A Churchill Downs’ Day of Celebration: Through the Eyes & Lens of the Incredible Holly M. Smith

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(A steamy chill in the air of a Churchill Downs’ morn / All Photos by Holly M. Smith)

Editor’s Note:

Saturday may have been one of the best days ever for Holly M. Smith and her magical camera lens. I have known this special lady for the past several years and ever since we embarked on this crazy idea of creating a blog that truly captures the truth of Thoroughbred racing and breeding. And, I think Saturday may have been one of her best days ever in helping us capture the truth of it all.

Here’s some of her most amazing looks.

What a great job, but such a great lady.

A Portrait of Beauty:

Trainer Brad Cox wins the G3 Ack Ack With Bishop’s Bay:

Dragoon Guard:

A Vision:

Dragoon Guard:

Bishop’s Bay Wins the G3 Ack Ack:

Plutarch:

All the Looks:

2026-09-27T12:29:30-04:00By 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