The University of Kentucky Ag Equine Programs will host the second annual Horsey Hustle 5K April 1 at Coldstream Park in Lexington beginning at 10:30 a.m. EDT. A virtual component is also available. Event proceeds benefit the program’s Student Experience and Applied Education Fund.

“We are excited to bring back the UK Horsey Hustle 5K for a second year. We are expanding the fun to include food trucks, family friendly activities and a silent auction following the race,” said Kristen Wilson, senior academic coordinator and event organizer. “The Wildcat Wrangler equine student ambassador team has done a fantastic job and is excited to increase the event’s fundraising efforts this year.”

Registration is $35 through the morning of the event and includes a t-shirt while supplies last. Virtual registration is also available for $22. Donations can be made from the registration page for those unable to attend. Onsite registration begins at 9:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to bring a chair or picnic blankets for relaxing and enjoying the activities after the race.

“This is a fun event developed and organized by equine science and management students. Importantly, all the proceeds will directly benefit our Student Experience and Applied Education Fund, a program that supports equine-related student enrichment activities and initiatives,” said James MacLeod, director of UK Ag Equine Programs. “You can run or walk, organize a team or bring friends and family members. Spring is the perfect time for outdoor activities, so please join us and support our students.”

Now in its second year, the Student Experience and Applied Education Fund has already benefited several students directly and opened opportunities for others.

Braden Heath, a junior in the Equine Science and Management undergraduate program, received money from the fund this year and plans to resurrect UK’s Horse Judging Team.

"We are in the early stages of the team, but we are hoping that these funds can help go toward travel to compete in judging competitions. Our coach, Mr. Tim Jedra, is a well-known stock horse judge and hopes to take us to many competitions throughout the year,” Heath said. “This club is a new opportunity for me and others. I came to UK with little horse experience, and Tim took me under his wing and has helped me become a better horseman. This money will help me and other team members gain new experiences and network with others in the industry." 

Another recipient benefiting from the fund is the UK Saddle Seat Team. Emily Brown, a senior in the Equine Science and Management undergraduate program and team president, headed up the application.

"The UK Saddle Seat Riding Lesson Scholarship is an opportunity for Equine Science and Management students to receive hands-on riding and horse care experience outside of their degree with the UK Saddle Seat team at Wingswept Farm in Nicholasville, Kentucky, acting as facilitators,” she said. “The ideal award recipients are equine students who might have little hands-on experience with horses, paired with little means to obtain such experience outside the classroom, but are eager to learn more about working in the barn and riding.”

Event sponsors include American Saddlebred Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association; Aurora Pharmaceutical; Claiborne Farm; Equine Alumni Affiliate Network; Fasig-Tipton; Godolphin; Hallway Feeds; Hagyard Equine Medical Institute; Park Equine Hospital; Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital; Spendthrift Farm; Spy Coast Farm; The Jockey Club; US Equestrian; and Westbrook Stables.

To register, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2023/71657/uk-horsey-hustle-5k-runwalk.