The University of Kentucky Ag Equine Programs at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment will host the third annual Horsey Hustle 5K April 14. Event proceeds benefit the program’s Student Experience and Applied Education Fund, established to support UK students in gaining horse experiences, both academically and recreationally. 

“This year’s event is Derby-themed and will be really fun,” said Savannah Robin, lecturer of career and professional development within UK Ag Equine Programs and program liaison with the Wildcat Wranglers, a student equine ambassador group and this year’s event organizer. “We’re hopeful that this event will highlight our equine industry in Central Kentucky and be a way to connect various communities to what we’re doing at UK and within the industry.” 

Wildcat Wranglers, who have helped lead past events, reflected on what this event has meant to them. 

“Being a part of Horsey Hustle last year was a wonderful experience,” said equine science and management senior Jaida Alee. “My favorite aspect was how the event brought everyone together. Everywhere you looked, there were smiling faces. We were able to create a sense of belonging among the participants, not only with the race, but with activities and food.”  

Equine science and management junior Loralye Page, part of the event organizing team with Alee, shared how the event has evolved over the years. 

“I have loved seeing the Horsey Hustle grow over the past two years. It went from just a 5k to being a whole day event that students, alumni and families could enjoy,” she said. 

The Student Experience and Applied Education Fund has benefited several students and opened opportunities for others. One example from this year includes a grant to help offset costs for Wildcat Wranglers for transportation to industry and outreach events — providing a bridge into the equine industry as students are learning and building networks.  

Chloe Young is one of these students. Funds will enable her to attend the upcoming International Society of Equitation Science (ISES) conference in New Zealand. There, Young will present her research to an audience of equine researchers, veterinarians and practitioners involved in different disciplines from around the world. 

“This is my first time completing research at UK and I am very thankful for the opportunity I have been given,” Young said. “I am extremely excited to get to present my work at the ISES Conference, enhancing my research background for graduate school applications and my future career.” 

Members of the college’s pre-law organization said the award will enhance their educational experiences for equine and promote law and policy within agriculture and equine industries to other interested college students. 

“This fund is an amazing way to offer new experiences to our equine students,” Robin said. "Riding lesson scholarships, paying for conference registrations, supporting various activities and spaces for equine students to learn and grow, this fund is making a difference in the lives of our students. Seeing the equine industry come together to support our students is really exciting.” 

Event Sponsors 

In line with the Derby theme, the “Win” sponsor is Stonestreet Farm. “Place” sponsors include EJMS CPA, The Jockey Club, Kentucky Equine Education Project, Spy Coast Farm, Neogen and VisitLex. “Show” sponsors include Ardent Animal Health, Ed Brown Society, Godolphin, Hallway Feeds, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital and UK Equine Alumni Affiliated Network. In-kind sponsors include KBC Horse Supplies, Kentucky Horse Park and the U.S. Hunter/Jumper Association.  

“We are grateful for all of our generous sponsors,” said James MacLeod, director of UK Ag Equine Programs. “This event offers so much, and spring is the perfect time for outdoor activities. We welcome all to join us and support our students.”  

Registration is $35 and includes a T-shirt for those registered by the early bird March 10 deadline. For those unable to attend, but who wish to make a donation, visit the registration page. 

Onsite registration begins at 9:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to bring a chair or picnic blankets. Event location is the Coldstream Park, located at 1850 Pisacano Drive in Lexington. 

To register or make a donation, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2024/84793/uk-horsey-hustle-5k-runwalk.

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