Sunday, April 11, 2010

And they're off..........


Most people believe that the greatest two minutes of horse racing takes place the first Saturday in May. A little thing known as the Kentucky Derby. Though if you are from the great state of Kentucky, you know that is not the case. Yes the Derby is cool, but you spend a lot of money for two minutes. That is why in Kentucky we love Keeneland more than the Derby.

Today was a gorgeous day so mom, dad, Drew, and I headed to Lexington to spend a day at the races. Keeneland race track runs in April and October, everyday of the week except Mondays and Tuesdays. Here is the great part...there are nine races a day. So instead of just one 2 minute race, you get nine of them!

We love taking out friends to Keeneland if they are in town during racing season. Though if you plan on visiting the horse capital of the world during April and October there a few "must know" before hitting the track.

Dressing Up: When people think of the Derby they think of hats and dresses. Well Keeneland has just that, especially in the spring. 80 percent of the people that come to the races dress up, so it is a great excuse to go out and buy a new dress or shirt and tie. Drew and I love to dress up for the races.



All Beef Franks: Once you get in the gate and get a seat, it is time for food. We suggest trying the All Beef Franks, they are delicious. If you want to try something Kentucky-ish, try the Burgoo and let me know how it is. Somewhere between the 6th and 7th race, I usually make an ice cream run. Of course, there is alcohol around every corner to counteract your betting.

Betting:
I will admit, I love to gamble. Not like I have a problem, but I'm way too chicken to do many things illegal so this is my only fix. What you need to know: $2 on horse # ___ to win, place, or show. Choosing your favorite horse to show allows it to come in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd; covering your butt in case you don't know much about horse racing. If you choose it to place it must come in 1st or 2nd, and choosing win - well you get that one. Of course, you can bet more money, but it is easier to lose just $2. Sometimes you can even make like $10 back on your $2, that is exciting! #12 was my big winner of the day!

People Watching: Perhaps, the best part of going to Keeneland is to people watch. From the drunk college girls in their heels and miniskirts to the rich horse owners, there is wide variety of people for your viewing entertainment.

One of my favorite stories today was a mother fighting her three year old little girl. This little girl was throwing a fit right in the middle of the horse viewing paddock. She was literally laying on the ground screaming. The nice security man came up to the mother and told her that the horses were going to be coming through and that this little girl howling would scare them. He then told her that she must move her child away from the area immediately. (I know that this will one day be me, but until then it is funny)

Although I want to go to the Derby one day, Keeneland will satisfy my horse racing-betting-people watching needs every April and October. If you are ever in the area during these months we would love to take you to the races! So here's an excuse to buy a hat and dress and off to the races.....

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