Celebrating the vast contributions of African Americans in the horse industry.
We are digging into history and honoring the community by building connections and collecting stories.
Through educational, public and social activities, Phoenix Rising preserves, promotes and honors the vast contributions of African Americans in establishing the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky as the Horse Capital of the World.
Our name comes from the Phoenix Stakes, the oldest Thoroughbred stakes race in America — a race first run on the ground we call home.
Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, our grassroots organization uncovers histories lost to time, and celebrates those working in the horse industry today.
Celebrating the East End of Lexington, Kentucky
Home to four horsemen inducted into the National Racing Hall of Fame and countless other Black horsemen, the East End grew up around the Kentucky Association Track, the precursor to Keeneland Racetrack. Phoenix Rising works closely with the East End community to raise awareness of this important, and often unknown, history.
Isaac Murphy
Edward Dudley Brown
Ansel Williamson
Jimmy Winkfield
