Ep 17: Derby & Horses, a conversation with Coolmore America Ashford Stud

It's Derby season in Kentucky's capital city, and this week Dr. Ellie Hasken-Wagner sits down with Susan from the legendary Coolmore America Ashford Stud in Versailles to celebrate one of the most exciting times of year for Frankfort and the entire Commonwealth. From the energy of the Governor's Derby Celebration in downtown Frankfort to the storied legacy of Thoroughbred breeding right in our backyard, this episode is a love letter to Kentucky horse country. Susan represents Coolmore Ashford Stud, the Kentucky home of Coolmore America — one of the most celebrated Thoroughbred breeding operations in the world. Nestled behind historic stone walls in Versailles, Ashford Stud is part of a global operation with major farms in Ireland and Australia. The farm is home to some of the most sought-after stallions in North America, including Triple Crown and Breeders' Cup Classic hero American Pharoah, Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus, and newly added Eclipse Award winners Sierra Leone, Fierceness, and Citizen Bull for 2026. Coolmore has earned its worldwide reputation as the "Home of Champions." In the Episode:  - What it's like to work at one of the world's premier breeding operations, right here in the Bluegrass - The legacy of American Pharoah and what it means to stand a Triple Crown winner - What excites the team about the upcoming breeding season - How Coolmore's Kentucky, Ireland, and Australia operations work together on a global scale - The public visitor experience at Ashford Stud — what guests can expect when they come to see the champions Key Links & Resources Downtown Frankfort Derby Day Events: downtownfrankfort.com/derby Coolmore Ashford Stud: coolmore.com/en/america Visit Frankfort: visitfrankfort.com Horse Farm Tours: visithorsecountry.com