Keeneland’s Fall Meet gets underway Friday afternoon with many horses and jockeys aiming for the Breeders Cup World Championships in early November at Churchill Downs.
New this fall is an up close look at what thoroughbred owners go through on race day.
The new Owner’s Experience Tours will be offered the first race every day during the October meet, except on Saturdays. Keeneland Spokeswoman Amy Gregory says visitors get a 90 minute tour with the $60 ticket. “They can start by going into the saddling paddock before the first race, watch the horses being saddled. And then walk into the walking ring, which is where the jockeys mount before the race. And then, follow the horses through the tunnel and watch the race from the winner’s circle,” said Gregory.
Also new this meet, BETologists, who are skilled in providing betting information, will be taking their advice out on the grounds through golf cart travel. “So, if you’re tailgating with a group of people and you see the BETmobile coming, you can flag it down and the BETologist will help you and your guests learn more about betting, how to place a wager or how to read the program, the past performances and things,” noted Gregory.
The Fall Meet, which runs from October fifth through the 27th, will feature 18 stakes races worth a record $5.5 million and led by key Breeders Cup prep races. Unseasonable warm weather is expected as the meet gets underway this weekend.