Kentucky Summer Classic Warm-Up Day

The hot day before the Kentucky Summer Classic was perhaps not in need of a literal warm up, but a warm-up day it nonetheless had.

Piper Klemm and her trainer, Emily Elek, were busy on their phones. Don’t call Emily—just text her if you want a response.

There’s always a need for more cold water bottles.

Will and Papaya receiving coaching from Bob Crandall…

…Before putting that advice into action.

I’m always on the lookout for a pony with a positive attitude and unique coat.

Out: Hermes belts. In: Gucci belts. I guess everyone watched the movie.

Grooms make all of this possible. I went with a deep depth of field here to allow for the big difference in size without either groom or rider being lost to bokeh.

Smiles like this are why we’re all there at the show.