Columbus Horse Racing

With Fall swiftly approaching many of the typical Summer sports in Nebraska are coming to a close as the season winds down for the impending temperature change. I was lucky enough to have a Sunday off and decided to make my way to Columbus, Nebraska for my first taste of Nebraskan horse racing. Having never photographed a horse race before, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from AgPark in Columbus. My editor joked with me as I pitched the story that I shouldn’t be hoping for Chuchill Downs, and I assured him that I was really looking for the full ‘Nebraskan’ experience (whatever that may entail). I called ahead to make certain photographs were allowed and received a very excited correspondence with the director of the race track. They were waiting for me when I arrived and I was greeted by a cheerful ‘tour guide’ named Tom. We saw everything there was to see on the grounds and my expectations of the afternoon were quickly surpassed by the entire experience. From the paddocks to the winner’s circle, I happily positioned myself amongst powerful Thoroughbreds for an afternoon I will not soon forget. Growing up with horses and currently being an owner of an extremely spoiled ex-race horse I was very much in my element taking photographs of these beautiful athletes. I hope you enjoy.