The Pisgah Farms & Furlongs Half Mare-thon showcases the equine heritage of Central Kentucky with a route through four iconic horse farms: Ashbrooke Farm, WinStar Farm, Buck Pond Farm, and Ashview Farm.
Starting and ending at Ashbrooke Farm, runners follow scenic Pisgah Pike, Williams Lane, and Paynes Mill Roads. The 13.1-mile route features 11 hydration stations spaced every 1.5 miles, offering water and Gatorade. With an elevation change of 699 feet, the entire course is on paved surfaces.
The Pisgah Farms & Furlongs Half Mare-thon begins and ends its scenic journey at Ashbrooke Farm. Runners start by looping through the farm and exiting via the main entrance. From there, they turn right onto Pisgah Pike, then left into the main entrance of WinStar Farm. After completing a one-mile loop through WinStar Farm, runners continue on Pisgah Pike before making a right turn onto Paynes Mill Road. They then proceed onto Williams Lane for a long out-and-back stretch before returning to Paynes Mill Road. Next, runners turn right into Buck Pond Farm for a short out-and-back segment before continuing on Paynes Mill Road.
The course then takes a right into Ashview Farm, passing by the farm office near a small lake. After completing a square loop through Ashview Farm, runners return to Paynes Mill Road and turn right onto Pisgah Pike. Finally, they make a left into the main entrance of Ashbrooke Farm to complete the loop through the farm and reach the finish line.
Versailles, Kentucky, holds a rich history and cultural significance deeply intertwined with its equine heritage. As the county seat of Woodford County, Versailles is renowned for its horse farms and racing traditions. The town’s name itself is derived from the Palace of Versailles in France, reflecting its early aspirations of grandeur and elegance.
Versailles played a pivotal role in Kentucky’s development as the “Horse Capital of the World.” The area’s fertile soil and favorable climate attracted early settlers who established thriving horse farms and breeding operations. Today, Versailles remains a hub for thoroughbred horse breeding and training, with some of the world’s most prestigious farms located in the surrounding countryside.Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Woodford County Courthouse, a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture, and the Kentucky Castle, a luxurious hotel and event venue with a fascinating history.