all in Lifestyle

One requirement in her morning job is to not fight the horse. At night, well, it's closer to no holds barred.

That's the career tug of war, rare in this case, Chel-c Bailey faces most days. As an exercise rider and aspiring jockey, Bailey relies on finesse to keep a 1,100-pound Thoroughbred race-ready. Flip the emotion switch and she becomes Chel-c "Battle Born" Bailey, unbeaten MMA fighter. 

Cloudy skies and rain in the forecast for Saturday afternoon could not dampen the spirits of racing fans at Churchill Downs for the 145th  Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve. America’s Best Racing’s Penelope Miller was on hand to capture some of the most fashionable looks from the first Saturday in May as well as plenty of smiles.

I love to wander through the crowds at the Longines Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve to people-watch. I have a keen appreciation for fans who wear Derby-related clothing, equine jewelry, and whimsical hats. I noticed Libby Ludwig standing in line to have her photo taken at the Ram truck display (the official truck of the Kentucky Derby).

The minute I heard their voices, I knew exactly who they were and yet I had never met them before. I saw them on TV the night before. Local Louisville station WHAS was featuring “Derby for Dummies” and sending two of their newest employees to the Kentucky Derby for the first time. It’s easy to pick out a newbie at the Derby. There is a certain level of excitement in their voice and an aura about them that radiates joy and excitement. I was standing at the rail on the backside for the morning workouts and turned around to check them out. I said “I KNOW YOU!

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