Muck Bucket List: Another 5* Bites the Dust

On my quest to go to every five star, I had an opportunity to knock one off in 2019. This one was a bit more local than Badminton, not requiring a passport or driving on the wrong side of the road.

The draw for Kentucky was a bit different than Badminton, however. I know I'll be back to Kentucky, I had a car to bring home all the purchases I could want (so many purchases...) and the biggest difference: I wasn't going alone.

Can't not reuse this picture

Seeing as my first five star experience was me flying solo, while I had a very good time there it was not the pure joy of meeting up with weird internet friends for the first time. I don't know what else to say that hasn't already been said but I do have a couple highlights.

Fried Chicken and Bourbon
At the recommendation of a good friend we went to a little restaurant called Trackside. The bourbon was excellent and affordable, and I am never allowed to move to Kentucky because I will become SO FAT.

Snow White
There was a dog being led by a volunteer and her name was Snow White. I was afraid we were going to end up with a different kind of souvenir when she threw herself into Sara's lap for snuggles immediately upon meeting her. I sincerely hope she got adopted because this dog was such a trooper and super cute. She was basically a celebrity.

Tailgating

Unbelievably, this is the first event I've ever actually properly tailgated. It was amazing. I may only tailgate events in the future. But only if Jen brings her husband and more tacos.

This Dog's Bun

So he could see cross country better, I'm assuming.

"No Dogs Allowed in Rolex Stadium"

The Jog
Also unbelievably, I've never watched the jog before. Of course we got there right before it started, so the hill was packed. I decided to camp near the entrance/exit. It was a boring jog with 0 holds and all horses being accepted immediately. It was fun to look at everyone's outfits, hear the funny things they say, see how upper level riders handle their horses and the prep that goes into making sure everything is just right for presentation.

Including hearing Daniela Moguel say "Hey, if this eventing thing doesn't work out at least I can model." I also feel like a creep in that I've been watching Chris Talley event for probably 7 years at this point and I cannot believe how like... grown up he looks. Shudder, just saying that made me feel REALLY FUCKING OLD.

I had a lovely time and I hope I can go back soon, although I really want to focus on getting to Burghley or Luhmühlen next!! But overall I'd give Kentucky 5/5 stars. Pun totally intended.