Keeneland

[mick]

The fall meet at Keeneland begins today. Thoroughbreds have been racing at that beautiful place since 1936. I wasn't around then but I did see my very first race there on closing day of the 1974 fall meet. It was one of those special experiences that stays with you through a lifetime.

I was between college and law school and had taken a job in Kentucky. I was hanging out in Frankfort that Saturday and friend Bill Newman said, "Hey, let's go to the races!"

What a day! Sunny, mild, high-blue sky. We hung over the rail and watched those magnificent animals thundering down the stretch. I was gobsmacked. I think I even cashed a ticket or two. Bill's gone now but I have been watching those magnificent animals thunder down the stretch ever since. Thank you, Bill.

I'll make the drive up to Lexington several times over the next four weeks. If the opportunity arises, I'll speak to the TVG guys. (Matt is always agreeable. You have to catch Todd on the right day though.)

Keeneland is a special place. If you haven't been there, I'd suggest you add it to your list.

mick