Sights and Thoughts from Day 1 of My Breeders' Cup Week

Wow, yesterday was an eventful day! I left Lexington around 5:30 a.m. to drive to Louisville so I could be on the backstretch for training hours, talked to a few trainers about their Breeders’ Cup Turf (gr. IT) contenders, saw several of the European horses try out the Churchill dirt and turf for the first time, experienced Zenyatta’s arrival in Louisville, where she will attempt to defend her title in the Classic (gr. I), and attended the post position draw luncheon for the 14 Breeders’ Cup races.

Then I got to work, transcribing, deciphering notes, and writing about everything I experienced. Here are some of my photographic highlights from throughout the day Nov. 2:

A Breeders' Cup horse galloping at Churchill Downs

Photographers, videographers, and reporters observing morning workouts at Churchill

Beethoven (BC Mile contender) takes to the Churchill track

All is well with Biondetti (BC Juvenile contender) the morning of Nov. 2

BC Turf morning line favorite Workforce tries the dirt before venturing onto Churchill's turf course for the first time. Apparently, it was too firm for his liking and his trainer, Sir Michael Stoute, may decide to scratch him. Friday, Nov. 5 is decision time!

Zenyatta arrives via police and helicopter escort at Churchill and receives a very warm welcome from more than 100 spectators!

Zenyatta's first taste (in a long while) of Kentucky grass. Hopefully it wasn't too dry for her!

Zenyatta, performing her infamous side step dance for an adoring audience.

Have you ever attended the Breeders' Cup? What have been some of your most memorable sights and experiences?

Read my Breeders' Cup coverage so far here, here and here