The US Department of Veterans affairs reports that more than 78,000 veterans died by suicide between 2005 and 2017, and the numbers have been climbing since then. Recently, during National Suicide Prevention month, Bravehearts, an Illinois-based equine therapy group held a special event at the Kentucky Horse Park to raise awareness about the issue. WUKY Horse Capital reporter Samantha Lederman has the story.

Horse Capital with Samantha Lederman

This Was No Ordinary Ride: Equine Group Raises Awareness For Military Veterans, Suicide Prevention

Visit Horse Country has been one of Lexington and Central Kentucky’s success stories since it’s inception in 2014. Now numbering about 40 members including horse farms, equine medical clinics and horse attractions it has solidified it’s place on the tourism map and in many visitors’ hearts. With travel restricted due to the Coronavirus pandemic and all visits essentially shut down, Executive Director Anne Hardy recently spoke via Skype to explain how they’re coping during these difficult times and to hype a host of activities lined up for what was supposed to be Derby Day in Kentucky.

No Derby? No Problem As Equine Groups Take The Fun Online

Horseback riding is a dangerous sport, and while there are plenty of safety studies that concentrate on jump technology, or horse physiology, historically there hasn't been much attention paid to the impact rider strength and fitness can have. But as Horse Capital reporter Samantha Lederman tells us that's beginning to change, thanks to UK Eventing Team Strength Trainer Tony Sandoval.

Horse Capital: 'We're Going To Redefine Equestrian Performance'

The United States Equestrian Federation cut the ribbon on its new headquarters at the Kentucky Horse Park Friday morning. WUKY Horse Capital reporter Samantha Lederman has details.

Equestrian Federation Cuts Ribbon On New Building

If you live in Central Kentucky there's a pretty good chance you've spent a day at Keeneland, and you've probably heard the races called by the track announcer, Kurt Becker. WUKY's Horse Capital Reporter Samantha Lederman recently spent some time getting to know more about what it takes to be the Voice of Keeneland.

Horse Capital Reporter Samantha Lederman Spends A Day In The Booth With 'Voice Of Keeneland'

Thousands of horse enthusiasts will again gather at the Kentucky Horse Park this weekend for BreyerFest - a three day extravaganza bringing the model horse world to life. Kids and adults alike can take part in the many workshops, free seminars and shopping, all while meeting some of the horses that inspire the models. Every BreyerFest ticket includes a FREE Limited Edition Breyer figurine, created just for the event. And as WUKY’s Horse Capital Reporter Samantha Lederman tells us, this year’s guest of honor is a popular fixture of the horse park.

'Rock Star' Officer Oliver Featured Celeb At BreyerFest

Racehorses are high performance, high earning athletes, and as such, no stone is left unturned to make sure every minute advantage is capitalized upon. Horses on the back side have their own personal grooms, trainers, massage therapists, chiropracters, blacksmiths, and as Horse Capital Reporter Samantha Lederman discovered; even dentists.

A Day In The Life Of An Equine Dentist

Footwear is important for any athlete and when it comes to the equine world there's an old adage; "no foot, no horse." There's a lot that goes into making sure horses are properly equipped. WUKY's Horse Capital Reporter Samantha Lederman recently paid a visit to the Kentucky Horseshoeing School where an intense annual contest was being held.

Horse Capital: Farriers; The Unsung Heroes Of The Equine World

The Kentucky Journal of Equine, Agriculture and Natural Resources Law will hold it’s fifth annual Symposium Wednesday February 27th. WUKY’s Samantha Lederman has the details.

Law Group To Hold Equine Symposium At UK Wednesday

The grounds of the Henry Clay estate at Ashland Park are home to over 400 trees representing 44 species. When a black maple on the corner of Sycamore and Richmond Road died in the Spring of 2013, leaving just a stump on the busy intersection, local artist Kiptoo Tarus had an idea. WUKY’s Samantha Lederman has the rest of the story.

Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate Enlists Artist To Bring New Life To Dead Wood

The Kentucky Horse Park is again hosting a prestigious competition this weekend. WUKY's Samantha Lederman has a preview of the 10th annual USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship.

Top Hunters And Jumpers To Vie For $300,000 This Weekend At The Kentucky Horse Park

We're all familiar with the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, but there's another Derby about to take place on the other side of the world. The Mongol Derby is the world's longest and toughest horse race, and Lexington has an entry this year. WUKY's Samantha Lederman recently spent time with the hopeful.

Lexington Based Equestrian Hopes To Bring Home Mongol Glory

What happens to racehorses once their careers on the track are over? Thoroughbred Aftercare is gaining more and more exposure, with Justify's connections committing a portion of their Triple Crown proceeds to the cause. As Horse Capital Reporter Samantha Lederman explains, the biggest showcase of all for off the track thoroughbreds is right here in Lexington every Fall. In fact a bonafide second act celebrity will be a guest of honor this weekend at Breyerfest at the Kentucky Horse Park.

Breyerfest Fans Will Get Up Close With A Bonafide Celebrity This Weekend

The United States Equestrian Federation broke ground at the Kentucky Horse Park Friday for a brand new headquarters. WUKY's Samantha Lederman was on hand and filed this report.

US Equestrian Federation Breaks Ground On New HQ At KHP

WUKY Horse Capital reporter Samantha Lederman recently took her daughter on an organized tour to see Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome and discovered a whole new cottage industry celebrating Central Kentucky's equine excellence. The approach is not unlike the highly successful Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Horse Country Draws Inspiration From Bourbon Trail Success

Veteran WUKY reporter Samantha Lederman's beat is all things equine - from trail riding to top-level competition and everything in between. Samantha's reports provide a vital window into Lexington's reputation as the "Horse Capital of the World."

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Horse Capital with Samantha Lederman

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