I already have lots of pictures online from the races for you, but here is a selection of scenes from Derby week that you might not see if you weren't there yourself. Click on the small image to view a larger version.
The call to the post for the 131st Kentucky Derby.
Looking up at the sign for 2005 with one of the twin spires in the background.
The horses for the Kentucky Derby during their walk over from the backside to the paddock for saddling.
Carrying the garland of roses for the Kentucky Derby out to the winner's circle before the race.
The post parade for the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic as seen from the turf course with the huge crowd in the background.
The view of the stands from the finish post showing the twin spires dwarfed by the new construction on each side.
A similar view from the other direction taken on Wednesday afternoon.
Looking across from the backside during morning workouts really lets you seen the full extent of the grandstand and the new construction.
Looking from the press box over the twin spires at the new Jockey Club Suites above the grandstand seats.
The Aristides statue between the stands and the paddock was nicely decorated with red tulips and a border of rose bushes, although the roses weren't blooming yet. This was taken Wednesday since there would be too many people to see it on Saturday.
Alex's Lemonade Stand beside the paddock. Third place Derby finisher Afleet Alex was named for this little girl who had cancer and started a lemonade stand to raise money for pediatric cancer research. Although she passed away last year, the fundraising continues in her honor and has raised over $1.6 million so far. $11,000 was raised during the Oaks and Derby at this stand.
It wouldn't be Derby Day if someone from the infield didn't get arrested. These two guys apparently jumped the fence to the turf course and were escorted off in handcuffs just before the Derby.
Triple Crown quick links:
Top Kentucky Derby Contenders - my list of the top horses headed to the Derby with profiles for each with photos, stats, and link to more info like past performances and pedigree.
Analyzing the top 2013 Kentucky Derby contenders - My annual analysis of the top contenders to try and select a winner by matching each to the profile of a Kentucky Derby winner using many of the more popular angles and statistical trends. This year there were is a 3-way tie for the top spot: Goldencents, Normandy Invasion, and Overanalyze.
2013 Kentucky Derby And Oaks Security - New enhanced stricter rules will be enforced this year. Be sure to read the rules as many have changed and more things are banned. There will still be magnetic wand searches of all patrons and many things are no longer allowed. Check here to make sure you don't bring anything they will confiscate.
Review: Triple Crown Handicapper 2013 - by Jim Mazur. Includes lots of stats for all 3 races and explains how to use a system of statistically derived negative angles to eliminate the "bad" picks.
Review: Kentucky Derby Greatest Moments - Commemorative DVD from Churchill Downs with video from 27 different runnings along with interviews, photos, and historical info. Definitely recommended for any racing fan!
Review: Churchill Downs - America's Most Historic Racetrack by Kimberly Gatto. An entertaining and informative account of the history of the track and it's most famous race, the Kentucky Derby, with lots of photos. Definitely recommended.