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High-Stepping Performers Grace the Kentucky Horse Park LEXINGTON, KY (April 21, 2005) They’re elegant, sleek, nimble and graceful, with stage-presence galore and legs that go all the way to the top – fabulous legs. When they enter the show ring, audiences jump to their feet with appreciative whistles and applause for the show-stoppers under the spotlights. Whether they are blonde, brunette, auburn or flaming redheads, each one takes command of the show ring in its own, unique way. It’s something akin to River Dance and Rockettes all rolled into one event. That’s the best part of watching the Kentucky Spring Premier Saddlebred Show May 5-7 at the Kentucky Horse Park. Nearly 500 American Saddlebred horses, Hackney Horses and Hackney Ponies will compete in a variety of classes. Hair extensions, makeup, fancy costumes (all just for the horses), along with quick, high-stepping leg action set to music make Saddlebred horse shows quite a spectacular production. “There may not be another breed of horse in the world that appreciates and responds to audience applause as does the American Saddlebred,” observed Kentucky Horse Park Executive Director, John Nicholson. “Every breed has its own signature – its qualities that set it apart from other breeds. For Saddlebreds, it’s a sense of style that seems to be an innate part of who they are. The more the audience claps for them, the higher and more exaggerated the horses’ movements. They love the spotlight and that’s what makes them so much fun for our park visitors to see.” The public is invited to watch and cheer these horses on all three days of the show. According to the American Saddlebred Horse Association, “The American Saddlebred is the personification of the ultimate show horse. He carries himself with an attitude – he is alert, with his neck arched, head up and ears forward, every movement saying ‘Look at me!’ A show horse is a spectacle of beauty and grace, but it is also an intense athletic competitor. Today, the American Saddlebred is best known for being the ultimate show horse, high stepping and elegant, as he performs his five gaits: walk, trot, canter, slow gait, and rack.” The performances start at 1 and 7 pm on May 5 and 6, and from 10 and 7 pm on May 7. For information, contact Chuck Walker, 859-268-4509, canter9876@aol.com. For information on the American Saddlebred Horse, go to www.asha.net. Admittance to the Kentucky Spring Premier Saddlebred Show and the American Saddlebred Museum is included with Kentucky Horse Park admission. From March 15-October 31, the Kentucky Horse Park is open seven days a week. Admission is $14 for adults and $7 for children ages 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. YOU AIN’T NOTHIN’ BUT A FOXHOUND DOG 4-20-05 450 Hounds Track a Scent to the Kentucky Horse Park PHOTO HERE LEXINGTON, KY (April 20, 2005) Some of the best smellers in the Midwest will be yipping and baying their way to fame and fortune at the Kentucky Horse Park on May 7 during the Mid-America Foxhound Show. Dubbed “The Hound Show for Hound People,” the event is expected to attract at least 450 dogs, the vast majority of which are Foxhounds, representing 30 different hunt clubs throughout the Midwest. Also vying for stardom will be Bassets, Beagles and Terriers. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), “George Washington, the father of our nation, is also the father of American Foxhounds. In 1770, Washington imported a number of hounds from England and in 1785, he received a number of French foxhounds from the Marquis de Lafayette. These hounds, carefully bred and maintained by Washington, are the founders of today's American Foxhound. More than 30 hounds were listed in Washington's journals, including ‘Drunkard,’ ‘Tipler,’ and ‘Tipsy’.” Local lore surrounding the Foxhound, again according to the AKC, has it that “It was in November 1852 that a black and tan hound was stolen out of Tennessee and taken to Madison County, Kentucky. This hound was called ‘Tennessee Lead’ and he became the foundation sire of all Walker, Trigg and Goodman foxhounds. These three strains make up the major portion of what is called American Foxhounds by AKC today. “The American Foxhound is an ideal choice for those who live in rural areas or on large farms.” Judges from England and Maryland, who are coming to the Kentucky Horse Park specifically for the hound show, will inspect the dogs. “This is a good way for our visitors who enjoy dogs to be surrounded by some fine animals and learn about a number of hound breeds at the same time,” said John Nicholson, Executive Director of the park. He continued, “One particularly nice feature of this show is that spectators are given the opportunity to learn from the judges about the dogs being shown. We appreciate the fact that judges of this stature are willing to address the audience and explain their decisions in the judging process.” The dogs won’t have a monopoly on all of the fun, however. The Iroquois and Woodford Hunt Clubs are hosting the Mid-America Foxhound Show, which will include hound judging seminars and dinner the night before, and socializing in packs the next day. Judging begins at 9 am on May 7 at the park and goes through most of the afternoon. For information, contact Lilla Mason at lmason2342@aol.com or 859-233-1111, or click on www.midamericashow.org. The Mid-America Foxhound Show is included with KHP admission. Admission to the Kentucky Horse Park is $14 for adults, and $7 for children ages 7-12. Children 6 and under admitted free of charge. Admission also includes the Kentucky Bloodlines exhibition and the American Saddlebred Museum. VETERINARIANS HELP HORSES AND HORSE PARK Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital Hosts Veterinary Seminar for Sport Horses LEXINGTON, KY (April 13, 2005) Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital will hold an educational seminar for horse owners on April 28 during the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event at the Kentucky Horse Park. The seminar offers information on the latest veterinary technology specifically pertaining to competing the sport horse. Proceeds will benefit the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation. Topics to be covered during the seminar will include: Upper Airway Disease and the Equine Athlete, by Dr. Brett Woodie. Dr. Woodie was actively involved in research of the equine upper respiratory tract while on staff at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. In his practice at Rood and Riddle, he concentrates on soft tissue surgery with emphasis on upper respiratory tract surgery. Vaccinating Your Sport Horse, by Dr. Chris Newton. Dr Newton has been involved in eventing as a competitor. He is a primary and preventative care practitioner at Rood and Riddle, with a large part of his practice devoted to equine sports medicine, physical therapy and alternative medicine. Acupuncture and the Performance Horse, by Dr. Kathleen Paasch. Dr Paasch has worked as an assistant to renowned orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Larry Bramlage at Rood and Riddle. She received her acupuncture training through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society and concentrates her practice on lameness and orthopedics. Equine Nutrition with Emphasis on the Athlete, by Dr. David Pugh. Dr. Pugh is double boarded in Nutrition and Theriogenology. Formerly on staff at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Pugh is currently on staff with Fort Dodge as a Field Veterinary Consultant. The seminars will be held in the South Theater of the Kentucky Horse Park following the day’s dressage competition, from 4 to 6 pm, with a reception to follow, sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health. Admission is $5. Tickets can be purchased in the Visitor Information Center at the Kentucky Horse Park For more information, contact Robin Murray at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, rmurray@roodandriddle.com or 859-233-0371. E.R. FOR HORSES 4-11-05 Large Animal Emergency Response Training at Kentucky Horse Park LEXINGTON, KY “Horses often find themselves in extremely dangerous situations, and we want to do everything in our power to save their lives,” said John Nicholson, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park. “That’s why we’re so pleased that Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is offering a Large Animal Emergency Response Seminar here at the park.” This presentation on April 29 at 12:30 pm will review rescue and transport of a recumbent horse, mud and water rescue, trailer accidents, barn fires as well as night search and rescue. It will take place in the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute tent #154 at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. A live demonstration on rescue and transport of a recumbent horse will follow at 5 pm in the Indoor Arena. Dr. Nathan Slovis will conduct the seminar and demonstration, using a live horse, to show effective, efficient and safe rescue techniques to use when a horse is down. Proper use of an equine glide for transport will also be reviewed. Nicholson concluded, “The more we are prepared to assist horses in any situation, even the most precarious, the better for them and for us. It is part of our obligation as residents of the Horse Capital of the World.” Horse caretakers and the public are encouraged to attend. A summary of the veterinary lectures offered by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute during the Rolex event include: Equine Acupuncture, by Rhonda Rathgeber, PhD, DVM, Thursday, April 28 at 12:30 pm in the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute tent # 154. The basic science of acupuncture, how it works, the equipment used and some clinical cases in which it can be useful. Included with Rolex admission. Large Animal Emergency Response, by Nathan Slovis, DVM, DACVIM, Friday, April 29 at 12:30 pm in the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute tent #154. Review of rescue and transport of a recumbent horse, mud and water rescue, trailer accidents, barn fires as well as night search and rescue. Included with Rolex admission. Large Animal Emergency Response Demonstration, by Dr. Slovis, Friday, April 29 at 5:00 pm in the Indoor Arena. A demonstration using a live horse to show effective, efficient and safe rescue techniques to utilize when a horse is down. Included with Rolex admission. Joint Disease and Therapy, by Dr. Rathgeber, Saturday, April 30 at 12:30 pm in the Hagyard Medical Institute tent # 154. Basic joint anatomy and the basic physiology of degenerative joint disease/arthritis. Also discussed will be the various products of oral injectable and intra-articular joint therapies. Included with Rolex admission. For information on the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute seminars, contact LaTonna Wilson at 859-255-8741 or lwilson@hagyard.com. For information on Rolex, visit their website at www.rk3de.com. Editor’s Note: Thumbnail photos of simulated horse emergency rescues are attached. Higher resolution, larger versions are available for use in your publication by emailing crullman@kyhorsepark.com. PARLEZ-VOUS WOOF WOOF? International Dog Show Comes to the Kentucky Horse Park LEXINGTON, KY (April 5, 2005) More than 200 dogs of all breeds will paw their way to the Kentucky Horse Park April 9-10 to compete in the International Dog Show. The International All Breed Canine Association is hosting the show, which is being held at the park for the first time. The competition will be judged by a panel of international judges and begins at 8 am both days. For more information on the International Dog Show, contact the show manager Jeff Bridegum, 503-316-9160, email bridegum@aol.com or visit their website at www.iabca.com. Admittance to the dog show is included with Kentucky Horse Park admission. The park is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission is $14 for adults, $7 for children 7-12 and free for children 6 and under. Admission also includes the American Saddlebred Museum. 70,000 SPECTATORS CAN’T BE WRONG Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event is One of Kentucky’s Greatest Sporting Events LEXINGTON, KY (March 30, 2005) When describing the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event at the Kentucky Horse Park, Governor Ernie Fletcher said it well, “This is white-knuckled, adrenaline-pumping action that brings out the best in horses and their riders, all of whom are among the finest athletes in the world. Horses at this level really have to be seen in person to be appreciated. Their versatility is incomparable.” The governor elaborated, “The three-day event for a horse is the equivalent of a human athlete being asked to excel in all areas of ballet, sprints, marathons and high jumping. The horses’ minds and bodies are finely-tuned and disciplined to work in precise concert with their riders. Part of the fun is watching how the horses react to the appreciative applause of the crowds when they accomplish these awesome athletic maneuvers.” John Nicholson, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park noted, “We are very pleased and honored that Rolex and Equestrian Events, Inc. have chosen the Kentucky Horse Park to host this prestigious event year after year. For those who may have never witnessed an equine sporting event at this level, it is a great opportunity to see horses and riders at their best. Most of our 70,000 visitors over the three days of the event have come back year-after-year because they don’t want to miss a day of it.” The park encourages visitors to bring their families and friends to enjoy three days of spectacular beauty and excitement, adrenaline rushes, great shopping in the international trade fair, food and socializing. They are also invited to tour the rest of the Kentucky Horse Park, watch some gorgeous Friesian horses who are performing at the park through May 8, catch the new Best of the West show, sit in on the Rood and Riddle Equine Seminar (a veterinary seminar for horse owners), tour special exhibitions in the park museums and take a look at some adoptable Thoroughbreds at the Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center, also located in the park. The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park April 28-May 1. Tickets and information on the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event can be acquired by contacting Equestrian Events, Inc. through their web site at www.rk3de.org or by calling their office at 859-233-2362. YANKS MEET REBS, BAYS MEET CHESTNUTS ON KENTUCKY HORSE PARK BATTLEFIELD Cavalry Reenactment Training to Take Place in Park’s Newest Field LEXINGTON, KY (March 24, 2005) Some of the United States’ richest history unfolded on the fields of Kentucky a century-and-a-half ago, so it is appropriate that Kentucky would be the gathering spot for cavalry reenactment training the first weekend in April. The 1st Ohio Volunteer Cavalry Company D will roll into the Kentucky Horse Park with their horses, canteens, guns and a spirit of history for two days of “Spring Camp” -- intense battlefield drills -- in preparation for the Civil War reenactment season throughout Kentucky and the Midwest region. “Cavalry reenactment participants in general represent a wide variety of backgrounds and interests,” noted Ken Jansen, one of the training organizers. “The people who make up these groups are everything from cops and lawyers to CEOs and even Supreme Court Justices. They share a love of horses and history.” Jansen also participates as a member of the British Cavalry in French/Indian War reenactments. The horses come from equally varied backgrounds and include Thoroughbreds off the track, Saddlebreds, Quarter Horses and questionable parentage. The common denominator is that they have great temperaments and are unflinching in the midst of cannon and musket fire, and willingly allow soldiers to shoot from horseback. One of the horses Jansen uses is an Arabian who was rescued from an abusive situation and has now become one of his best reenactment horses. The Kentucky Horse Park owns 192 acres of land toward the back of the park, on which the cavalry reenactment training will take place all day Saturday, April 2 and part of the day on Sunday, April 3. LIVE AND IN CONCERT: Henry Clay? LEXINGTON, KY (March 20, 2005) So what’s left of Henry Clay’s life that hasn’t already been seen or said during the past two centuries? A whole museum-full, according to Bill Cooke, Director of the International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park. “Henry Clay is such an integral part of Kentucky’s history that most of us take him for granted. We have assumed that we already know all there is to know about this historical, political giant who put Kentucky on the map in more ways than one. But until now, very few people have been introduced to Henry Clay, the horseman. That’s why we’re so pleased to present a fresh perspective on a man and a family who led the charge to make Kentucky the horse capital of the world.” As part of the Kentucky Bloodlines: The Legacy of Henry Clay exhibition, George McGee, a professional actor, will perform an historically accurate, live impersonation of horseman Henry Clay on April 2 at 11:45 in the courtyard of the park. The Kentucky Humanities Council is partnering with the park to offer this live presentation as part of their Kentucky Chautauqua series. “This will be a great opportunity for school groups to learn about one of Kentucky’s greatest heroes and political geniuses. Clay played a huge role in the history of the United States while serving as Senator, Speaker of the House and Secretary of State. He was a major player on the national and international political scene, all the while, developing his Ashland Stud into a premier agricultural showplace and horse breeding farm,” according to Bill Cooke. The live impersonation and the exhibition, Kentucky Bloodlines: The Legacy of Henry Clay will present a new angle on the fascinating story of Clay and his heirs, through their role in the development of Kentucky as a horse breeding mecca. It will be a rich and exciting opportunity for every Kentuckian to pay homage to its most famous native son, and for the horse industry to pay respect to one of its founding fathers. Included in this fascinating exhibit are racing trophies, original pieces of Henry Clay’s furniture, silver and paintings, along with Civil War and horse related artifacts from his descendants. It will run from April 1- October 31. For more information, contact Bill Cooke, Director of the International Museum of the Horse, at 859-259-4231, bcooke@kyhorsepark.com. A Teacher’s Guide is available on-line at www.kyhorsepark.com under “What’s New” and school groups are encouraged to attend. Contact Amity Brannock for school group rates, abrannock@kyhorsepark.com or 859-259-4225. RIDE FOR A LIFETIME Kentucky Horse Park Offers Youth Horseback Riding Lessons LEXINGTON, KY (March 14, 2005) The Kentucky Horse Park has announced its Youth Riding Program schedule for 2005. The program will introduce kids and teens, ages 10-18, to a sport that could bring a lifetime of enjoyment. Participants in the Youth Riding Program will learn to catch, lead, groom and tack horses. They will also learn the basics of stall management and balanced seat riding. The four sessions this summer will take place May 31-June 3 ($120), June 6-10 ($150), June 13-17 ($150) and June 20-24 ($150), from 9 am – 3 pm with one hour lunch break. Any two sessions can be taken for $250. Contact Margi Stickney or Todd Waronicki at 859-259-4206, email education@kyhorsepark.com or visit the website at www.kyhorsepark.com and click on “Education Programs.” ARTSY PARKSY: Kentucky Horse Park Announces Art Exhibitions LEXINGTON, KY (March 9, 2005) The Kentucky Horse Park will offer several special equine art exhibitions this summer in the International Museum of the Horse and the American Saddlebred Museum. Kentucky Bloodlines: The Legacy of Henry Clay, April 1-October 31, will feature original oil paintings, silver and furniture belonging to legendary statesman and horseman, Henry Clay. For information, contact Museum Director Bill Cooke, 859-259-4231 or bcooke@kyhorsepark.com. The House of Bourbon: Bourbon County’s Saddlebred Kingdom, through December 30 in the American Saddlebred Museum at the park, will feature artwork, photographs, trophies, ribbons, tack and memorabilia representing the rich history of the Saddlebred in Bourbon County. For information, contact Tolley Graves, 859-259-2746, ashm@mis.net. American Academy of Equine Art 25th Annual Spring Members Invitational Exhibition and Sale, April 9-May 30, will feature original pieces of equine art by AAEA members and invited guest artists, including oils, watercolors and sculptures. For information, contact Julie Buchanan, Executive Director of the AAEA, 859-281-6031 or julieb@aaea.net. Peter Williams: A Retrospective, June 10-September 5, will feature paintings by this world-renowned equine artist. For information, contact Bill Cooke, 859-259-4231 or bcooke@kyhorsepark.com. American Academy of Equine Art Fall Open Juried Exhibition and Sale, September 17-October 31, will feature original artwork by new and emerging equine artists from around the world. For information and entry form, contact Julie Buchanan, 859-281-6031 or julieb@aaea.net. Admission to these special art exhibitions is free with Kentucky Horse Park admission. From March 15-October 31, the park is open seven days a week. Admission is $14 for adults and $7 for children ages 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. Admission includes the American Saddlebred Museum EQUINE STAR OF “SEABISCUIT” FILM PASSES AWAY 3-8-05 Thoroughbred Blew Into Our Hearts Depicting an American Legend on the Big Screen LEXINGTON, KY (March 7, 2005) His registered name was “I Two Step Two” but to thousands of people who fell in love with him, he became known as “Seabiscuit,” after the movie in which he starred. I Two Step Two was humanely destroyed today, at the age of 11, at the Kentucky Horse Park after battling a rare type of tumor for several months. John Nicholson, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park noted, “This is a sad day for all of us at the park. This horse was not only very popular with our visitors, but was greatly loved by everyone who worked with him. I Two Step Two was a kind, gentle animal who gladly received thousands of visitors and never lost his patience.” He continued, “The only good thing about this is that we will continue to see him every time the movie is shown. We also have the comfort and satisfaction of knowing that he had an excellent, happy life at the park. We only wish had lived another twenty years.” His role as Seabiscuit helped to rekindle America’s love of horse racing. He not only helped to tell this wonderful story, but left his own legacy as well. Lulu Davis, Kentucky Horse Park Foundation board member commented, “The park was such a natural home for a Hollywood star such as I Two Step Two. His spirit and enthusiasm were unmistakable.” Although his biggest claim to fame would at first appear to be his role in Seabiscuit and the joy he brought to movie goers, perhaps his greatest legacy is in the mark his lovely character made on the hearts of the people who worked with him. I Two Step Two was affectionate, obedient and willing, and his death is most deeply felt by the people who were close to him. Those who tended to his needs every day at the park collectively referred to him as one of the best horses they had ever worked with in terms of disposition and personality. One of his friends at the park observed, “This is the kind of horse that gets into your soul.” The film had four categories of equine actors needed to portray Seabiscuit in different scenes. I Two Step Two was cast as the “blow by” Seabiscuit because he could turn on speed and blow by the other horses pulling into the lead. He was featured in the Seabiscuit festivities at the Louisville premiere of the movie on July 19, 2003 and was auctioned off at the charity fundraiser event that evening. Proceeds from the purchase of I Two Step Two benefited the Race for Education Foundation. Since that time, he has been featured in the daily Parade of Breeds presentation held in the park’s Breeds Barn. Surgery had been performed on I Two Step Two in December at Hagyard-Davidson McGee to remove a tumor from his nasal cavity. This type of tumor is rare in horses. Unfortunately, he did not respond to treatment and the tumor regenerated. After having consulted with several equine veterinarians and a human oncologist, the decision was reluctantly made to euthanize the horse. Like other horses who died in retirement at the park, I Two Step Two was buried in one of the park’s cemeteries. A very nice digital photo of I Two Step Two is attached. TRIGGER’S NEW TRICKS Kentucky Horse Park Introduces New “Best of the West” Trick Horseback Riding Show LEXINGTON, KY (February 28, 2005) Trick and fancy riding, whip cracking, trick roping and fancy gun handling are all part of the entertainment on hand for audiences in a new show being developed at the Kentucky Horse Park. Denny Chapman is the choreographer of the park’s new Best of the West show which will take place Thursdays through Saturdays at 12:30 pm beginning this spring. Along with his super talented, trusty equine partners Spanky, Dusty and Charlie (all American Quarter Horses), and occasional special guests, Chapman will thrill park audiences with professional horseback stunts. He and his horses fly together through hoops of fire, perform cowboy mounted shooting exhibitions, Roman riding and fancy ranch horse maneuvers. “These horses are like family members to me,” said Chapman. “Their training is based on a relationship of trust between them and me. I use positive reinforcement to encourage their natural behaviors and treat them with utmost respect. In return, they are willing to perform some pretty wild stunts that are a lot of fun for the audience. I admit they’re a bit spoiled, but they earn it.” A member of the famed Old Timers Rodeo and Wild West Performers Club and the prestigious Wild West Arts Club in Las Vegas, Chapman produces and performs in the Kentucky Horse Park’s renowned Parade of Breeds show. He is an active competitor in the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association, the American Quarter Horse Association, the National Reining Horse Association, the World Foundation Quarter Horse Association and the United States Team Roping Championships. John Nicholson, Executive Director for the park observed, “Denny can get his horses to joyfully carry out his directions in a way that most of us wish our kids and dogs would respond to us. These horses are obedient, well trained, professional, willing athletes, who enjoy their jobs and look for Denny’s direction and the audiences’ appreciative applause. This show is going to be a big hit with our park visitors.” He continued, “Thanks to a lot of patience and hard work, the horses have jobs that they love and the audience loves them.” For more information, contact Denny Chapman at 859-233-4303 or dchapman@kyhorsepark.com. You can also see great photos of Denny and his horses at http://community.webtv.net/chapman1/DennyChapmanandhis. New Season Schedule: From March 15-October 31, the park is open seven days a week. Admission is $14 for adults and $7 for children ages 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. Admission includes the Best of the West show and the American Saddlebred Museum BIRTHDAY BASH FOR JOHN HENRY Thoroughbred Champion Celebrates Equivalent of 98th Birthday at Kentucky Horse Park LEXINGTON, KY (February 24, 2005) According to The Blood-Horse magazine’s Thoroughbred Champions: Top 100 Racehorses of the 20th Century, the two greatest living Thoroughbred racehorses are Cigar and John Henry, both of whom reside at the Kentucky Horse Park. On Wednesday, March 9, the park will celebrate the birthday of John Henry, who turns 30 (roughly the equivalent of an 98-year-old human*) and the public is invited. John Nicholson, Executive Director for the Kentucky Horse Park stated, “It has been such an honor for us to have John Henry all these years because he is by all accounts, unquestionably one of the greatest racehorses of the century. He is highly intelligent and also happens to be quite a character who has kept us all on our toes for the 20 years he’s been living here at the park.” In spite of a rocky start, having passed through the hands of numerous owners and trainers early in life, under the eventual tutelage of trainer Ron McAnally, John Henry earned seven Eclipse Awards, including Horse of the Year two times, won 39 races and bankrolled $6,591,860. Carey Warner, author of Thoroughbred Champions wrote, “Of all the Cinderella stories that Thoroughbred horse racing has inspired in its hundreds of years of history, there has never been one quite like the tale of a knock-kneed, nasty-tempered gelding that I watched with awe and idolized in the early part of the 1980s. The legend of John Henry is the greatest of all the ‘Rags to Riches’ stories I've heard among many, many tales of legendary race horses…” Cathy Roby, who is the Hall of Champions Manager at the park observed, “John Henry still receives fan mail, gifts and cards from literally thousands of admirers. It’s a heart-warming sight when one of his fans sees John in person for the first time. We show video clips of some of his races before he makes his grand public entrance into our show pavilion three times a day. There is seldom a dry eye in the house when he saunters in to be applauded and cheered by his fans.” When a horse is cherished by his handlers, as John Henry has been for most of three decades, it makes all the difference in the world to his quality of life. He had one of racing’s finest trainers in Ron McAnally, legendary jockeys such as Chris McCarron, Bill Shoemaker and Lafitte Pincay, Jr., talented exercise riders, dedicated grooms and hotwalkers, a devoted owner in Sam Rubin (John’s eighth and final owner, who had the wisdom to send John to Ron McAnally for training), and outstanding veterinary care. In spite of his infamous crankiness at times, John has been wildly loved and respected by nearly everyone who has come in contact with him. John Nicholson continued, “When Chris McCarron was here at the park a few days ago to visit John Henry, Chris called Ron McAnally in California on his cell phone and put the phone to John’s ear so the horse could hear Ron talking to him. John’s ears pricked up with recognition as soon as he heard his trainer’s voice on the cell phone.” The festivities will include birthday cake, short video of some of John’s accomplishments, reminiscing with special guests from John’s past, and photos (unless John Henry changes his mind). The party will begin promptly at 1 pm in the Hall of Champions. “If there is one thing I could ask of the public on John’s birthday,” concluded Nicholson, “it would be to support Thoroughbred rescue organizations, such as the Secretariat Center here at the Kentucky Horse Park, in honor of John Henry. Many Thoroughbreds are not as fortunate as John has been, so if we can take this opportunity to do something to help a few at-risk Thoroughbreds, I think that will be a very appropriate, fitting tribute to this champion.” For information on John Henry’s birthday party, call 859-233-4303. The park will be open from 9 am until 5 pm Wednesday - Sunday through March 14; admission is $9 for adults, $6 for children 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. Admission includes John Henry’s birthday party and the American Saddlebred Museum. *According to Equus magazine’s age scale, to determine the age equivalency of a horse, start with his age, multiply by three and add eight. This puts champion John Henry at approximately 98 years of age. Keeping Old Dobbin Hale and Hearty LEXINGTON, KY (February 23, 2005) Do you know what it takes to keep your horse bright-eyed and bushy-tailed? Rosy-cheeked? Hunky-dory? In the pink? Fit and trim? If you’re not sure, the Kentucky Horse Park can help. On April 2, the park will offer Health Care for Horses, a five-hour course for horse owners and caretakers. Participants will learn to develop preventative health maintenance programs, and learn to recognize and deal with common equine health problems in a hands-on and lecture format. The fee is $45. Taught by Kentucky Horse Park Director of Education Margi Stickney and Instructor Sherry Whetzel, this is good, solid health care groundwork that covers such topics as worming and vaccinating. On May 14, the park will host another health care seminar called Healthy Horses, in partnership with the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). This all-day seminar will be taught be AAEP member veterinarians. The lectures and demonstrations will provide practical, up-to-date information on equine health issues for anyone who works with horses. For information on Health Care for Horses, contact Margi Stickney at 859-259-4206 or 259-4263, email education@kyhorsepark.com or click on “Education Programs” at www.kyhorsepark.com. For information on Healthy Horses contact Amity Brannock at 859-259-4225 or visit the AAEP website at www.myhorsematters.com. DO HORSES’ TEETH CHATTER TOO? Snowbird Dressage Launches Horse Show Season at KHP LEXINGTON, KY (February 16, 2005) Bundle up and grab a hot drink for the Snowbird Dressage series of competitions which will return to the Kentucky Horse Park on February 26 and March 26. Located in the Indoor Arena, the competition will serve as the last two of the winter dressage series and will be very competitive. The March show will decide the winner of the series championship. Approximately 50 horses and their riders from Kentucky and across the nation are expected to participate Dressage is a difficult discipline requiring significant athleticism from both horse and rider. It is often compared to ballet because of the difficulty involved and the corresponding beauty. The sport consists of a series of subtle maneuvers that are meant to emphasize the horse’s natural movement. The horse-and-rider teams perform in a rectangular-shaped arena that is marked with a series of letters. During competition, those letters serve as targets for particular movements. In dressage, horse-and-rider teams compete at different levels depending on their expertise. Participants are scored based on how perfectly the horse-and-rider team performs precise movements. All participants’ scores are compared at the end of each competition and the riders with the highest scores in each level receive awards. Competition for Snowbird Dressage is from 8 to 5:30 pm. For more information on Snowbird Dressage contact Julie Congleton (859) 846-4889, brittleskittle@alltel.net or Judy Tudor (859) 396-6503. The park will be open from 9 am until 5 pm Wednesday - Sunday through March 14; admission is $9 for adults, $6 for children 7-12. From March 15-October 31, the park is open seven days a week. Admission is $14 for adults and $7 for children ages 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. Admission includes Snowbird Dressage and the American Saddlebred Museum. Dear Friends of the Kentucky Horse Park: 2-15-05 In honor of Black History Month, we would like to invite everyone to take part in this national celebration by visiting the park and enjoying some of our year-round special tributes to African American horsemen. On permanent display in our International Museum of the Horse is the “Buffalo Soldiers” exhibit, honoring the all-black cavalry units of our military who served on the American frontier just after the Civil War. They endured four years of the bloodiest war in the history of the United States to win their freedom, and decided to try their wings on the open plains of the west. There, these battle-hardened soldiers and their brave horses were met by Mexican revolutionaries, hostile Native Americans, outlaws, comancheros and rustlers. The soldiers also faced fierce prejudice, dysentery, tuberculosis, diarrhea and bronchitis. At one time, Buffalo Soldiers (nicknamed by the Cheyenne and Comanche) constituted twenty percent of all cavalry forces on the frontier. Their contributions to the opening of the West were invaluable. Our Buffalo Soldiers exhibition is part of the African American Heritage Trail. An individual who we would especially like to honor during Black History Month is the outstanding African American jockey Isaac Burns Murphy who is buried here at the park. Isaac Burns Murphy will continue to live in history as one of racing’s greatest jockeys. Mr. Murphy soared to victory in three Kentucky Derbies and became the first back-to-back Derby winner and the first winner of three Derbies. We are very proud of the fact that we have been able to pay homage to this special athlete by providing a place of honor for his remains. Thousands of visitors stop for a reflective moment at Mr. Burns’ burial site at the park each year and he continues to be an inspiration. The American Saddlebred Museum here at the park is also featuring a special exhibit this year called The House of Bourbon: Bourbon County’s Saddlebred Kingdom, which includes a special tribute to the rarely recognized black horsemen of Bourbon County. We hope you will take an opportunity to visit your Kentucky Horse Park very soon. We have something to offer everyone. We also welcome school groups to tour the park and especially the museum, to learn more about these important aspects of our nation’s history. CHAMPION HORSE TO BE REBURIED AT KENTUCKY HORSE PARK LEXINGTON, KY (February 9, 2005) Joe and Sally Jackson and the Kentucky Horse Park announced arrangements for the reburial of the world champion Saddlebred Wild Eyed And Wicked near the Hall of Champions at the Kentucky Horse Park. “Wicked” was one of five Saddlebred horses injected with an unknown substance in June 2003. He and two other horses were destroyed, and two horses recovered. Wicked’s remains were exhumed last week from Double D Ranch near Versailles, where he had been trained, boarded and buried. Jackson and her husband have hired private forensic experts who are working with State Police to determine who and what killed the horse. On November 12, 2004, the Kentucky Horse Park Commission unanimously approved burial of Wild Eyed And Wicked’s remains at the park, and the accompanying erection of a suitable memorial to the champion. Walt Robertson, Chairman of the Kentucky Horse Park Commission, stated “We had hoped that Wicked would someday live at the Kentucky Horse Park when he was alive. That not being possible, we are proud to give him a final resting place of honor at the park's Hall of Champions." The Commission and the Jacksons have agreed on a location for the horse’s grave, adjacent to the Hall of Champions Pavilion and across the path from a large silver maple which is located close to the Pavilion. A tombstone specially designed by Sally Jackson, who is a bronze sculptor, will mark the grave and will be donated by the Jacksons. In addition, a pole-mounted plaque recognizing Wild Eyed And Wicked’s competitive achievements, owners and trainers will be placed at the grave site. The Kentucky Horse Park and the Jacksons also announced an intention to host a public memorial service to coincide with the reburial of the horse’s remains. It is hoped that this memorial service can be held in conjunction with the 2005 Lexington Junior League Horse Show, in order to allow as many Saddlebred fans as possible to participate. A champion in every sense of the word, Wicked was a two-time winner of the five-gaited Triple Crown. Sally Jackson stated “Joe and I sincerely appreciate the Commission’s enthusiastic support of the efforts to accord Wild Eyed And Wicked’s memory the recognition and dignity it deserves.” If Horsey Ain’t Happy, Ain’t Nobody Happy LEXINGTON, KY (February 9, 2005) “Dr. Phil, I own a horse but I don’t know much about him.” The predictable reply: “How’s that been working for you? More importantly, how’s that been working for your horse?” There are an estimated 200,000 horses spread across every county in Kentucky, most of whom appear to be very content. However, some of them are unhappy and an unhappy horse can develop very serious behavioral problems as well as expensive and life-threatening health problems. Horses are emotionally and physically complex creatures that require daily attention. Many owners want to take good care of their horses, but are not attentive to their needs simply because they don’t know better. Fortunately, this is a problem that can be easily and inexpensively corrected. The Basic Horse Care and Handling class at the Kentucky Horse Park on March 19 is a good step toward obtaining a better understanding of a horse’s needs. The park will offer this three-hour course designed to teach participants how to keep their horses happy, healthy and safe. The hands-on class will focus on providing proper living conditions, grooming, feeding, haltering, tying, leading and physical restraint. Taught by Kentucky Horse Park Director of Education Margi Stickney and Instructor Sherry Whetzel, who have 56 years of combined experience with horses, the goal of the course is to make the horse and horse owner much happier in their relationship with one another. More critically, it can literally mean the difference between life and death for a horse. “The more a horse owner or caretaker knows, the quicker problems can be averted or detected and dealt with,” said Stickney. “We want to assist folks in providing the type of care that these wonderful animals need and deserve. It’s important to understand the horse’s behavior by accurately interpreting their body language and other signals, and to learn to avoid stressful situations.” For more information on Basic Horse Care and Handling or other classes at the Kentucky Horse Park, contact Margi Stickney at 859-259-4206 or 259-4263, email education@kyhorsepark.com or click on “Education Programs” at www.kyhorsepark.com. ON THE TRAIL OF GREATNESS African American Heritage Trail Leads to Kentucky Horse Park LEXINGTON, KY (February 8, 2005) In celebration of Black History Month, the Kentucky Horse Park wishes to draw attention to its International Museum of the Horse. The museum offers a permanent “Buffalo Soldiers” exhibition which has been placed on the African American Heritage Trail. In addition to this tribute, the museum will also open an historical exhibition this spring called Kentucky Bloodlines: The Legacy of Henry Clay. Although a slave holder himself, Henry Clay wrote, “Slavery is undoubtedly a manifest violation of the rights of man." According to the Wikipedia encyclopedia, Henry Clay “was only twenty-two, when, as an opponent of slavery, he vainly urged an emancipation clause for the new constitution of Kentucky, and he never ceased regretting that its failure put his state, in improvements and progress, behind its free neighbors.” According to the U.S. State Department, “In 1816 a group of white Americans founded the American Colonization Society to deal with the ‘problem’ of the growing number of free blacks by resettling them in Africa. Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, John Randolph and Fernando Fairfax were among the best known Members. Ex-President Thomas Jefferson publicly supported the organization’s goals, and President James Madison arranged public funding for the Society.” Thus, the country of Liberia was founded, with its capital, Monrovia, named for President Monroe. The new Kentucky Bloodlines exhibition will include a reproduction of a rather controversial American Colonization Society certificate involved in establishing Liberia as a settlement for free slaves from America in West Africa. Although the motives of the Society members were questionable, Clay was, nonetheless, instrumental in establishing the Society, and served as its president from 1836 to 1849. Open from April 1 to October 31, the exhibition will focus most of its attention on the outstanding achievements and legacy of Clay’s Ashland Stud in the horse industry. This is the most recent installment by the museum that brought international blockbuster exhibitions Imperial China and All the Queen’s Horses to the United States. While the world remembers Henry Clay as one of the most significant and effective politicians and statesmen of his day, a good-natured bon vivant, charismatic communicator and controversial character, few realize that he was equally skilled as a progressive agrarian and stockman (he was the first to import Hereford cattle to the U.S. and introduced Gingko trees to the Midwest). In addition to an astute mind and famous quick wit, Clay was also possessed of a keen eye for fine horses, Thoroughbreds in particular, and was one of the leaders in establishing the Bluegrass region of Kentucky as the nation’s premier Thoroughbred breeding center. Clay’s stock was some of the finest in the Bluegrass, as he imported mares from Virginia and jacks and jennies from Spain and Malta to his Ashland Stud (also known as Ashland Thoroughbred Stock Farm. No less impressive, the blood of his foundation mares pulsed through the veins of 11 Kentucky Derby winners, two of which were foaled at Ashland Stud. The Kentucky Bloodlines exhibition is being offered in association with Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate, the Kentucky Historical Society, Keeneland Library, UK Libraries Special Collections, Dr Lindsey Apple at Georgetown College, the Simpson and LaBach families, Jeff Meyer, Sue Andrew and the Lexington Public Library. It will bring a fresh perspective to the fascinating story of Clay and his heirs, through their role in the development of Kentucky as a horse breeding mecca. It will be a rich and exciting opportunity for every Kentuckian to pay homage to its most famous native son, and for the horse industry to pay respect to one of its founding fathers. Included in this fascinating exhibition are racing trophies, original pieces of Henry Clay’s furniture, silver and paintings, along with Civil War and horse related artifacts from his descendants. For more information on the Kentucky Bloodlines exhibition, contact Bill Cooke, Director of the International Museum of the Horse, at bcooke@kyhorsepark.com or 859-259-4231. HANK, HORSES & HEREFORDS 2-7-05 Henry Clay Exhibit Uncovers Enormous Contribution to Kentucky’s Horse Industry LEXINGTON, KY (February 7, 2005) We think of Henry Clay as a larger-than-life statesman, orator and wealthy businessman, but most of the outstanding achievements and legacy of Clay’s Ashland Stud in the horse industry have been overlooked, until now. From April 1 to October 31, the Kentucky Horse Park’s International Museum of the Horse will honor this great American with an exhibit devoted to his equine prowess called Kentucky Bloodlines: The Legacy of Henry Clay. This is the most recent installment by the museum that brought international blockbuster exhibits Imperial China and All the Queen’s Horses to the United States. While the world remembers Henry Clay as one of the most significant and effective politicians and statesmen of his day, a good-natured bon vivant, charismatic communicator and controversial character, few realize that he was equally skilled as a progressive agrarian and stockman (he was the first to import Hereford cattle and introduced Gingko trees to the Midwest). In addition to an astute mind and famous quick wit, Clay was also possessed of a keen eye for fine horses, Thoroughbreds in particular, and was one of the leaders in establishing the Bluegrass region of Kentucky as the nation’s premier Thoroughbred breeding center. Clay’s stock was some of the finest in the Bluegrass, as he imported mares from Virginia and jacks and jennies from Spain and Malta to his Ashland Stud (also known as Ashland Thoroughbred Stock Farm. The success he achieved in his day carried into future generations of Clays and horses. Clay’s grandson, James B. Clay, was almost single-handedly responsible for introducing trotters to Kentucky, and his daughter-in-law, Josephine, became the first prominent Thoroughbred horsewoman in America (her father, Colonel William Russell, was blamed in news accounts for being the captain of what was described as the worst disaster on the trail to California, the infamous “Donner party.” No less impressive, the blood of his foundation mares pulsed through the veins of 11 Kentucky Derby winners, two of which were foaled at Ashland Stud. The Kentucky Bloodlines exhibit is being offered in association with Henry Clay’s home Ashland, the Kentucky Historical Society, Keeneland Library, UK Libraries Special Collections, Dr Lindsey Apple at Georgetown College, the Simpson and LaBach families, Jeff Meyer, Sue Andrew and the Lexington Public Library. It will bring a fresh perspective to the fascinating story of Clay and his heirs, through their role in the development of Kentucky as a horse breeding mecca. It will be a rich and exciting opportunity for every Kentuckian to pay homage to its most famous native son, and for the horse industry to pay respect to one of its founding fathers. Included in this fascinating exhibit are racing trophies, original pieces of Henry Clay’s furniture, silver and paintings, along with Civil War and horse related artifacts from his descendants. For more information on the Kentucky Bloodlines exhibit, contact Bill Cooke, Director of the International Museum of the Horse, at bcooke@kyhorsepark.com or 859-259-4231. RIDING HIGH AND FREE IN THE SADDLE 2-3-05 African American “Buffalo Soldiers” Honored at Kentucky Horse Park LEXINGTON, KY (February 3, 2005) They endured four years of the bloodiest war in the history of the United States to win their freedom, and decided to try their wings on the open plains of the Western frontier. There they were met by Mexican revolutionaries, hostile Native Americans, outlaws, comancheros, rustlers, fierce prejudice, dysentery, tuberculosis, diarrhea and bronchitis, but they were free, according to the International Museum of the Horse, which has chronicled the story of the Buffalo Soldiers in a permanent exhibit. On the up side, many of the black troopers which made up the Buffalo Soldier units overcame the illiteracy imposed by slavery, thanks to chaplains assigned to them in after-hours schools, and no less than 19 received the Congressional Medal of Honor. At one time, Buffalo Soldiers (so nicknamed by the Cheyenne and Comanche) constituted twenty percent of all cavalry forces on the frontier. Their contributions to the opening of the West were invaluable. For $13 a month, the battle-hardened Buffalo Soldiers and their brave horses subdued their adversaries: Geronimo, Sitting Bull, Victorio, Lone Wolf, Billy the Kid and Pancho Villa – a list that “reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ of the American West” according to the museum. They also “protected mail routes, built and maintained forts, established law and order, explored and mapped vast areas of the southwest, and strung hundreds of miles of telegraph lines.” There were only two recruitment offices for African American soldiers in the country, and one of them was in Louisville, Kentucky. In honor of “Black History Month,” the International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park would like to bring attention to its Buffalo Soldiers exhibit, which includes a video presentation. School groups are always welcome. For more information, call 859-233-4303 or visit www.kyhorsepark.com and go to “International Museum of the Horse.” Winter Season Hours and Rates: through March 14, admission is $9 for adults, $6 for children 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. The park is open from 9 am until 5 pm Wednesday through Sunday. Admission includes the American Saddlebred Museum. The Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm/theme park and equine competition facility dedicated to man’s relationship with the horse. An agency of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet, the park hosted 913,000 visitors and 80 special events and horse shows in 2003. The park is located at Exit 120, Interstate 75, just north of Lexington. The place to get close to horses, the park is open daily March 15 to October 31, and Wednesday through Sunday, November 1 to March 14. RIDING THROUGH HISTORY ON HORSEBACK KHP Welcomes Visitors to Pay Respect to Legendary Jockey Isaac Burns Murphy During Black History Month LEXINGTON, KY (January 31, 2005) As part of Black History Month, the Kentucky Horse Park would like to invite visitors to pay their respects to one of Thoroughbred racing’s greatest legends, Isaac Burns Murphy, who was born in Fayette County in 1861 and is buried at the park. John Nicholson, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park stated, “Isaac Burns Murphy will continue to live in history as one of racing’s greatest jockeys. We are very proud of the fact that we have been able to pay homage to this terrific athlete by providing a place of honor for his remains in our cemetery.” He continued, “Thousands of visitors each year stop for a reflective moment at Mr. Burns’ burial site here at the park. We also offer other opportunities for visitors to learn more about his remarkable career, as he continues to be an inspiration.” According to the African American Registry, “Isaac Burns Murphy was part of the superabundance of black jockeys in the history of horse racing. The horse racing sport was built with the talents of black people whose jobs typically included trainer, jockey, and owner.” The Registry continues, “He first worked as an exercise boy at Lexington stables…soon the incredibly talented Murphy dominated the sport of horse racing. In 1879, he won a record thirty-five of seventy-five races he entered. He won forty-nine of fifty-one starts at Saratoga in 1882, and on several days he rode winners in every race. Murphy's abilities earned him the best mounts of his era. He soared to victory in three Kentucky Derbies and became the first back-to-back and three-time Kentucky Derby winner! He retired in 1892 to become a horse trainer. He achieved a record 628 wins in 1,412 races during the fifteen seasons he rode.” Murphy was inducted into the Jockey's Hall of Fame at Saratoga in 1955. His body was re interred at the Kentucky Horse Park in 1977. Winter Season Hours and Rates: through March 14, admission is $9 for adults, $6 for children 7-12. Children six and under are always admitted free of charge. The park is open from 9 am until 5 pm Wednesday through Sunday. Admission includes the American Saddlebred Museum. |