Through the lens: Scenes from Keeneland's spring meet

Mother Nature has kept the state of Kentucky on its toes this year. Just when spring appears to finally be flourishing, wintry weather strikes again, leaving the Bluegrass State wondering if winter will ever leave. Kentucky weather is notorious for being unpredictable and temperamental; it’s difficult to know what it will throw at you.

But one thing is certain about spring in Kentucky: a wonderful time at Keeneland spent watching excellent racing.

Through whatever elements Kentucky weather has in store, fans show up at Keeneland to enjoy the Lexington track's brief meet, full of quality racing. It's a fun time for everyone of all ages – a time to witness some of the sport's best athletes, show off your best outfits and spend time with friends and family.

Kentucky weather has not strayed from its capricious ways during this Keeneland spring meet and during this past weekend's racing, rain made for quite the muddy scene. Galloping hoofbeats were louder than normal as horses raced over the sloppy surface, the gray sky added to the drama of each race and rain poured from the sky as horsemen and fans braved the conditions.

Nonetheless, signs of spring are working to make their presence known. Colorful buds provide a sharp contrast against the grayness and the rich color of the Kentucky bluegrass is becoming brighter with each passing day.

But perhaps Keeneland's most significant staple is its superb quality of equine athletes and horsemen. Throughout the backside and on the track in the mornings, some of racing's biggest starts can be spotted. Each meet, a number of stakes – many of them graded – attract some of the best horses in training and provide racing fans with a chance to see the best of the best compete. Even in maiden special weights and allowance races on Keeneland cards, fans have the chance to see some of the most promising horses the nation has to offer.

Rain or shine, and everything in between, a day spent at Keeneland is worth whatever Kentucky weather manages to stir up. Surrounded by horse country, it is where the best racing has to offer – horses, horsemen and fans – join together. It truly is, racing as it was meant to be.