LEXINGTON, Ky., --The Kentucky Proud Evenings series continues Monday, April 29, with Jennifer S. Kelly talking about her book, “Sir Barton and the Making of the Triple Crown.” Fayette County office of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service hosts the free monthly series, which celebrates Kentucky’s rich literary culture with author discussions and samples from Plate It Up! Kentucky Proud recipes.

Sir Barton ignited the racing world in 1919 when he aced the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes, forever uniting those three into the glory that is the Triple Crown. Kelly’s book is the first to focus on the champion Thoroughbred, his career and his historic impact on horse racing. Kelly charts how Sir Barton broke track records and bested other champions. This book reveals the legacy of Sir Barton and his seminal contributions to Thoroughbred racing 100 years after his pioneering achievement.

A former technical writer and English instructor, now full-time writer, Kelly is a self-professed racing fan.

“No preparation or prior reading is required. This is the perfect way to kick off Derby season. Jennifer Kelly is passionate about Thoroughbred racing and promises to be an interesting speaker,” said Liz Kingsland, Fayette County family and consumer sciences extension agent.

Kentucky Proud Evenings begin at 6 p.m. at the Fayette County Extension office, 1140 Harry Sykes Way in Lexington.

Make reservations for the event by calling the Fayette County Extension office at 859-257-5582. Kelly will be signing copies of “Sir Barton and the Making of the Triple Crown,” which will be available for sale that evening.

UK Cooperative Extension Service is part of the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, which is dedicated to improving people's lives through excellence in education, research and outreach.