(Impel before Saturday’s G3 Chilukki Stakes / All Photos by Holly M. Smith)

Editor’s Note:

It was unseasonably warm on Saturday, and the sun’s breath felt good on the back of both humans and horses. But what warmed the heart, more than anything, was the way the horses ran. Giving heart and soul. Giving energy and focus. Giving their all to finish first; or second; or third; or whatever they could finish. On hand for the Claiming Crown at Churchill Downs was our great friend and ally — Holly M. Smith. She captured it all. From start to finish. Here’s a sample of her work:

The “looks” of racing at Churchill Downs: 

Ashima: 

Ready’s Rocket Express:

Concrete Glory & Rider Irad Ortiz, Jr:

Empire’s Best: 

Jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr.:

Saddle Cloth for the Claiming Crown:

Shred the Gnar:

More Looks…

Shred the Gnar:

Impel

Just Out Riding…