Celebrating the 28th Anniversary
October 2-5, 2008

"Experience the Horse"Allows Spectators and
Up-Close-and-Personal Visit with Horses

Lexington, Kentucky, July 31, 2007-The Festival of the Horse, a 26-year tradition in Georgetown, Kentucky, is adding a new event this year, sponsored by the Kentucky Horse Council.

"Experience the Horse" will offer visitors the opportunity to pet, groom, lead and PAINT a horse. These friendly horses have been chosen specifically because of their wonderful personalities and interest in people. Information tables will provide facts about horse ownership, taking riding lessons, land preservation, trail riding, etc.

In addition, for the excitement of spectators, there is HORSE GAMES, where participants will compete in games which challenge their riding abilities. Riders of all abilities are welcome to come and play; spectators welcome as well. The Games promise to be fun to do, as well as fun to watch.

Experience the Horse also offers a tour of thoroughbred horse farms in Scott County. Buses will be available to board in downtown Georgetown, which will take the visitors to the farm tour as well as drop them off at the Fairgrounds to participate in the horse activities and watch the Fun and Games show. The tour includes an explanation of the farms' impact on the community and the economy, as well as facts about horse farm operations.

"This event is exactly what we would like to see at festivals throughout the Commonwealth," says Madelyn Millard, President of the Kentucky Horse Council. "Often the general public, who watch the Derby or read headlines about horse events at the Kentucky Horse Park, never get to actually participate in a hands-on activity with a horse. It is important that everyone appreciates this wonderful animal who brings so much joy, as well as business, to the citizens of Kentucky.

For more information on the Experience the Horse event, contact the Kentucky Horse Council office at 859-367-0509 (800-459-4677) or info@kentuckyhorse.org.

The Kentucky Horse Council is a statewide, all-breed non-profit group which is committed to the horse and horse owners, their activities, and the horse industry environment through focused education, communications, and financial benefits. The Kentucky Horse Council is the official affiliate of the American Horse Council, located in Washington, DC, a national organization representing all segments of the horse industry.

For information contact: Ginny Grulke, Executive Director
Kentucky Horse Council
4063 Iron Works Parkway, Ste. 2
Lexington, KY 40511
859-367-0509 office
859-533-7002 cell