It never fails. Every year when I tell non-horsey friends that I’m heading to Kentucky at the end of April, they always say the same thing: “Are you going to the Kentucky Derby?”
When I explain that my destination is the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event (known until last year as Rolex Kentucky) there is never a glimmer of recognition. But my horsey pals know exactly where I’m headed and why. It is the only 5-star-rated event in the Western Hemisphere. Billing itself as “the best weekend all year,” it certainly had a good start today with glorious weather at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Defending champion Oliver Townend of Great Britain says hello while jogging Cooley Master Class. (Photo©2019 by Nancy Jaffer)
The first order of business is the horse inspection, also known as the trot-up or the jog to determine which horses are fit to start. There were 42 presented to the judging panel, one of the smaller fields for the event, which got even smaller when Ashley Johnson’s Technical Manuever was not accepted.
The trot-up doubles as a fashion show, with awards given for the best female and male outfits. But it’s all a matter of opinion, as most riders showing a bit of personality-illuminating flair offer a glimpse at their inner selves not evident when they’re in boots and breeches.
Here is a look at a few of the standouts. Check back here every night through Sunday for the latest update on the action at Land Rover Kentucky.
“Show us your socks,” photographers yelled at Buck Davidson, seen here jogging Jak My Style, but we only got a tiny glimpse of his famous good-luck red and yellow socks. (Photo©2019 by Nancy Jaffer)
She’s all hat. Sarah Gumbiner and Polaris. (Photo©2019 by Nancy Jaffer)
Boyd Martin and Tsetserleg are among the favorites to take the top spot (Photo©2018 by Nancy Jaffer)
Coverage of Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event on NancyJaffer.com:
Thursday, April 25: Dressage paves the way at the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event
Friday, April 26: The Once and Future King of Kentucky?
Saturday, April 27: Is it time for an American to win the Kentucky Three-Day Event?
Sunday, April 28: The Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event has a repeat winner
