My experience at this years Breeders' Cup is one that I will never forget. It was one hell of a ride but with every learning experience always comes disappointment - this is how we learn. There are some things that I wish I had done differently. I didn't see it leading up to the event, as I am guessing I was just too full of excitement just to be there and to take it all in. Unfortunately lack of sleep and fatigue were factors. I was just too excited and had too much on my mind to get a proper night's sleep, so I lived off of caffeine for a few days, a lot of it but we all know that it eventually wears off.
It wasn't until my plane heading back home when all the dots connected on how exactly I could have gone about certain things much differently and effectively. It was not a great feeling, in fact it was a downright rotten feeling heading back home, knowing that I let myself down on many fore fronts but the trip in it's entirety was an enormous and incredibly valuable learning experience for me. First time ever being at an event of this magnitude and just the second time photographing Thoroughbred horse racing.
Thanks again to Sarah MacHarg for giving me the opportunity and taking me to the back side. You have taught me many valuable things about the racing world in my four days in Kentucky.
Thank you to Hazel Bennett for trying her darn hardest, offering to get me in her suite up in the front, unfortunately we ran out of time. Throughout the event, I was in touch with a few friends who were also in attendance watching from the stands and unfortunately due to time constraints we were unable to meet up - there is always next time.
I made a bunch of new friends while at the racetrack doing my thing - spectators, Breeders' Cup staff and grooms - It was a pleasure meeting and chatting with all of you, hopefully we can re-connect sometime in the future. Moving forward, as the disappointment sinks in, I know exactly what I have my eyes set on and I have a full year to work towards accomplishing it. What I learned from this experience will be carried over to the future.
Click HERE to view all the photos.