KTTC COMPLETES 6TH CONSECUTIVE DERBY ROAD TRIP

The 2005 Kentucky Derby was the sixth consecutive KTTC Road Trip to Churchill Downs for the world's most famous horse race and it was another spectacular event.

KTTC members and parents began the morning with a stop at the barn of trainer Bernie Flint, who had Runway Model entered in the afternoon's Kentucky Oaks. Flint loosened the group up with a warm welcome.

On the road toward the barns housing this year's Kentucky Derby runners, KTTC met up with trainer John Servis, of Smarty Jones fame. Servis was in town to accept several awards and he was happy to meet with the group and explain what it was like to win the Derby and Preakness Stakes last season. He also elaborated on the disappointment of losing the Belmont Stakes.

Trainer D. Wayne Lukas met the group at his barn and offered several bits of advice to members contemplating a career in racing. As usual he captivated the audience.

Members took a few minutes to watch the action on the racetrack as Derby runners and other horses galloped past.

Bob Baffert, a trainer with three Kentucky Derby wins to his credit, welcomed KTTC members to his barn and he chatted with group about what winning those races meant to him. He also explained to the gathering how tough it was to win the Derby. The personable trainer then signed autographs and posed for photos with KTTC members.

Trainer Tim Ritchey, who had Afleet Alex in the big race, was the next trainer to visit with the group and he detailed 'Alex's career from the time he was purchased until the current moment. Ritchey took the group, step by step, through the popular colt's races and training, describing his temperament and habits. Ritchey also signed autographs and posed for photos with the group.

Following morning activities essay contest winners Paul Clark, Muskegeon, MI; Jennifer Kramer, South Hampden, ME; and Brooke Ketron, Germantown, MD found their prime box seats for a day at the races. Other KTTC members and parents were provided with general admission and enjoyed the afternoon from various locations.

Friday night, KTTC members and parents met at John E's restaurant in Louisville for an outstanding dinner. The Friday-night feast has become a KTTC tradition and various KTTC alums joined in the fun.

On Saturday, Derby Day, essay contest winners were rewarded with prime box seats located two rows from the track and only yards from the finish line. From their vantage point they were in the middle of the action as Giacomo upset the field.

Derby Finish – KTTC members pose at the historic Derby finish.

Tim Ritchey and Paul Clark

D. Wayne Lukas meets with KTTC group.

KTTC members at the ’05 Kentucky Derby

’05 Essay winners Paul Clark, Brooke Ketron and Jennifer Kramer

Tim Ritchey with Phoebe Marks

photo to come

Tim Ritchey with Brooke Ketron