Life's Work
Since its founding, Keeneland has been dedicated to giving back to the Thoroughbred industry. As part that mission, the Life’s Work project is dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing the stories of those who have devoted their lives to the Thoroughbred.
Oral Histories
The Keeneland Library introduces the Life's Work oral history project, designed to capture treasured stories from the Thoroughbred industry and preserve and promote them for future generations.
When embarking on this unique project, The Keeneland Library collaborated with University of Kentucky Libraries' Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History and Thoroughbred Daily News. The initiative features interviews with prominent figures in the industry conducted by respected journalist Chris McGrath.
LIFE'S WORK: ORAL HISTORY
John Williams
Former general manager of historic Spendthrift Farm, John Williams shares tales of his lifelong career in the Thoroughbred industry.

Life's Work: Claudio Fabian, presented by...
If there’s one thing Claudio Fabian knows, it’s horses. Born and raised in Guatemala, Claudio grew up riding and tending to his grandfather’s horses. So,
December 2, 2020
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Life's Work: Catherine Parke
Catherine Parke never looks at her watch. Her job doesn’t have hours. She doesn’t clock in or clock out. As the owner of Valkyre Stud, she might be up in the
October 22, 2019
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Life's Work: Danny Ramsey
Danny Ramsey’s day starts at 3:30 in the morning. He wakes up, works out, then reports to the track to gallop horses for trainer Kenny McPeek. It’s a pretty
July 18, 2019
Read MoreJohn Williams
Former general manager of historic Spendthrift Farm, John Williams shares tales of his lifelong career in the Thoroughbred industry.
May 28, 2020
Gary Lavin
Widely respected equine veterinarian Dr. Gary Lavin shares the tales of his career and the great horses he worked with in this installment of Keeneland's Life's Work oral history project.
March 30, 2020
Gus Koch
Former manager of the historic Claiborne Farm, Gus Koch recounts his career with countless famed Thoroughbreds and the industry's impact on his family in the February installment of the Life's Work oral history project.
February 3, 2020