Keeneland is trading racing forms for lesson plans as approximately 2,600 fifth grade students from 32 Fayette County schools take part in the annual Fifth Grade Field Trips through Friday, Aug. 28.

Around 500 students will visit each day for a hands-on look at Kentucky’s Thoroughbred industry, beginning with a mock horse auction in the Sales Pavilion. From there, students will rotate through interactive stations covering everything from jockey preparation and equine veterinary care to horse safety, racing’s economic impact and careers within the industry.

Students will even get some hands-on time with horses while learning about the life cycle and daily routine of a Thoroughbred.

Before heading home, each student will receive a Racing & Sales book with more information about Keeneland, Lexington’s racing history and the impact of the Thoroughbred industry across Kentucky.

The goal is show students that one of Kentucky’s signature industries is more than what happens on the racetrack and introduce them to the many careers and opportunities happening right in their own backyard.