I’ve just returned from the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby! This was not my first Derby, in fact it was a reunion trip to the Derby with college Rodeo Club girlfriends. In our college days we road tripped from Michigan State University – Go Green! – to experience the race.
Back then, our trip involved the infield party crowd. Very fun, however now with a few years and more disposable income we decided that the grandstand on the other side of the track was more to our liking. So, the planning began. Many emails, text messages, photos of dresses and hats between us, we all arrived in time to enjoy the Oaks on Friday. We had not attended the filly races in our youth, so this was a bonus as the six of us “fillies” descended on Churchill Downs.
Oaks day after entering the gate to the track we immediately grabbed a drink – something I’m sure we did on our road trip days! Somethings never change. As we walked the grounds it felt like no time had passed at all. Just six horse crazy girls, now women attending another horse event.
After we found our seats, we became fast friends with those around us and watched each other’s belongings to bet, get food and more drinks! We discussed horse favorites for the day’s races and celebrated those who picked a winner. It’s amazing how events like the Derby can bring people together.
On Derby Day, after learning the lay of the land and negotiating the crowds the day before, we decided to bet on all the days’ races first thing to eliminate the long lines for betting later in the day. I’m happy to report that one of my friends bet the Derby winner Maga and was a big winner! Derby Day was magical as it always is whether you are at the race, at a Derby party or watching at home. Whether you are an equestrian, horse lover or simply a sport enthusiast there is nothing like the majesty of these equine athletes with their glimmering coats, bulging muscles and speed, as their thundering hooves race to the finish line.
The weekend was filled with colorful outfits, food and drink – Oaks Lilies and Derby Juleps, shopping, betting and so much fun with special women whom I had shared a very important time in my life. It had been many years since I had seen them and if not for social media may not have reconnected. At the end of our weekend together we decided that like the movie “80 for Brady” we’d better get planning our next adventure!
