Opening Night at Churchill Downs

There were thousands of people at the opening night of racing at Churchill Downs. Our tour guide from the day before had given us a tip- where to stand for the 1 1/16th races because the starting gate would be right in front of us.

It was quite fun! The horses started right in front of us and then came around again right before they finished.

I was surprised both times they started in front of us because it was so quick. As soon as they get the last horse in, they're off!

We met some nice people after they commented on the Fascinators Faith and I were wearing. I made them out of leftovers from my Princess Half marathon tulle skirt and flowers I had purchased but not used. Rick and I partook in Mint Juleps

The mild evening took a turn for the worse with thunder, lightning and hail. We were told to seek shelter and we did.

The track was a mess afterward, but the races went on.

We let the kids bet with $10 each. Becca doubled her (our) money, but the rest of us were not so successful. It was a good lesson- none of the kids bet all of their ten dollars after seeing that it’s not a guaranteed return race after race.