Sunday, June 17, 2012

A Day at the Races

This was supposed to be the year.  The year the streak was finally broken.  I'll have another was going to be the one to win it...until he wasn't.  Devastated, I made my way on the LIRR to the Preakness convinced that the day was going to be a disappointment.  The old man sitting next to us stories quickly helped me to overcome my disappointment over losing my chance to see a triple crown winner with I'll have another scratching.  I heard about:


  • Secretariat winning the triple crown: "it wasn't even close...the rest of the horses were just starting the final turn when he crossed the finish line
  •  other tracks to visit: "Saratoga is a real horse track.  You can see the horses actually warm up and then walk to the track..they are close enough to touch!"
  • the derby: "the Kentucky Derby is a rich mans track.  It's easily my least favorite"
  • and the Kentucky horse auctions: "I was scared out of my mind that they were going to think I was placing a bet so I kept my hands firmly entrenched at my side.  I've never seen 10 million dollars spent before...but in 5 minutes, that's exactly what I saw"
The stories though  weren't the only part of the day I loved.  The whole event was amazing!  Getting there at the very beginning of the day, I was able to fully appreciate the venue, the crowds and the excitement of seeing one of the big 3 races.  The best part though?  Easily wearing a ridiculous floppy hat that I never in a million years would wear at any other event! 

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