(Forte / All Photos by Holly M. Smith)

Editor’s Note:

Nearly every day, and sometimes twice a day in the near future, our great friend and “Team Photographer,” Holly M. Smith will steal a few hours from her day and other job responsibilities to get to the Churchill Downs’ backside and photo some of the top horses on the grounds — including those those that are prepping for the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and other major Stakes events.

We will provide you with some of the most in-depth looks and glimpses into the backside operations and the horses, as they get their final preparations for “The Big Day in May.”

Here’s some looks from Monday. All Photos by Holly M. Smith — the best there is:

A Nose Job: 

Kentucky Derby Favorite Forte:

Julia Shinning: 

Contrive: 

Emmanuel:

Kanthari: 

Tapit Trice: 

Gambling Girl:

Dude n Colorado: