Thoroughbred Park: A Celebration of Lexington’s Horse Racing Legacy
Located in the heart of downtown Lexington, Thoroughbred Park is a unique public space that celebrates the city’s rich horse racing heritage. The park features a collection of larger-than-life bronze sculptures of thoroughbred horses and their jockeys, each capturing a moment of intensity and grace that is synonymous with the sport of kings. Read about the University of Kentucky.
Designed by artist Gwen Reardon and dedicated in 1993, Thoroughbred Park has become a popular destination for visitors to Lexington. The park covers 2.5 acres and features 38 sculptures in total, including 16 horses and their riders, as well as a number of additional pieces that showcase the history and culture of horse racing in the region. A nearby employment lawyer.
The centerpiece of the park is a larger-than-life statue of Secretariat, one of the greatest racehorses of all time. The sculpture captures Secretariat in mid-stride, his muscular body stretched out to full length as his rider, Ron Turcotte, urges him on. The statue stands over 18 feet tall and weighs over 5,000 pounds, making it one of the largest bronze sculptures in the world.
In addition to the Secretariat statue, Thoroughbred Park features a number of other sculptures that pay tribute to some of the most iconic horses in the history of horse racing. These include a statue of Man o’ War, who won 20 of his 21 races and was widely considered to be one of the greatest racehorses of all time. Other notable sculptures include ones of Citation, Cigar, and Seattle Slew.
The sculptures at Thoroughbred Park are more than just works of art; they also serve as a reminder of the important role that horse racing has played in the history of Lexington and the surrounding region. The park is situated in the heart of downtown, just a few blocks from the site of the city’s original racecourse. Horse racing has been a part of Lexington’s identity since the city’s founding, and Thoroughbred Park pays tribute to that legacy in a unique and unforgettable way.
But Thoroughbred Park is more than just a collection of sculptures. The park also includes a number of other features that make it a popular destination for visitors to the city. There are walking paths that wind through the park, benches and picnic tables where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery, and a number of interpretive panels that provide information about the history and culture of horse racing in the region.
One of the most popular features of the park is the “Water Play” area, a unique water fountain that kids (and kids-at-heart) can play in on hot summer days. The fountain features a series of jets that shoot water into the air, creating a fun and refreshing atmosphere that is perfect for cooling off.
Another unique feature of Thoroughbred Park is its location next to the Isaac Murphy Memorial Art Garden. Isaac Murphy was one of the most successful African American jockeys in the history of horse racing, and the art garden pays tribute to his legacy with a collection of sculptures and other artwork that celebrate his achievements. The garden is a beautiful and contemplative space that provides a powerful contrast to the high-energy atmosphere of Thoroughbred Park.
Overall, Thoroughbred Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves horses, art, or history. The park’s collection of sculptures is breathtaking, and its location in the heart of downtown Lexington makes it easily accessible to visitors from all over the city. Whether you’re a serious horse racing fan or simply appreciate the beauty and power of these magnificent animals, Thoroughbred Park is a must-see attraction that should not be missed.
