Churchill Downs’ “After Dark:” Through the Eyes & Lens of Holly M. Smith

(Saddles for all occasions / All Photos by Holly M. Smith)

Editor’s Note:

There’s few things in life better than night racing at Churchill Downs. And, there’s even fewer things more beautiful and breath-taking than some of the images captured and painted on camera by our great friend — Holly M. Smith.

This past Saturday, we had both.

Here’s a few looks from the brilliant:

The Day Starts Early…

Xigera:

Seneca Overnight Stakes:

Everso Mischievous:

Slip Mahoney:

The fans…so many fans…:

The Bourbon Trail Stakes: Accredit

Slip Mahoney:

The Looks and Scenes of Horse Life:

And, the Night Ends Late:

2023-09-25T10:53:03-04:00By Holly M. Smith|

About the Author: Holly M. Smith

Holly is a freelance photographer based in Louisville. While she maintains a full time job outside of the thoroughbred/horse industry she spends most of her free time around the racetrack. Horses and photography have been a part of Holly's life going all the way back to elementary school. In 2015 after American Pharoah won the Kentucky Derby she decided to pick up the camera again and get back into the game. Since then she has covered events such as the Kentucky Derby, Breeder's Cup, Queen's Plate and various other racing events. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, watching reality tv shows, and spending time with her fur kids, who still love her even though she isn't home much during racing season! Holly is a proud alum of Franklin County High School and University of Kentucky. She also serves on the UK Greater Louisville Area Alumni Board. Connect with Holly on Twitter @kyholmarie