Nice pictures.

I lived in Louisville for three years in the mid 90s.

I was able to see many of the Derby events you listed.

My boss at the time had some racing connections and we were able to go backside at Churhill Downs.

It was great because we were among the Derby horses, trainers, jockeys and celebrities that were being interviewed.

If you ever get a chance to go backside during Derby Week, do it.

Thanks Dusty, I'm glad you liked the pics.
The backside is a great place to visit. I've never watched the Derby from that location though.
I have been there at other times during the spring or fall meets; watching morning workouts and chatting with the trainers and the hot walkers.
I've had breakfast at the track kitchen a time or two..I love how the horses streak past the big picture window while I'm sitting on the other side of the window at the table with my plate of eggs.

I'm talking about the backside where all of the barns are, not the infield where everyone goes to watch the Derby.

We were within a few feet of the horses, trainers, etc.

This was also around dawn when the horses are working out.

Hi Dusty..
Yep, I , too, was talking about the backside of the track where the barns are.
It's fun, isn't it? It's a whole new perspective of Churchill Downs.

Some friends are part of a horse syndicate and during meets their horse is stabled at Churchill Downs.
I've gone with them several times during the racing seasons to watch the morning workouts from the backside and to have brekkie at the track kitchen. After we eat, we walk through the barn area and end up with a visit to their horse of the moment.
The backside isn't open to the general public on a regular basis. But I do believe there are tours given from time to time.


Yesterday's visit to" Dawn at the Downs " was entirely different ...that event is open to everyone who wants to go. We had breakfast at the Skye Terrace and then watched workout from the rail at the Finish Line.