Through the lens: Scenes from Keeneland's morning workouts

Seen most often with a packed grandstand under sunny skies, Keeneland is just as spectacular at dawn. Attending morning workouts is something not many do, but the track remains open to spectators in the morning hours.

The Kentucky sunrise never gets old.

Trainer Wayne Catalano is one to send his horses out early for their morning spin around the main dirt track. All Catalano trainees sport a black saddle cloth with a yellow circle and the abbreviation "CAT."

This Kenny McPeek trainee is one who caught my eye during workouts. The horse later worked in tandem with a stablemate, which you will see in just a few images.

Chad Brown is one who often uses draw reins on his horses, which makes the horse easier to control for the rider. Draw reins were in the limelight when they were used by trainer Todd Pletcher and his 2017 Kentucky Derby winner, Always Dreaming.

At Keeneland, there is breakfast at the track in the early hours, when visitors can gather at the rail, watch horses train out and see outriders at work.

Wesley Ward is a trainer who sends out mass amounts of horses every day to gallop and work out. They often will work out in groups. Ward's horses all wear black saddle cloths with "Ward" embroidered in yellow.

The flashy Kenny McPeek trainee comes by just one time while galloping with a stablemate.

Trainer Eddie Kenneally, whose horse is working above, is best known for training top runners like Sailor's Valentine, Bradester and Customs for Carlos.

Trainer Brian Lynch is from Australia, explaining the Kangaroo on his saddle cloths. Lynch is best known for training horses like Oscar Performance, Heart to Heart and Unchained Melody. 

Other training measures include schooling in the paddock. While it is much quieter in the morning hours than when done in the afternoon, this is an essential part of training a racehorse.

Another common sight at Keeneland is Mike Maker trainees. Mike Maker horses all wear the white saddle clothes with the double "M" in an oval. Maker is best known for training horses like Bigger Picture, Oscar Nominated, Hansen, and fan favorite Hogy. 

Consider workouts at Keeneland a bucket list item -- if you can wake up early enough to attend. Watching at the Lexington, Ky., track often means seeing the next round of champion racehorses.