The Big Loop, Day 38: Churchill Downs (23 images)

My first stop on day 38, in Kentucky, was Churchill Downs. As home to our longest continuous-running sports event (1875), it is a very special place. Even though I am only a casual horse race follower, I found my visit there to be a powerfully moving experience. Lotsa, lotsa history! The museum there is terrific, featuring countless stories of horses, jockeys, owners, and much, much more.