Tom Pedulla is interviewing prominent owners, trainers and jockeys as they travel the Road to the 150th Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford ReserveMay 4 at Churchill Downs.
I am often asked what my favorite racetrack in America is, and I always say Keeneland and Saratoga Race Course. Keeneland has a special place in my heart because I have attended trunk shows for the opening weekend and the Toyota Blue Grass Stakes for 17 years now.
Horses, specifically Thoroughbreds, have been in my life for most of my 37 years on this earth. My first horse was a super-green off-the-track Thoroughbred (OTTB) that today would probably be too much horse for a regular 10-year-old. But what did I know? He was super-sweet on the ground, loved attention, and was an absolutely gorgeous dark bay. Under saddle, he was completely different: a hot ball of nerves. But boy, was he talented despite his quirks. He really taught me how to RIDE. We developed an incredible bond and did everything together. This solidified my love of Thoroughbreds.
On the first weekend in May for the 150th time the mint juleps will be flowing for one of America’s most historic sporting events: the Kentucky Derby, where horse racing meets high fashion in a whirlwind of extravagant hats and dapper suits.
Fans flocked to Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Ark., for the racetrack’s signature card on March 30, featuring 13 races topped by the $1.25 million Arkansas Derby, a prep race for the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve.
