Time to switch things up a bit and focus on a non-Norwegian phenonemon. Today’s a very special day for all Louisvillians and Kentuckians. Why?
The namesake horse race, the Kentucky Derby, starts in a few hours. Since 1875, the thoroughbred race has always been held on the first Saturday in May. The race itself, which has been referred to as the “fastest two minutes in sports” and the “Run for the Roses” takes place at Churchill Downs, located in Louisville, Kentucky. The horses race around a 1 1/4 mile or 10-furlong track with one horse taking the glory, sometimes winning by a “nose”.
However, the horse race itself actually marks the end of the Kentucky Derby Festival, a two-week celebration that officially begins with Thunder Over Louisville, one of America’s largest fireworks displays. The weeks leading up to the race are followed by a balloon glow, a parade and then the Kentucky Oaks, the thoroughbred race for the fillies (female horses) held the Friday before. There are also numerous events, parties and many other activities happening in Louisville at the time, which makes it a popular destination for guests and celebrities. The Derby is also known for its signature drink, the mint julep, which is in abundance wherever you go.
Of course, most people just take delight in betting on a horse to win the race. Who will you root for in the Run for the Roses? I’m going to stick with “Overanalyze” this year.
PHOTOS (top to bottom): Kentucky Tourism, Splash Of Sunset Photography, About.com