We are now on the pathway to the track. Guess owners and trainers need a gentle reminder (see sign).
The light at the end of this tunnel is bright sunshine on the Churchill Downs track. It must be a moment that truly prompts the heart to pound harder, whether human or horse. Note the ground surface. It looks like pavers, but is made of recycled tires that cushion a Thoroughbreds' prancing walk.
Across the track is the famous winner's circle. This area is used only on Derby Day. It looks pretty tame now, but if you've ever watched the race, you know how many people are crammed into the space.
The fancy boxes on top are known as "Millionaire's Row", where all the celebrities hang out. Even for them, Derby Day is a no credit or debit card event. Can you imagine how many stacks of cash must be piled on the table up there?
How about these lovely front row sections of green folding chairs? On Derby Day, once you tally up all the associated costs, anyone can buy a section for a mere guaranted $6,000. Bleachers are slightly cheaper. Or take your life and liberty in your own hands and opt for standing room only in outer fields of the track. According to our guide, it's a wild place to party...and the perfect opportunity to use that "get out of jail free" card.
The Derby is known for it's towers (the twin to this one is on the right) and...
arguably the most famous finish line in horse racing.
We'll wrap up our tour next time, back inside the museum.
4 comments:
Very cool. We saw the show Under Cover Boss and it was the Kentucky Derby guy..
Benny & Lily
Great pictures. Wouldn't you just love to be there during Derby Week. What a thrill.
Pat, I see YOU there, in your fancy hat watching YOUR horse racing to the finish line. :)
So cool! What fun it would be to attend during Derby Week. I don't know anything about horses except that they are beautiful. :)
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