Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky
Dawn at the Downs, frontside version
Hands-on
Outrider ponies are the hands-down favorites for some visitors.
Big screens flank the winner's circle
The Winner's Circle
It's used for one race every year, featuring a garland of roses.
Paddock view
The back of the main grandstand area overlooks the paddock where horses are saddled.
No children on view this morning
Stalls for racers are on the right; fans line the rails to get a view as the horses walk the small oval of the paddock before heading to the track.
Don't be fooled by imitations
The jockey staircase
This temporary structure leads to a gate into the paddock, giving the crowd a good view of each race's riders.
Derby owner boxes
Nestled below the Twin Spires, they afford easier access to the ceremony site.
GOAL!
Tom's Ready
He was ready--the first onto the track during the Derby/Oaks training period.
Dazzling Gem
Dazzled the morning fans.
Whitmore
Cathryn Sophia
Cherry Wine
Mo Tom
The morning's main event
Fans head to the rail to get an up-close view of Derby and Oaks racers. Dawn at the Downs wraps up Thursday. (Now known as "Thurby"!)
Fellowship
Mo d'Amour
The filly gets a look from Nyquist.
My Man Sam
Outwork
Majesto
Go Maggie Go
Shagaf
Carina Mia
Destin
Trojan Nation
The new arrival gets his first look at the track.
