The Other Side of Keeneland

Before the Fall racing season came to a close, I found myself greeting the morning at Keeneland.

On the last day of the meet, I decided to join my husband on the backside.

I followed him through barn after barn~

 It's within this idyllic setting that he helps horses to breathe easier.

Trying to stay out of the way, I focused my camera on other things.

Even though the backside is a hub of activity ~

I love how it's also the quiet side.

The hands-on dedication of grooms, owners, and trainers is admirable.

 The saddling paddock. 

The jockeys awaiting last-minute instructions and owners having one last look at their horses ~

It's all about tradition, fine horsemanship, and the finish line.

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.  

 Just around the bend at the Keeneland Sales Pavilion, Keeneland Cross Gate Gallery will present the

Sporting Art Auction of Fine Sporting Art, American Paintings and Sculpture.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Welcome to November my friends.

The fun has just begun!