We paid 40 bucks apiece to get access to the infield of Churchill Downs. With well over 150,000 expected to be in attendance, it was sure to be a wild day. As we entered, our bags were checked thoroughly for any liquid at all. We were also patted down to uncover any stashed flasks. (Luckily, some of the resourceful ladies I was with had poured various libations into ziploc bags and stuffed them in their bras). Anyone attending the derby is encouraged to purchase alcohol there for 8-10 bucks a drink.
I brought along my horse mask acquired in Japan and also sported my So Taguchi shirt, which proved to be a hit with Cardnials fans all day.
The spot we chose was not very close to the track, but during a few of the early races, we walked up to the edge to check out the race.
We walked around the infield a bit to check things out. A huge mass of people, some dressed nice, some dressed like wrestlers, a sight to behold indeed.
Kristina and I pose for a photo as we take in the action.
As the crowd started to clear out late in the day, the mass of garbage remained.
The cops were present all day, keeping an eye on things and taking the guys out who had too much to drink.
The military also made an appearance and managed to avoid tripping over the garbage when they marched.
This girl made the mistake of challenging me to a handstand contest just before we left the Downs. She was humiliated.
It was a pretty fun day. I learned a bit about betting on horses and only managed to lose about 15 bucks on the day. The Derby is quite a spectacle and it is interesting ot see such a huge event taking place only a few hours drive from where I grew up without the faintest idea that something like this existed. Maybe I'll go back next year.
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