My UK Traditions

There are many exciting times throughout the year for students at the University of Kentucky.  None have been more exciting than the last few weeks when both our men's and women's teams made a run in the NCAA, with our men’s basketball team winning the national title.  However, as UK students recover from the  triumphant basketball season, another UK tradition is already here…Keeneland!

 

When I first came to UK, I had no clue what Keeneland was.  I quickly found out through interactions with upperclassmen that Keeneland was a 75 year-old thoroughbred racetrack located a few miles from campus.  Upon my first visit to the track, I fell in love.  There were students everywhere.  Everyone was dressed in their Sunday best, which was a nice change from the shorts, sweatpants, and t-shirts I was accustomed to wearing/seeing in my classes.  It was a beautiful day in the bluegrass and made for a nice break from campus life.

Keeneland stands are ready for opening day on April 6th.

As I’ve become more acquainted with Keeneland festivities, I’ve made a lot of memories with a lot of great friends.  A few highlights from my Keeneland experiences include:  attending College Scholarship Day (students get in free and can register for 10 $1000 scholarships that are given away!), seeing many of my favorite UK athletes, and winning $50 on a $2 bet!

As the first day of races begins tomorrow, you can bet that tons of students will be in attendance to enjoy the scenery and pageantry that come with a day at Keeneland.  Keeneland is open for live racing during October in April each year.   More information can be found at www.keeneland.com.  Hope to see you at the races!

 Cody is a junior at the University of Kentucky, majoring in Community & Leadership Development and Agricultural Economics.  He is from Greenville, Kentucky.  This summer, Cody will be an intern with the Cooperative Extension Service in Muhlenberg County.  He is President of the Agriculture Student Council and is a COA Agricultural Ambassador.