Lexington Equine Medical Group has donated more than $11,000 to the Kentucky Horse Council, specifically earmarking the funds for the Council’s efforts in Eastern Kentucky. The funds were raised from the LEMG’s inaugural Hunter Pace and 5K held at the Kentucky Horse Park earlier this year.

The LEMG Hunter Pace boasted 217 riders on 80 teams; it welcomed all breeds and disciplines, and offered friendly competition in jumping, non-jumping and pleasure divisions. Runners and riders were encouraged to wear costumes and tailgate; all divisions were placed through sixth, with the top three teams receiving additional awards. Custom belt buckles were awarded to the Top Male and Top Female runner in the 5K.

The event was such a resounding success that LEMG has announced that hunter pace competition will be held over two days in 2025 to allow even more people the opportunity to ride over the iconic Kentucky Horse Park grounds and to raise additional funds for the Kentucky Horse Council. The Hunter Pace will be held September 6 and 7, and the 5K will take place the morning of September 6.

“The success of the event in its inaugural year is a testament to the power of the Kentucky equine community,” said Dr. Rocky M. Mason, founding partner of Lexington Equine Medical Group. “The 5K itself was classically Kentucky: Nearly 70 runners were led over the hunter pace course by riders on horseback, giving them a race experience like nowhere else in the world. In addition, over 200 riders from across the Bluegrass and neighboring states descended on the Kentucky Horse Park for the opportunity to ride in support of the Kentucky Horse Council. It was a fantastic day seeing riders of all ages and disciplines enjoy their horses and support such a great cause. We look forward to a bigger and better event in 2025!”

“The Kentucky Horse Council is deeply thankful for LEMG’s dedication to the health of all Kentucky horses,” said Sarah Coleman, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Council. “We are honored to be the recipient of this financial gift and look forward to doing even more good work in Eastern Kentucky with it.”

See complete Hunter Pace results here.

See photography from Rachel Milewski Media here.

Learn more about Lexington Equine Medical Group here.

Can’t run or ride, but want to support the work the KHC does? Donate here: kentuckyhorse.org/Donate

ABOUT THE KENTUCKY HORSE COUNCIL: The Kentucky Horse Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and development of the Kentucky equine community through education and leadership. The KHC provides educational programs like large animal emergency rescue training and livestock investigation training; networking opportunities; personal liability insurance through individual and family memberships; and financial assistance programs for horse owners in need through the Save Our Horses (SOHO) fund. Learn more at kentuckyhorse.org.