They gathered ’round a soggy Inspection Hill on Wednesday under a volatile Kentucky sky which presented an unmistakable air of wet anxiousness. Dressed for success with their 1500lb. accessories in tow, they dutifully took their turn on the catwalk in this, the first horse inspection of Rolex Kentucky 2016.

When the dust settled, all 72 presented combinations were cleared to begin the first phase of North America’s premier 3-day event. A pair of late scratches from Rachel McDonough (Irish Rhythm) and Caroline Martin and (Quantum Solace) and some trampled geraniums aside, it was a smooth afternoon of high fashion and high hopes.

Let’s take a look.

 

Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley, always on point.

Elisabeth Halliday-Sharp and HHS Cooley, always on point.

 

Classically chic Sinead Halpin and the gorgeous Manoir de Carneville.

Classically chic Sinead Halpin and the gorgeous Manoir de Carneville.

 

Just another jog for Rolex vets Laine Ashker and Anthony "Al" Patch.

Just another jog for Rolex vets Laine Ashker and Anthony “Al” Patch.

 

Rolex Rooks Avery Klunick and the aptly named In It To Win It, who looks a little suspicious of that shrub ahead.

Rolex Rooks Avery Klunick and the aptly named In It To Win It, who looks a little suspicious of that shrub ahead.

 

Trying to stay calm but really unsure...

Trying to stay calm but really unsure…

 

Rolex mainstay Lynn Symansky giving Donner the "Don't you dare..." look.

Rolex mainstay Lynn Symansky giving Donner the “Don’t you dare…” look.

 

Inspectors inspecting.

Inspectors inspecting.

 

As sure as the rain, James Alliston's Parker does the jog on his terms.

As sure as the rain, James Alliston’s Parker does the jog on his terms.

 

And we're going off the rails...

And we’re going off the rails…

 

Still going...

Still going…

 

Seriously, Alliston might not have to work this hard the rest of the weekend.

Seriously, Alliston might not have to work this hard the rest of the weekend.

 

And we're back!

And we’re back!

 

Every. Single. Year.

Every. Single. Year.

 

 

New Zealand's Jock Paget and Clifton Signature in perfect head cocked harmony.

New Zealand’s Jock Paget and Clifton Signature in perfect head cocked harmony.

 

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark's Monte Carlo.

Lauren Kieffer and Landmark’s Monte Carlo.

 

Allie Knowles is quite pleased with her OTTB Sound Prospect.

Allie Knowles is quite pleased with her OTTB Sound Prospect.

 

Holly Payne Caravella and Santino.

Holly Payne Caravella and Santino.

 

Kiwi-American Joe Meyer channeling his inner-Scotsman as he jogs with Clip Clop.

Kiwi-American Joe Meyer channeling his inner-Scotsman as he jogs with Clip Clop.

 

Defending champs and prohibitive favorites Michael Jung and FISCHERROCANA FST. No wasted movements.

Defending champs and prohibitive favorites Michael Jung and FISCHERROCANA FST. No wasted movements.

 

Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me. Look at those lovebirds.

Lisa Marie Fergusson and Honor Me. Look at those lovebirds.

 

Kyle Carter and Madison Park sharing a moment.

Kyle Carter and Madison Park sharing a moment.

 

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF running all the way back to 1912.

Matt Brown and Super Socks BCF running all the way back to 1912.

 

Emily Beshear and the dapper Shame on the Moon

Emily Beshear and the dapper Shame on the Moon

 

 

Competitor List and Ride Times