The Kentucky Derby weekend has always been a special weekend for me. Going back 30 years, my family took a trip to the Derby. It really was something special to see. The excitement in the air and could be felt and I remember the Goosebumps on my arms as the race began.

Back then, I was just a tot and I had a beautiful horse named Trigger. No, not the one from the Long Ranger but as you see, growing up on a farm we watched all the western TV shows and movies. After the races I really thought Trigger and I would one day be in the race and win. I didn’t really realize that Trigger was WAY too old and I was WAY too young. (BTW: I keep a picture of Trigger with me on most trips and returning once from overseas customs stopped me and asked me who the cute YOUNG blond boy was and why I had a picture of him. I smiled and said it was me when I was 10 and that is Trigger. Thanks for thinking I am cute." They let me pass.)

But, ever since that day, I have watched with anticipation the Derby. I have been lucky enough to see races at all the Triple Crown tracks. I was reminded of how special this time was when I overheard a little boy in the grocery store today telling his friend not to call during the running as his family will not answer the phone.

I have long since lost my desire to race but I still love riding.

http://www.churchilldowns.com/

Oz, you still love "riding" or you love riding perhaps both.

Derby is always a blast to watch and I love the pre-race all day festivities on TV. We had an informal event here at a local Bistro and each year we all flock their to watch the derby on the big scren and have a few cocktails. Always a total joy!

Thanks for sharing

RussianRob

The KY Derby is truly the "Greatest 2 Minutes in Sports". The excitement and activites at Churchill Downs that day and the energy in the whole town is hard to explain if one has never experienced it first hand.

I have been to the last 31 Derby's, I have actually WORKED everyone of them. But even working the event you experience the excitement. There is nothing like the feeling you get hearing the playing of My Old Kentucky Home as the horses come out on the track.