11/1/13

The Other Side of Keeneland

Today I was up early to greet the morning at Keeneland before the Fall racing season comes to a close.
The Lisa Porter Collection
I decided to join my husband on the backside.
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
I followed him through barn after barn~
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
 It's within this idyllic setting that he helps horses to breathe easier.
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
Trying to stay out of the way, I focused my camera on other things.
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
Even though the backside is a hub of activity ~
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
I love how it's also the quiet side.
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
The hands-on dedication of grooms, owners, and trainers is admirable.
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
 The saddling paddock. 
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
The jockeys awaiting last-minute instructions and owners having one last look at their horses ~
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
It's all about tradition, fine horsemanship, and the finish line.
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
The world’s best Thoroughbred horses, owners, trainers, and jockeys come to compete in April and October ~ However, Keeneland also plays host to many year-round events including the November horse sales, the Keeneland Concours d'Elegance, and the Bluegrass Trust Antique and Garden Show just to name a few.  
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
 Just around the bend at the Keeneland Sales Pavilion, Keeneland Cross Gate Gallery will present the
Click to View Catalogue
This inaugural auction represents an inspired collaboration between the world’s largest Thoroughbred auction house and the country’s premier gallery of fine sporting art and contemporary British figurative painting.
Sporting Art Auction
Among the auction’s most important pieces are several by Munnings, including Blue Prince II, a 26 1⁄2” x 39 1⁄4” painting commissioned by Thoroughbred owner and breeder Walter Jeffords. Munnings, who died in 1959, is regarded as one of the world’s finest equine painters.
BLUE PRINCE II WITH HARRY CARR UP ON NEWMARKET HEATH by Sir Alfred J. Munnings
Art, Antiques, Cars, Gardens ~ and Horses ~ don't forget the horses…oops!
Hmmm. I have no segue here so I'll just ask ~ Are you prepared for winter? I'm not.
Keeneland Fall 2013 | Photo Lisa Porter
The Keeneland Gift Shop, which also happens to be the best holiday shop in town, will be hosting a Barbour Trunk Show and Reproofing event from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on November 4th & 5th.
Barbour Reproofing Events
Welcome to November, my friends.
The fun has just begun!
Photo Courtesy Keeneland Association