Kentucky Derby 2011

Plans got a little out of whack this week. Won't go into everything, but the end result was that at the last minute, we didn't have a place to stay. We made the best of it though and saved some money while we were at it, by driving up and back the same day.

I had never been to Churchill Downs but the location was not at all what I expected. Very much in town and near the airport. I think I expected something a little more rural.


We made it!
Brett at the entrance statue.
Making friends in the wagering line.

And they're off! This was our view of the race. It may not seem like much, but it was exciting and we actually got a great spot for being on the infield.

The Derby really has 3 different zones. 1. The classy section that most people know about and vision when they hear about The Derby. 2. The family half of the infield. Think race car fans on a Sunday picnic in the park. 3. The party half of the infield. Think Bonnaroo meets Woodstock.

We had a great time and when we were leaving said that we would do it again. And then came trying to get out. It was a lesson in patience and God help you if you were claustrophobic. I had push my way to the outer edge a few times myself just to be able to breathe. All in all it took about 2 hours to get onto the shuttle bus. Standing in line doesn't bother me. I don't like it, but it is what it is. This however, was complete chaos and lacked any sort of logistics. After enduring that part, I think next year will be a Derby Party at home.