One of the things I always find interesting during the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event (henceforth referred to as – RK3DE) is the first horse inspection, or the jog. Not just the presentation of the horses for the inspection, but on a more free-spirited level, I find it fun to see what the eventers wear. I think it says a bit about their personalities and what they seem to feel fits their own personal style. Take a look at Buck Davidson's bright red and yellow polka dot socks that he paired with his dark grey business suit. Not the choice of someone who has a shy, introverted personality, for sure.
It’s funny to imagine asking them, “Who are you wearing?” as it was a red carpet event where paparazzi are snapping images and flashbulbs seem like a blitzkrieg of light.
There really is something for everyone. There is the straight-laced suit jacket and pants for the traditionalist. Obviously there is less variety where the men are concerned. So, it’s the women who get the most notice from those to whom fashion is always of interest. But, today, the riders couldn’t have been concerned too much with their fashion choices since the weather was wreaking havoc on the whole thing.
Today, they would have been much happier with a psychic weatherman than a tailor. Everyone was wishing that the weather was more cooperative. Strong storms, tornadoes and funnel clouds threatened to throw everything off kilter. The jog – which was to start at 3 p.m. – was pushed up to 10 a.m. That is until the National Weather Service sirens went off and the tornado warnings were issued. A 10 a.m. jog was not to be.
Thankfully, the first in a series of lines of storms passed and the jog was pushed back to 11 a.m. and finally got started. During part of it, the skies even opened up a bit to allow some much welcomed sunshine to the late morning.
There were no raincoats and Wellington boots going down the line of the log today – even though they would have made perfect sense. Just for fun, here are a few photos of some of the eventers that presented their mounts during today’s jog.
Here are some others I caught at the jog (photos were taken by Amanda Bassett, by the way) who showed their own style.
Allison Springer's casual suit and high heels.
Jessica Phoenix was ready to usher in spring with her sleeveless shirt dress with flats.
Kate Brown wore flats and a nautical looking jacket.
Katie Ruppell was prepared for the weather with her trench coat and scarf.
Four-time Badminton winner Mark Todd keeps it traditional prep with comfortable kicks.
Phillip Dutton keeps it simple with blazer and khakis.
Karen O'Connor mixes it up with cowboy hat and bright, short trench coat.
Kristin Bachman wore off-white and modern jacket, plus high heels.
Lainey Ashker jogs in high heel boots and casual comfort.