stallions during the tour.

To book a tour:

Tours of Jonabell Farm, as well as tours of our nearby mare and foal division at Gainsborough Farm , can be booked through Visit Horse Country by clicking the buttons below or by calling 859-963-1004 .

Additional dates and times may be available upon request for private groups, and we are happy to provide complimentary tours for schools and educational groups. Please contact Visit Horse Country at [email protected] or 859-963-1004 with group tour requests.

Jonabell Farm is happy to open its gates to horseracing fans and enthusiasts, but please remember that Jonabell is a privately-owned, working thoroughbred horse farm so we schedule tours around the routines of our horses and employees.

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Experience a Part of History

Visit claiborne.

Come see and learn for yourself why Claiborne is known as one of the most iconic Thoroughbred breeding farms in Kentucky’s Horse Country! Your tour will include a fascinating overview of Claiborne’s storied history, including its involvement with Triple Crown winner Secretariat. See where the legend is buried, and walk the grounds where many other famous racehorses called home. Thousands of guests have had the opportunity to view our traditional breeding shed, which has produced more than 80 champions. Book your tour today and prepare to take home a piece of history!

VOTED #1 HORSE FARM!

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THE FARM POST

Dubai world cup highlights global influence of claiborne ..., kentucky oaks contender lemon muffin is the newest graded..., claiborne bloodlines featured at keeneland january sale.

We offer guided tours 7 days* a week. On our traditional walking stallion tour, visitors will see our stallions, the breeding shed, and the cemetery. On our seasonal shuttle tour (April - October), visitors will see our broodmare and foaling division. During the months of January and February, we offer tours 5 days a week (no tours on Tuesdays or Wednesdays). We also offer private tours at noon. Since Claiborne Farm is a private working farm, tours are by appointment only and your promptness is greatly appreciated. Please plan to check in at our Visitor Center AT LEAST 5 minutes before your tour time.

Tours are Closed the Following Dates this Year:

EVERY TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY  

NEW YEAR   Mon, 1/1/24 through Wed, 1/3/24

EASTER   Sun, 3/31/24

MEMORIAL DAY   Mon, 5/27/24

JULY 4TH   Thu, 7/4/24

LABOR DAY   Mon, 9/2/24

KEENELAND SEPT SALE   Mon, 9/9/24 through Sun, 9/15/24

KEENELAND NOV SALE   Mon, 11/4/24 through Sun, 11/10/24

THANKSGIVING   Thurs, 11/28/24

CHRISTMAS - NEW YEAR   Sun, 12/22/24 through Thu, 1/2/25

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How much does it cost, can children come, when do you have tours, is there a gift shop, can i request to see certain stallions, i’m driving by and just want to see the cemetery, do the grooms expect a tip, are there places to sit down along the tour, what is your cancellation policy (visit claiborne farm & all-farm shuttle tour), how long does the tour last, how far in advance do you need a reservation, can i see more of the farm, is the tour handicap friendly, how do i make a reservation, where do i go once i get to the farm, your times don’t work for me. can i come..., do you all accept special groups, is there a public restroom, do you offer any private tours of the farm, what is your cancellation policy (private stallion tour).

703 Winchester Road Paris, KY 40361

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Tour Spendthrift Farm

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Book your tour: https://visithorsecountry.com/spendthrift-farm/

All tours are booked via Horse Country

Spendthrift Farm welcomes you to immerse yourself in the historical culture of Thoroughbred breeding. Sitting on over 1,200 acres, we are the home to champion horses including 2020 Horse of the Year & Kentucky Derby winner AUTHENTIC, North America's two-time reigning #1 General Sire INTO MISCHIEF, Breeders' Cup Classic winner & Champion VINO ROSSO, Breeders' Cup Sprint winner & Champion MITOLE, 4-time champion mare BEHOLDER, 2-time champion mare MONOMOY GIRL, and more!

We can't wait to see you!

Both private & public tours are available.

The new B. Wayne Hughes Visitors Center is coming 2022! Read more here

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Browse our offerings by the specific experience you’re looking for, location, category, or check out real reviews to see what others recommend. Still not sure? Let us help.

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Book your behind-the-scenes experience at one of our 20+ member locations.

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A peek into Horse Country

Just some of the sights you may see while on your behind the scenes experience…

What do our guests have to say about Horse Country?

Real reviews. Straight from the horse’s mouth.

Jonabell Farm

Very insightful tour and our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable...beautiful farm with magnificent horses. We learned a lot about racing and stallions beyond what we expected. Loved it!

John - Check out the tour they attended!

Coolmore at Ashford Stud

We had a great time on the tour visiting with the stallions! Our guide was plesant and provided the group with many interesting facts about the farm. A must see for racing fans to see the stallions up close.

Doreen - Check out the tour they attended!

Gainesway Farm

Absolutely fabulous horse farm. Beauty everywhere. Great guided tour. TAPIT—need I say anymore.

Blair - Check out the tour they attended!

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute

Well organized and knowledgeable staff. The tour was excellent and the technology is top notch. Very informative especially after a 30 year absence from the horse industry.

Shawn - Check out the tour they attended!

Hallway Feeds

Excellent tour! Very informative and up close. Guides/employees are very passionate about the horse food industry.

Richard - Check out the tour they attended!

Secretariat Center

This is a great facility doing great things in providing a soft place for racehorses to land and learn a new career!! The tour is wonderful and even hands on!!

Mary - Check out the tour they attended!

Spendthrift Farm

The tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable, and it was great to see the horses up close and learn the history of the farm. Loved seeing the breeding shed!

Autumn - Check out the tour they attended!

Spy Coast Farm

Lisa was a great guide. There was a lot of different things to see at Spy Coast, rehab, riders working horses, jumping, stallions, mares with foals, and even more.

Sandra - Check out the tour they attended!

New Vocations

It was wonderful to hear the “story” of New Vocations. The passion, mission and vision show a true dedication to these amazing horses.

Leslie - Check out the tour they attended!

Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital

The staff was so friendly! We learned a lot on the driving tour and enjoyed seeing where everything takes place. I would definitely come back!

Korrie - Check out the tour they attended!

Airdrie Stud

We got to see all the Stallions up close & personal, followed by a lovely tour of the property to see the foals & mares.

Michael - Check out the tour they attended!

Lane’s End Farm

The beauty of the farm, the fantastic tour, and of course seeing and petting the amazing animals. Our tour guide was super knowledgeable and friendly. It was a true Kentucky only experience

Diane - Check out the tour they attended!

Still need help?

Here’s a few more resources to help you make the most of your time in Horse Country.

The 22 Best Things To Do In Lexington, Kentucky

Whether you go for the bourbon trail, horse country, or a city getaway, Lexington is perfectly placed.

It's easy to overlook Lexington at first, in the shadow of Louisville, which gets most of the attention thanks to the  Kentucky Derby and Whiskey Row. Yet, Lexington quietly enjoys the spoils of being a thriving town set in the ecologically stunning Kentucky landscape. From  bourbon distilleries  and horse racing to breezy Bluegrass hills and a vibrant downtown, you're never short on places to explore and local businesses to duck into. Lexington is perfectly placed for a getaway with so many activities to put on your list, no matter if you go during the blooming spring, colorful autumn, or snowy winter.

 Here are the best things to do on your next trip to Lexington, Kentucky.

Explore Horse Country

Tour keeneland race track.

Dubbed a National Historic Landmark, Keeneland has helped keep the tradition of Thoroughbred racing alive for over eight decades. Moreover, the lush grounds are expertly crafted and kept up and worth a visit on their own. Year-round, you can book a morning tour that shows the early training sessions, as well as teaches guests about the history of Keeneland and thoroughbred racing.

keeneland.com , 4201 Versailles Rd, Lexington, KY 40510

Attend the Keeneland Races

The horse-racing events in Kentucky are set apart from other sporting events due to the pomp and circumstance that surrounds them. Spectators are expected to dress to the nines—hats, ascots, and all—to sip on mint juleps and bet on quirky-named horses. At Keeneland, you can plan a visit during the Spring Meet or Fall Meet.

Visit a Retirement Home for Racehorses

At Old Friends , a retirement farm for Thoroughbreds whose careers have ended, Michael Blowen gives racehorses the best kind of Kentucky retirement. When Blowen decided to start a retirement farm for racehorses, people were skeptical. "They all thought I was nuts," he says. Today, Blowen oversees three farms that serve as the residence for 260 retired or elderly horses. You can visit the main facility at Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, Kentucky, and get the chance to meet past champion horses.

oldfriendsequine.org , 1841 Paynes Depot Rd, Georgetown, KY 40324

Reserve a Tour at Famed Horse Farms

Prestigious operations such as  Claiborne Farm ,  Spy Coast Farm , and  Ashford Stud  (home of Triple Crown winners American Pharoah and Justify) offer a fleeting glimpse into a largely exclusive world. You're able to book public group tours ahead of time, and therefore craft your own itinerary. During the tours, expect to learn the history of often generational horse farms, meet past champion horses, and take in the scenic views.

Take Advantage of Kentucky Horse Park

Opened in 1978, the Kentucky Horse Park is the world’s only park dedicated to teaching people about horses and helping take care of and showcase the majestic animals. During most of the year, the park is home to up to 100 horses representing more than 25 different breeds. While you can explore the museum, visitor's center, and horse stalls, there is no better way to immerse yourself in horse culture than embarking on the guided 35-minute trail ride, which is suitable for first-time riders and takes you along the outskirts of the park.

kyhorsepark.com , 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511

Follow The Bourbon Trail

Tour the reader-voted "south's best distillery".

There are 46 stops that make up the  Kentucky Bourbon Trail , but amongst the many options, make sure to plan a visit to what our readers previously voted the "South's Best:" The Woodford Reserve Distillery . The official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve has garnered icon status since its founding in 1812, and even still uses a track system from the 1800s to roll barrels into the warehouses. Tours include bourbon tastings, and a visit to the Woodford Reserve Welcome Center comes with excellent cocktails and expert pours, as well as sweeping views from the veranda.

woodfordreserve.com , 7785 McCracken Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

Taste More Than Just Bourbon

Beyond just bourbon, there are some distilleries offering a unique range of distilled products.  Castle & Key Distillery , located half an hour from downtown Lexington in Frankfort, also offers tastings of its in-house gin and vodka that will appeal to those who don't prefer bourbon. Make sure to roam the gorgeous grounds that once housed the Old Taylor Distillery, a romantic castle built in the 1800s.

castleandkey.com , 4445 McCracken Pike, Frankfort, KY 40601

Explore More Well-Known Bourbon Legends

Fortunately, there is a distillery for practically every taste here. Heirloom distilleries such as Buffalo Trace and Maker's Mark are sure-fire delights for a bourbon lover. The  Maker’s Mark distillery is exactly what you hope a bourbon distillery will look like: a large black barn with cherry red shutters, the old homestead (now a visitors center) tucked beneath shade trees, landscaped paths, and a trickling stream named Whisky Creek. In downtown Frankfort, not far from Lexington, Buffalo Trace feels like an industrial frontier town, with most of the buildings on the 118-acre campus built before Prohibition.

Pay Visits to Small-Batch Bourbon Makers

Luckily, the industry hasn't stopped at the big names. Embark on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour to hit unique and newer small-batch labels with fresh perspectives. There are 28 stops to choose from, including Bluegrass Distillers which has a downtown Lexington location available for visits. For those hitting the road, family-run  Brough Brothers Distillery —the first Black-owned microdistillery in Kentucky—offers tasting and tours in the Park Hill area of Louisville, only a little over an hour's drive away from Lexington.

Check Out The City

Spend an evening in the distillery district.

The  Distillery District —housed in the Historic James E. Pepper Distillery, which had previously sat abandoned for five decades—is now the place to go to have a little tour of everything that Lexington has to offer, including working bourbon distilleries, restaurants, bars, and shops. Make a stop at the Barrel House Distillery , a craft distiller on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail; try authentic Kentucky burgoo at the Elkhorn Tavern ; and listen to music at Manchester Music Hall , which is located in the circa-1800s bourbon warehouse of Old Tarr Distillery.

lexingtondistillerydistrict.com , 1228 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40504

If You Haven't, Try Ale-8

Ale-8-One—called Ale-8 for short—is a gingery, citrusy soft drink that tastes like a crisper, more mellowed take on ginger beer, and it's the only Kentucky-invented soft drink still being produced. The first batches were bottled in 1926, making it over 90 years old. Head to the downtown rooftop of  Belle's Cocktail House , and order a "bourbon & Ale-8."

bellesbar.com , 156 Market St, Lexington, KY 40507

Explore Downtown Lexington

Downtown Lexington has plenty of entertainment to spend a day exploring. On weekends, stop by the Lexington Farmers' Market. Peep the many murals throughout the city blocks. Head to The Square —a block of renovated Victorian-style buildings—to see the art scene at  Plymale Gallery ,  Main Cross Gallery , and the  Artist Attic . On the same block as the 21c Museum Hotel is  Bourbon on Rye , a modish take on a moody bourbon bar, where some truly well-versed bartenders will happily guide you without breaking the bank.

Where To Eat

Enjoy southern cuisine at dudley's on short.

A Lexington institution for nearly 40 years, Dudley's On Short is the perfect spot to grab a Southern-inspired upscale lunch or dinner, located in a circa-1880s bank. No meal is complete without "Dudley's Eggs," which are the perfect deviled egg bites to split. The brunch-and-lunch menu has standout shareables, including bacon beignets and smoked trout dip.

dudleysonshort.com , 259 W Short St #125, Lexington, KY 40507

Start or End Your Day at Pearl's

A bagel shop by morning and pizza-and-wine bar by evening, Pearl's in downtown Lexington is our kind of all-day café. The breakfast bagels are hand-rolled and honey-boiled, and the wood-fired pizza is delightfully poofy and charred, perfect for sharing with family and friends with a bottle of all-natural wine, which the restaurant specializes in.

pearlspizzapie.com , 133 N Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507

Indulge in Kentucky Barbecue at Blue Door Smokehouse

You'll find the best brisket in the area at Blue Door Smokehouse , hands down. Opened in 2013 by two Lexington natives, this BBQ joint doles out sandwiches and plates piled high with the smoked meats of your choice. Ask for the "Blue Door Special" to sample all the proteins in stock on any given day.

bluedoorsmokehouse.com , 226 Walton Ave, Lexington, KY 40502

Try the Latin Cuisine at Corto Lima

This Latin-inspired restaurant is run by James Beard-nominated chef Jonathan Lundy. At Corto Lima , you can expect a mix of flavor-packed dishes, such as shrimp ceviche, adobo chicken, and rock crab empanadas. Start with a batch of guacamole and a house margarita to wash it all down.

cortolima.com , 101 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507

Grab a Slice at Missy's Pies

A local favorite since 1989, Missy's Pies offers the best homemade slices of delectable pies in town. Flavors vary according to day and season, but look out for customer-beloved options such as the chocolate-and-peanut butter "Combo" Pie, Black Bottom Banana Pie, and Coconut Cream Pie.

missyspieshop.com , 502 E High St, Lexington, KY 40502

Where To Stay

Stay at an award-winning museum hotel.

Located in downtown Lexington, the artsy  21c Museum Hotel is housed in a historic bank building. Except now, it offers such contemporary perks as a contemporary art museum and a notable in-house restaurant,  Lockbox . Explore the exhibits between comings and goings.

21cmuseumhotels.com/lexington , 167 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507

Stay in the Distillery District

Located in Lexington's restored Distillery District walkable to the many restaurants and shops, The Manchester feels perfectly suited to the historic and soulful nature of Lexington. The interiors' supple leather and rich, earthy tones mimic the surrounding Bluegrass hills and Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries. The hotel offers 125 rooms with a bespoke bottle shop, lobby bar, and two in-house dining options—Appalachian-inspired Granddam—and rooftop bar Lost Palm.

themanchesterky.com , 941 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40508

Stay at a Hip Pet-Friendly Hotel

The Elwood Hotel is adorned with a colorful mural on the front facade, and you can expect similar energy on the inside with vibrant art and decor. The 62-room boutique hotel is also welcoming to those with pets and has an in-house restaurant. Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar, located in the lobby, is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for indoor dining, as well as an outdoor terrace with firepits. 

theelwoodhotel.com , 444 Parkway Dr, Lexington, KY 40504

Make A Rural Pitstop

Stop for lunch at wallace station deli.

Make a pit stop at  Wallace Station Deli  near Midway, one of well-known Kentucky chef Ouita Michel's places. The 15-minute drive to Wallace Station from the highway will take you past some of the area's showiest horse farms. Order one of the Inside Out Hot Browns (their take on a  classic Kentucky sandwich ) and a cold bottle of Ale-8.

wallacestation.com , 3854 Old Frankfort Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

Tour the Kentucky Castle

One of the more unique landmarks you'll come across while driving around Kentucky's bourbon trail and horse country region, the Kentucky Castle offers various experiences, including tours of the castle grounds, themed dinners, or farm days. You can even stay on the grounds for an extra magical trip.

thekentuckycastle.com , 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

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Partners pitch Lexington region’s advantages to consultants

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Commerce Lexington, the City of Lexington, and its regional economic development partners were proud to showcase the Greater Lexington Region during Consultant Connect’s Destination Summit held here from April 17-19.

This premier event, sponsored by Commerce Lexington and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, brought together top site selectors and local community leaders to discuss economic development opportunities and the competitive advantages of the Greater Lexington Region.

Consultant Connect is an organization that facilitates connections between economic developers and site selection consultants, offering opportunities for networking, learning, and relationship-building. The Destination Summits, organized by Consultant Connect, bring together top minds in economic development and site selection at various locations across the U.S. and Canada for intimate gatherings. These summits provide attendees with the chance to engage with location consultants, discuss industry trends, build relationships, and learn from experts in the field.

Over the course of the three-day summit, attendees were immersed in the economic potential and cultural richness of Greater Lexington. The event boasted an impressive one-on-one ratio of attendees to location consultants, allowing for personalized and productive discussions about the region’s competitive edge. The program featured discussions on the Regional Competitiveness Plan, updates on the Kentucky Product Development Initiative, and strategies from the developing talent campaign.

Attendees also experienced unique aspects of the local community, including a tour of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, a mock horse sale at Fasig-Tipton, a visit to the historic Keeneland racecourse, and a culinary exploration of the Distillery District.

Bob Quick, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington, considered the event a success.

“This summit has provided a unique opportunity to position the Greater Lexington Region on the national stage. Through strategic discussions and immersive experiences, we’ve highlighted why the Greater LEX is not just a great place to do business, but also a vibrant community to call home,” Quick said.

“To keep our economy healthy and strong, we have talked for many years about working on economic development as a region – now we’re doing it,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “For example, Lexington is working with Scott and Madison counties in establishing an economic development park that will provide jobs and split future tax revenue among the three counties. The park will be located in Scott County.”  Mayor Gorton said events like the Destination Summit will bring more opportunities to the region in the future.

Judge Executive Reagan Taylor of Madison County had a positive view also.

“Madison County is proud to be part of the collective effort to elevate the profile of our entire region,” Reagan said. “The partnerships and insights gained during this summit are vital to driving forward our shared economic development goals. We must stop competing and start complementing one another, and this is a great example.”

Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development Commissioner Kristina Slattery praised the efforts in organizing the summit. “The Destination Summit has seamlessly highlighted the economic strengths and potential of the Lexington region to a national audience of site selectors and industry leaders. Events like these play a pivotal role in attracting investment, fostering economic growth, and showcasing the diverse opportunities available in Kentucky,” she remarked.

Gina Greathouse, Commerce Lexington’s Executive Vice President of Economic Development, said, “We appreciate the many participants and partners who contributed to the success of this event. We look forward to continuing to build on the momentum generated at the Destination Summit to foster growth and prosperity throughout the Greater Lexington Region.”

In 2023, Commerce Lexington launched a strategic plan in collaboration with public and private stakeholders to enhance regional economic competitiveness across the nine-county region. The initiative focuses on implementing impactful and viable goals that have garnered widespread support within the community. A key component of this strategy is to actively engage with site selectors to raise the profile of the region on a national scale. By showcasing the unique advantages of the region at signature events, Commerce Lexington and its regional partners aim to solidify the region’s position as a top contender for business development opportunities.

For more information about Greater Lexington and Commerce Lexington’s economic development efforts, please visit www.locateinlexington.com .

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Kentucky's Mark Pope filling out coaching staff after plucking Baylor's top assistant from Scott Drew

Alvin brooks iii is leaving baylor for kentucky to become the associate head coach of the wildcats.

Turns out, Kentucky was able to convince a Baylor coach to leave after all. 

Less than two weeks after Scott Drew turned down Kentucky's offer to become its next head coach, Drew has lost his top assistant to the Wildcats. Alvin Brooks III is leaving the Bears after eight seasons under Drew to join Mark Pope's staff as the associate head coach at Kentucky, sources told CBS Sports. 

Brooks made his decision late Tuesday night, after having visited Kentucky earlier in the day. It's a major coup for Pope, who has now filled out four of his five assistant spots. Recent NCAA rule changes allow for five assistant coaches, with three of those being primary roles that also, crucially, include on-the-road recruiting responsibilities. Brooks, who carries a prestigious reputation and helped Drew build Baylor into one of the top programs in the sport over the past half-decade, will be Pope's top lieutenant in Lexington.

Pope has also brought on former G League Ignite head coach/longtime USC assistant Jason Hart, a hire that was lauded across the industry. Hart, like Brooks, carries a lot of esteem in basketball circles — high school, college and pro. Rounding out the top three is Cody Fueger, who worked all five years under Pope at BYU and has made the switch to Kentucky. Every one of Pope's assistants are considered to be future head coach material. 

Pope has also hired former Cal/Georgia/Nevada coach Mark Fox in an off-the-road capacity. He'll officially serve as the special assistant to the head coach. In 2009, when Pope left med school to get into coaching, Fox hired him at Georgia and gave Pope his first job in college basketball. He's been a mentor to Pope ever since. Fox will be coming over after spending a year as a de facto general manager of Georgetown's roster under Ed Cooley. 

As for the fifth and final assistant's post at Kentucky, sources told CBS Sports that it will be "a little while" before Pope makes a decision on who is getting that gig.

With a staff mostly filled out, sources said Pope and company are now burrowing in on a litany of official visits in the hopes of getting more players on board as soon as possible. Kentucky currently has commitments from just three players: top-40 freshman Collin Chandler, previously committed to BYU; top-75 freshman/Kentucky native Travis Perry; and Drexel grad transfer Amari Williams, who will play center. Kentucky has more visits scheduled in the coming days, highlighted by Saint Mary's transfer Aidan Mahaney and Utah State transfer Great Osobor.

Renovations in Waco

Down at Baylor, Drew is undergoing significant changes on his staff after having unusual continuity for years at one of the best programs in the sport. 

He recently lost John Jakus — who, like Brooks, was an assistant on the 2020-21 title-winning team — in late March when Jakus won the FAU job. Drew's also had to replace a director of basketball operations and a non-recruiting assistant all in the past month. At least one position is set to be filled, though. Drew is hiring former Ole Miss and LSU assistant Bill Armstrong, sources said. Armstrong spent the past two seasons coaching high school (Link Academy).

Brooks leaving for Kentucky isn't expected to change Baylor's biggest incoming commitment. Five-star shooting guard VJ Edgecombe — the No. 5 player in the 2024 class, per 247 Sports — was recruited by Brooks to BU. But despite Brooks leaving for Kentucky, Edgecombe is still expected to play for Baylor, a source said. 

Baylor also recently got a commitment from Duke grad transfer Jeremy Roach , who has bolstered what should be one of the best backcourts in the nation next season. More high-profile transfer portal commitments are expected at Baylor in the coming week.

Under Drew, Baylor is 128-35 (.785) the past five seasons, which amounts to one of the best winning percentages in college hoops, and is the only program to earn a No. 1, 2 or 3 seed the past four NCAA Tournaments. It's one of five schools that's been ranked in the top 10 in each of the past five seasons, joining Duke, Kansas, Kentucky and Gonzaga.

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10 memorable Kentucky Derby horse names who became champions

The culture of the Kentucky Derby is multifaceted.

From the races and horses to the food, fashion and drinks, the Run for the Roses isn’t short of tradition. But one tradition that goes beyond races is the horse-naming process. There have been some good ones over the years to be called out during the Derby. Though the 2023 winner’s name , Mage, was one of the more common-sounding names, others over the past 150 years have been more outlandish and memorable.

Some horses will go down in Kentucky Derby history for being a long-shot champion or winning impressively. Other horses will be remembered for their monikers.

Here are 10 of the most unique Derby-winning horse names:

10. California Chrome (2014)

The Golden State once was known for its low riders, rims and hydraulics. California Chrome is a nice ode to the culture. After the horse won the Derby, Jay-Z purchased him for $55 million.

9. Funny Cide (2003)

There are two sides to every story and, evidently, a funny “cide” to the 2003 Derby winner. He beat Empire Maker in the Run for the Roses, becoming the first New York-bred horse to earn the honor. Falling a Belmont Stakes win short of the Triple Crown, Funny Cide made $3.6 million during his racing career and retired in 2008. The 23-year-old died due to complications with colic last year at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

8. I’ll Have Another (2012)

The only thing more popular than horses at the Kentucky Derby might be mint juleps. What better way to pay homage to the bourbon-based drink than to name a horse I’ll Have Another? The 15-year-old horse was a Belmont Stakes win away from the Triple Crown. He was scratched from the race due to tendinitis. The chestnut Kentucky native spent five years in Japan before returning to the United States in 2018.

7. Dancer’s Image (1968)

Three years before Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer,” there was Dancer’s Image, whose name was originally A.T.’s Image. After rallying to win the Kentucky Derby, he was drug tested and found to have bute, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug for the short-term treatment of pain and fever in animals, in his system. The drug was prohibited on race days. The case was litigated for five years. Dancer’s Image became the first horse to be disqualified from a Triple Crown race .

6. Spend a Buck (1985)

His owners made a lot more than they spent on the Kentucky-bred horse. Spend a Buck finished his racing career with a 15-10-3-2 record and earned $4,220,689. He lived his final years in Brazil before dying of anaphylactic shock after an allergic reaction to penicillin in 2002.

5. Gallant Fox (1930)

Naming one animal after another is an interesting choice. He wasn’t the only “fox” in the family, either, with his younger brother being named Fighting Fox. Born at Claiborne Farm, Gallant Fox was the first horse to surpass $300,000 in earnings in a year and became the second American Triple Crown winner in 1930.

4. Gato Del Sol (1982)

It’s one thing for a horse to be named after a different animal. But doing so in another language is next level. Translated from Spanish, it means “cat of the sun” and originated from a popular Mexican song . He sired 87 winners and two stakes winners before being euthanized at 28 years old in 2007.

3. Exterminator (1918)

If his name wasn’t unique enough, Exterminator earned the nickname “Old Bones” because of his bony appearance and even had a poem written about him by Guy McGee. The gelding raced until he was 8 years old and retired with 50 wins, nine of which were stakes races in 1920.

2. Lil E. Tee (1992)

One of the most popular songs in 1992 was "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mix-A-Lot. Although Lil E. Tee sounds like a fellow rapper’s name, the Derby-winning thoroughbred was a 17-1 long shot when he won the Derby, beating favorite Arazi.

1. Clyde Van Dusen (1929)

One of the most original horse names just happens to sound like an actual name because it is/was. The son of Man o’ War was named after jockey-turned-trainer Clyde Van Dusen because both were smaller in stature. The mudder never won another stakes race but ended his career with 12 first-place finishes in 42 starts.

Reach Louisville football, women's basketball and baseball beat writer Alexis Cubit at [email protected] and follow her on X at @Alexis_Cubit.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: 10 funny Kentucky Derby horse names that won the race

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