This year’s Kentucky Derby was like no other because the weather refused to cooperate. Usually the weather prevails during the Derby and the sun can make a brief appearance after the call to the post.  This year, the heavens opened up and it poured rain. It was not just a sprinkle, nor was it a shower. It didn’t mist or drizzle. It out and out poured rain and drenched everything.

Given the acreage they require, their seasonal existence and the unique cultural ecosystem of people who live and work on the backstretch, horse racetracks tend to function as cities unto themselves.

During Triple Crown telecasts, cameras capture regally dressed spectators, meticulous grounds keeping and, of course, the innate beauty of the Thoroughbreds set to duel on the dirt. What might be happening outside the walls of these enormous facilities is largely left to the imagination, other than a cursory glimpse at clichéd regional pastimes or well-known edifices.