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Students at the Derby

December 3, 2020
equine student riding a horse at churchill downs

For the first time in history, the 2020 Kentucky Derby was run without fans on the first Saturday in September. Two Equine students work for trainers that had horses running in the Derby.  Here is what they had to say about this unique Derby Day:

Many people dream of having a horse in the Derby but never get the chance to. While 2020 brought unforeseen circumstances to the typical Derby atmosphere, the excitement when the starting gates opened and the love for the horse remained. I am incredibly blessed to have experienced the Derby for a second year with Team Casse, and with a horse who holds a special place in my heart, like Enforceable.

Isabella Leslie

The show must go on! And it certainly did. The running of this year’s Kentucky Derby was not only historic but also proved a point that no matter what the circumstances are, horse racing always endures. Being part of a team with a runner in the Derby is all the validation this New Orleans boy needs for knowing I made the right decision to come to Kentucky.

Corey Barbarito