One of the classic Kentucky experiences is, of course, visiting the famous horse races. For just a few dollars you can enter the races and stay as long as you like, watching the horses warm-up, race, and enter the winner's circle. Though the main event is of course viewing the stunning and pampered horses, it is nearly as entertaining to watch the people the races attract. There are lots of regular Joes, getting their kicks from nickel wagers. They generally fill the standing-room-only area and get drunk on cheap beer while cheering on their various cash-cows (or horses). Then there are the serious patrons. These folks are in a league of their own. Betting is both a business and an art for them. Some of them own the horses racing and others own different things, like small countries. They dress to the nines and mingle with each other, viewing the races over their expensive wine, in plastic cups.
At the finish line!
In front of the winner's circle
