SOLUTION
We created an anthem to the Thoroughbred industry: a piece that would create a sense of pride in everyone who devoted their lives to the Thoroughbred, from grooms to groundskeepers to jockeys, trainers and owners.
Celebrating the Thoroughbred industry’s life’s work
How we helped Keeneland connect with horsemen and horsewomen across the world
What we did
Brand Strategy
Creative Direction
Copywriting
Photo/Film Direction
Film Production
Press Releases
Media Relations
Insights
Working with horses isn’t a job—it’s a way of life. It’s something that may not be obvious when you’re enjoying a beautiful day at the races, but those in the industry know that every winning moment is powered by the hard work of countless people behind the scenes.
That dedication to hard work defines the people and brands who choose to make horses their life’s work. It’s a legacy, something passed down from generation to generation. And it’s something that Keeneland, more than any other brand, understands deeply.
Keeneland stands alone at the top of the industry: the only organization to combine world-class racing with world-renowned sales, driven by a mission to improve the industry. Keeneland and the Thoroughbred world are inextricably tied together—so when it came time to make Keeneland’s first national television spot, we needed to capitalize on that unique position.
STRATEGY
Founded by horsemen, Keeneland has always been defined by its relationship with the people who make up the Thoroughbred industry. By recognizing the hard, gritty, often-unglamorous work of these people—work that can go unseen or unnoticed— Keeneland could prove that it understands them better than anyone. This gave us the opportunity to forge a deep, genuine connection with Keeneland’s audiences, stand out among the clutter of other commercials, and solidify Keeneland’s place as a leader within the industry—a leader who understands what it takes to make those winning moments happen.
Results
With more than 365,000 people reached and 212,000 views across social platforms, plus nearly 4,000 shares, the spot spread quickly through the tight-knit Thoroughbred industry and beyond, with reactions coming in from across the globe. In addition to coverage in a variety of local and industry publications, the spot was also featured in Communication Arts Magazine.
The universally positive reaction to the spot has led to a continuing campaign, with short videos highlighting individuals within the industry.
Perspective
“We were aiming to make something that spoke to the Thoroughbred industry, but judging by the reception it’s gotten, we created something that resonated with the larger horse industry across the world. The social response we’ve seen—people and organizations from all over the world, from casual horse fans to industry professionals to farms, sharing the video with their friends and networks—has been the proof of how resonant this spot is with that community.” – Leslie Miller, VP, Director of Brand Management
Perspective
“Throughout the whole process, we made sure to prioritize authenticity—from featuring real people doing real work and using industry photographers to getting Ted Bassett for the VO. We just showed the truth of the brand—the depth of their history and their deep understanding of the industry. That history gives Keeneland a unique position in the Thoroughbred world, and it meant they were really the only ones who could do something like this spot.” – Chris Barnes, Associate Creative Director