Honoring Ruffian’s Enduring Legacy
Born and raised at historic Claiborne Farm for breeders Stuart S. Janney, Jr. and Barbara Phipps Janney, Ruffian remains one of the most dominant fillies in racing history. Undefeated in her career, she was known for winning races by extraordinary margins and setting stakes records, captivating fans with her unmatched speed and determination.
“Few horses have ever possessed the brilliance of Ruffian,” said Walker Hancock, President and CEO of Claiborne Farm. “She ran with a rare combination of speed and grit that defined excellence. Although her career was unfortunately brief, her impact on Thoroughbred racing remains immeasurable. We are so happy that she will be celebrated and memorialized with a mural in downtown Paris.”
A New Mural Honoring a Legend
The 2026 Legends event will debut the fourth mural in four years (the third mural funded by Legends of Bourbon County) in downtown Paris, once again created by acclaimed equine artist Jaime Corum.
“I am beyond honored to be asked back to paint a fourth mural in beautiful downtown Paris!” said Corum. “This time I’m especially excited to paint the first filly of the group—the Mighty Ruffian! She is truly one of the great ‘Lady Legends’ of Bourbon County! Let’s hear it for the fillies!
Celebrating Bourbon County’s Equine Heritage
“Paris, Kentucky is historically well known for our Horses, History, and Hospitality,” said Betty Ann Allen, Tourism Executive Director of the Paris-Bourbon County Tourism Commission. “Our rich equine heritage is a driving force in, not only economic development, but also the tourism industry. Thousands of tourists visit Bourbon County horse farms every year. Claiborne Farm, for example, hosts an average of 11,000 visitors annually.
“Our historic downtown currently features three beautiful equine murals by artist Jaime Corum. Her first mural features ‘Big Red’ and towers above Secretariat Park. Curlin graces the building across the street, and Sunday Silence is high above Main Street on Hotel Thoroughbred. A walking tour of our downtown, with this addition of Ruffian at the corner of 7th and Main, is the icing on the cake!! when you come for the day or stay for a weekend getaway you will love our Legends.”
The Legends of Bourbon County Festival will take place Saturday, September 26, 2026 and Sunday, September 27, 2026 in historic downtown Paris, Kentucky
Event schedule:
- Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 – Fall Meet Gala & Ruffian Mural Dedication at Hotel Thoroughbred, with the official dedication of the Ruffian mural at Frames on Main Gallery owned by well-known photographer, Bobby Shiflet.
- Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026 – Downtown Paris Family Festival, a free, family-friendly celebration showcasing Bourbon County’s Thoroughbred heritage through interactive experiences, entertainment, and educational activities
This annual festival honors the equine legacy of Bourbon County and features equine art, industry showcases, and community events. Ticketing for the gala will open in May 2026.
- Visit legendsofbourboncounty.com for ALL the information!
- Contact legendsofbourboncounty@gmail.com for questions regarding the event.