by Zo

We’ve had a lifelong fondness for horses and have always wanted to go to Churchill Downs on that first Saturday in May to see the run for the roses firsthand. With it’s history, tradition, excitement, glamour and mint juleps it’s an experience we’d like to experience one day. We don’t have tickets, so here are some other ways to get in.

1. Pony up lots of dough to get yourself a farm full of horses. Ridiculously expensive, bound to break your heart at least once. But, you get to have all those horses! How about this beautiful property (horses NOT included).

2. Hide under a hat. Do you think she snuck in? Regardless of whether or not we make it to Kentucky, we would love one day to have a hat from Suzanne Millinery. Or, a career like the company’s designer and owner (read her bio. Very cool).

3. Get a job at the track. There are some drawbacks though. Size is an issue if you wish to be a jockey. And, “most of these jobs require extensive practical training and if you’re interested you should get as much experience as you can. Even if it means volunteering to help out a local barn until you find paid employement.” (Read more here). So, you gotta love it and really want it.

4. Get a job at Yum! brands. I suppose someone in marketing figured that Kentucky Fried Chicken and the Kentucky Derby were a natural fit and a super cross-promotional opportunity?

5. Enter the Churchill Downs public drawing. We’re a little late for the April 5th public drawing for fans to purchase two reserved seats. If you get selected, you can expect to pay anywhere from $214 to $414 a pair. Next year!

6. StubHub. We think there are still some left.

7. Dress up like a horse, sneak in the starting gate and RUN. This was in Santa Anita. And, was probably a race for people. This competitor chose to dress like a horse. But, we think it’s worth a shot.