And we couldn’t make the third….  With two long days ahead at the track for the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, it seemed wise to get some rest from this busy schedule.  With needing to commit over six hours to the Pegasus Parade and dinner,  we had to miss another opportunity to see the horses work out.

Two out do three trips wasn’t bad.  I managed to get good photos of every Derby contender.  I was not as fortunate with the horses running on Friday in the Kentucky Oaks.

Dawn at the Downs is a totally free event (assuming you park in the free parking lot.  You walk in, right up to the rail between 7am and 9am. Bring your coffee and enjoy watching these incredible athletes work out.

For those who want more, you can come for a breakfast buffet on Millionaire’s Row where you can dine and watch as an expert explains what’s going on and gives you plenty of info and history. You can also visit the gift shop and get an early start on getting your treasures.

Not every horse works every day.  A lot depends on their trainers needs.  Perhaps they get a quick gallop around the track or maybe it’s just a walk around to get used to the track and distractions.

It also gives you good practice at getting in and out of the track and an opportunity to learn where your seats are.