Klein Family Learning Center to Honor First 'Groom Elite' Graduates

The Kentucky Derby Museum's Klein Family Learning Center honored the first graduates of its "Groom Elite 101"class Tuesday during an annual horseman's picnic in the infield at Churchill Downs.

A total of 21 students participated in the first class of the center's Groom Elite Program, an educational program developed specifically for grooms who provide primary daily care for horses stabled at racetracks. The program is designed to prepare participants to deal with a full range of issues they may face during training and racing hours.

Each student that participated in the initial class earned certification as a "Groom Elite." A graduation ceremony was to be held Tuesday afternoon.

"The Groom Elite program is an excellent opportunity for horsemen to further develop their vocational skills," said Jennifer Hoert, director of the Klein Family Learning Center.

"The Learning Center is in an excellent position to support the horse industry with courses that increase our horsemen's knowledge and confidence in working with Thoroughbreds...and we hope to find sustainable funding to allow us to continue the Groom Elite program, as well as expand our services to further meet the needs of our horsemen."