Surrounded by the beauty of the Kentucky Horse Park, First Lady Jane Beshear presented a proclamation declaring Saturday, August 15, 2009, as the Fifth Annual Hats Off To Kentucky's Horse Industry Day.

"I can not think of a better way to celebrate our signature horse industry than to invite everyone to attend a day of festivities at the Kentucky Horse Park," said First Lady Beshear. "I encourage all Kentuckians to join in the fun on Saturday for the Hats Off to Kentucky's Horse Industry Day."

Hats Off Day is held every year to celebrate Kentucky's horse industry and recognize the major impact the horse industry has on the Commonwealth of Kentucky. All Kentuckians are invited to the Kentucky Horse Park for a free afternoon of family fun and exciting equine activities including free pony rides, free pictures on a pony, educational booths, interactive equine stations, demonstrations of all eight World Equestrian Games disciplines and free hats while supplies last. These events are leading up to the Rood &Riddle Kentucky Grand Prix, a premiere show jumping competition.

The Rood & Riddle Kentucky Grand Prix, a challenging show jumping competition between top international horses and riders, is the featured evening entertainment of Hats Off Day. The competition will take place in the new Kentucky Horse Park outdoor stadium, which will also be used for many exciting events including the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Activities will begin at 2 p.m. Eastern time with arena performances starting at 5 p.m. Admission and all activities are free. Shadwell Farm is the title sponsor of Hats Off Day, with Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital and Alltech serving as presenting sponsors.

For more information, please visit www.hatsoffky.com.