First of the three gems in horseracing's Triple Crown series has its 133rd running on Saturday, May 5th. Even better - join the natives the Friday before for the KY Oaks.
Sparks of excitement flit across the dense crowd on the first Saturday of every May in Louisville. Some are fueled by mint juleps, some by the the array of fanciful hats, but most by the sheer magnitude of emotions of being at the Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby.
May 5, 2007 marks the 133nd Derby Day and whether you are in Millionaire’s Row, out on the infield or watching the event on TV, few cannot help but be moved as the University of Louisville begins the opening strains of the Commonwealth’s beloved song, “My Old Kentucky Home.”
Called “the most exciting two minutes of sports”, the race matches three year old thoroughbred horses against each other as the opening leg for the “Triple Crown” of thoroughbred racing.
With this year’s favorites (subject to change) including Nobiz like Shobiz, Scat Daddy and Street Sense many will be partying in the infield, under the legendary green spires, where the “Run for the Roses” can be a blur of multi-colored silks, horseflesh, and dust. Ready for the races?
Although Grandstand seats are often handed down as family heirlooms for $40.00 anyone has the chance to stand in the infield. Come early and be prepared for any kind of weather. Dressing in layers in advisable, and pack a poncho as umbrellas are not allowed at Churchill Downs.
The Friday prior is the Kentucky Oaks, which residents have long referred to as “their Derby” as the tourist numbers are greatly reduced. Second only in attendance to the Derby itself, the fashions might be a little less but the fun is still flat out. Prices for infield are reduced too at $25.00 for admittance.
Wherever and whenever you observe the festivities hunger and thirst are bound to occur. Burgoo, a spicy stew, is served into papercups with saltine crackers as accompaniement.
Bourbon is a mainstay in Kentucky, and on both Oaks and Derby Day it is a long held tradition to serve it with crushed ice, a bit of water, sugar and a sprig of mint. Over 120,000 juleps are consumed over the two days.
Unable to make the races?
The track’s famed green spires will always welcome you.
The Kentucky Derby Museum is located just outside the gartes of Churchill Downs. Included with the admission is a choice of walking tours from the Insider’s Tour through the Jockey’s Quarters, Millionaire’s Row’s Row and the Press Center to the Backside Tour through the paddock and infield area.
If the 360-degree multi-media presentation of the previous Derby Days fails to excite you – check your pulse.
You must be dead!
For more Kentucky travel ideas:seustravel.suite101.com/article.cfm/american_whiskey_trail
seustravel.suite101.com/article.cfm/kentucky_s_durable_pleasures
