(Clean as a whistle / All Photos by Holly M. Smith)

Editor’s Note:

It is that time of year. When Spring springs eternal and hopes of grandeur springs up in the minds of everyone who owns a Thoroughbred race horse. That is what happens here. Each year. Every year. It’s Kentucky Derby time. It’s Dream Season.

Here’s a few looks at the Churchill Downs backside on Saturday morn, through the eyes and lens of our great friend and ally — Holly M. Smith.

Enjoy.

Dream, too.

Wonder Dean:

Touch of Fire:

KY Oaks Candidate Life of Joy:

Magnitude & His Travel Buddy:

Magnitude Is Home:

Dragoon Guard:

Life of Joy: 

G3 Jeff Ruby Steaks Winner Fulleffort:

The Spires That Inspire:

Dragoon Guard:

Ragtime:

Grand Joy:

The Beauty & Beauties of a Churchill Downs backside morning:

KY Derby Hopeful Wonder Dean: