As luck would have it with the Kentucky Derby right around the corner, we just happened to be driving through Lexington, the heart of horse country in Kentucky and decided to check out the Kentucky Horse Park. What began as a quick look-see, turned into a very pleasant three hour visit and much to our surprise, it was not only about thoroughbreds, but an exhaustive history of The Horse.
We started our tour at that great racer Man O’War’s monument and grave. Before entering the Visitor Center, we stopped at the magnificent sculpture of my favourite racehorse Secretariat, depicted along with his jockey Ron Turcotte and groom Eddie Sweat. Then on into the Visitor Center where we viewed the film ‘Thou Shalt Fly Without Wings’ before venturing further.
After a ride on a horse drawn trolley pulled by two of the ‘Gentle Giants’, in our case they were Suffolks, we went to the Parade of Breeds show exhibiting four different breeds. Each breed had a rider dressed in colorful costume. The large black Friesian horse pranced liked a ballet dancer, while the Spanish Norman’s rider was dressed like a gaucho. The Appaloosa had Annie Oakley on him and the Pinto held an Indian princess. Even Charlie the American miniature pranced and posed for us.
A quick stop at the Horses’ Cemetery where some famous trotters are buried before touring the Hall of Champions to spark our enthusiasm for the upcoming Triple Crown. But it was the International Museum of the Horse that wowed us. It features the history of this incredible animal beginning at prehistoric times to the present. Superbly done, one could spend a full day here.
Those who enjoy riding can take the Trail Ride through the Park and may see students being trained for upcoming careers in the horse industry. The Park is also host to all sorts of horse-related events throughout the season and some of these activities could be going on at any time during your visit.
While there, we saw posters publicizing the World Equestrian Games in 2010 to be held here, where a new stadium is being built to house them. That’s quite a coup for this Park as it is the first time in history these games will be held outside of Europe. If you are interested in the Games, better start planning your trip now.
Admission from March 15 to October 31 is $15 for adults $8 for children over 6.
From Nov 1 to March 14 $9 for adults and $6 for children. Seniors receive $1 off adult admission.
Story By Kay Loek Toronto News 24
Photos By Dick Loek
