May 1: Churchill Downs Pre-Derby Tour

 One of the highlights of this rally was to be able to go to Churchill Downs before the big race to see it without all the crowds. 

The day began with breakfast on the level of the Downs that is called Millionaires Row.  On the day of the Derby seating for this section is in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Flo and Co in line for the breakfast buffet.

 After breakfast we watched the Derby contenders check out the track.

A view of the grounds with the finish line post in the lower right hand corner and the infield in the background.

Look closely at the photo below...it is a replica of Churchill Downs made from glass. 

 It is 30' long, 10' wide, and 10' high with 4000 individually  pieces, from the horses on the race track to the people in the stands,   all from glass. It was truly amazing!

 

 
 

 Some other highlights of the Downs was the museum highlighting previous races and Derby winners.

 

   a sampling of hats

 

 

And then we were taken to the stadium to see our seats.  We were quite pleased with the location.