In 2001, a committee was established to study the impact of bringing a new major sporting event to the central KY area. They decided to take on the monumental task of recreating the excitement generated by football classics across the United States. The vision was to bring entertainment, diversity, culture, and a sincere sense of pride to Lexington, Kentucky. As a result, the Lexington Heritage Football Classic was born and christened the "Clash in the Bluegrass" by the media.
The Toyota Heritage Football Classic collaborated with The Roots & Heritage Committee to make it a fun filled weekend of events. The Roots and Heritage Festival is a street fair celebrated annually and draws approximately 50,000 people from across the United States.

The primary purpose of the "Clash in the Bluegrass" is to expose and introduce students to Historically Black Colleges & Universities and to create scholarships.

The event was held on September 7, 2002 , the clash featured the "Blue Tigers" of Lincoln University against the "Panthers" of Clark Atlanta University. Recording artist Black Coffee, KiKi Wyatt, and BET Madd Sports commentator, Joe Clair made special guest appearances. Toyota held the title sponsorship. On that day, the Panthers were victorious over a powerful Lincoln University football team. Much excitement and enthusiasm was unleashed that day by spectators, sponsors, visitors, and the community that will continue for many years to come.  And with a few years under our belt we have attracted many notable celebrities, including Denzel Washington, Monica Calhoun, and Wingo of Jagged Edge just to name a few.  You never know who you will see in Lexington on Classic Day.

...And let's not forget the Ultimate Battle of the Bands. In 2002, a movie was made (Drumline) that epitomize college football marching bands. However, nothing compares to seeing the event up close and personal. An event usually reserved for larger cities made its way to Lexington, for the first time, the Battle of the Bands proved to be as powerful and entertaining as the football game. These show bands took the field with electrifying music and dazzling choreography. They showed up, showed out, and showed off, to make history in Lexington!!!

Previous Classics
2002 - Clark Atlanta University(14) vs. Lincoln University (12)
2003 - Kentucky State University (45) vs. Allen State University (0)
2004 – Kentucky State University (21) vs. Morehouse (19)