[DerbyCat]

I'm going to Kentucky for a vacation next week and have worked up a pretty good itinerary for the five full days that I'm there. I'm doing the usual tourist stuff - morning works and breakfast at Keeneland, Three Chimneys tour, Woodford Reserve tour, got a viewing scheduled with Invasor at Shadwell, Kentucky Horse Park visit, and the "behind the scenes" walking tour of Churchill. During the week I'll be staying at the Galt House, the Brown and the Storybook Inn. I have all day Friday and Saturday committed to being at Churchill from morning works until they kick me out (I've still got to bet on Golden Gate while I'm away).

The only thing my trip is missing, in my opinion, is a tour of Lane's End (they say they don't do tours during breeding season), I'd love to see A.P. Indy, Curlin and Lemon Drop Kid (he's one of my favorite sires right now, along with Orientate). Anyone have any connections that could get me and two friends in at Lane's End? Also, I would love to get to hang around the back side of Churchill to do some photography (my camera is going everywhere with me this trip) - will my California owners license get me access or am I too hopeful? And, needless to say, if I got to the backside, is there any chance I'd be able to get anywhere near MTB or Rachael's barns for a photo? If I could do these things I think I'd have just about the best vacation ever (yes, I am star-struck when it comes to race horses).

Finally, is there anything I'm missing that has to be done? A great place to eat, a farm where the staff is really friendly and let's you have access to get good photos of the horses? You folks are the experts, and I'm looking for all the help I can get.

Thanks in advance for your feedback.