Thoroughbred Class Experiences Unforgettable Trip

Mariah Farmer Photography

Students in the 2019 Thoroughbred Horse Industry course pose around the statue of Triple Crown winner Affirmed at the Jonabell Farm.

This past May, 12 undergraduate students had the opportunity to participate in a class that focused on the Thoroughbred industry and culminated in an unforgettable trip to Lexington, Kentucky. Led by Kathi Jogan, a faculty member in the Department of Animal Sciences, the class was given unique access to many of the industry's world-class facilities. 

Students visited Keeneland racetrack, along with numerous elite breeding facilities located around Lexington, including Darley, Spendthrift, Claiborne, Winstar, Taylor Made and Gainesway Farm. In addition to these breeding facilities, the class made stops at major equine veterinary practices such as Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, Haygard's Equine Hospital, and KESMARC, which is a well-known equine rehabilitation facility. Each of these visits allowed students an unprecedented opportunity to meet and speak with equine veterinarians and farm managers.

"I learned more about the Thoroughbred industry within a week walking around the greatest farms in Lexington than I could have ever learned from any number of textbooks," said AnnaLee Parker.

Highlighting the trip were opportunities to see two legendary Triple Crown winners, American Pharoah and Justify; leading sire, War Front; Arrogate, earner of over $17 million; and champion race mares, Beholder and Rachael Alexandra. Students were also able to visit with University of Arkansas graduates who currently work in the industry, including Brianne Sharp, market research coordinator at Godolphin's Jonabell Farm; Laura Kirkely, who works at Haygard's Equine Hospital; Jordan Peyton, who works at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital; and Rachel Knox, who manages broodmares at Stone Street Farm.

"This trip was one of the best opportunities I have had at the U of A," said Gabrielle Abbott. "It allowed me a once in a lifetime chance to visit and learn about so many incredible and influential racehorses and the people that care for them."

The 3-credit-hour Thoroughbred Horse Industry course is offered every other year during the spring semester. The trip to Lexington is embedded in a 1-credit-hour class offered in the first summer session for students who have completed the Thoroughbred Horse Industry course.