Some sporting events are in a class by themselves, and are
once-in-a-lifetime vacation destinations. Three of those events, full of
tradition and history, are the Kentucky Derby, the Masters Tournament of golf,
and the renowned tennis tournament Wimbledon. Any of these events is an
unforgettable trip that belongs on your bucket list.
The Kentucky Derby
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Known as “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” the Kentucky
Derby is the opening race in the United States Triple Crown of Thoroughbred
Racing, and takes place May 7, 2011 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
The other two jewels in the Triple Crown are the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore,
Maryland, on May 21, 2011, and the Belmont Stakes in Elmont, New York, on June
11, 2011.
The Kentucky Derby is also called “The Run for the Roses”
because the winning horse is covered with a blanket of 564 roses, which fans
can watch being made on Derby Eve. Since 1875, the Derby has thrilled audiences
with not only the athleticism of the horses and jockeys, but also with its rich
traditions. From the fancy hats the women wear to the mint julep, the
traditional drink of the Derby, to the playing of “My Old Kentucky Home” when
the horses step onto the track, the 136-year-old history of the Derby is
evident throughout the weekend.
For a heaping helping of southern charm, go to the Churchill
Downs infield and join tens of thousands of spectators connecting with new
friends and hoping to see a horse or jockey. Some have compared it to the
streets of New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Keep an eye out for celebrities, who
love a good horse race and party as much as the next person.
For special Derby accommodations, contact me as soon as
possible.
The Masters
Tournament
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The first of the four major golf championships played each
year, the Masters takes place April 4–10, 2011 at the exclusive Augusta
National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. Golf aficionados will love the opportunity
to watch the best of the best tee off and pit their talents against their
peers. The atmosphere is one of tense excitement, and the city of Augusta comes
alive during Masters Week.
Like the Kentucky Derby, the Masters is steeped in
tradition. Besides the well-known green jacket and gold medal awarded to the
winner, traditions include giving crystal ware to players who achieve daily
lowest scores, holes-in-one, or eagles. Masters champions automatically receive
invitations to play in the other three major tournaments for five years, as
well as a lifetime invitation to the Masters.
As tickets for the Masters can be difficult to find, you
need to apply for practice round tickets approximately a year in advance. I can
help you with applications and accommodations for 2012, including lodging with
local residents in their homes.
Wimbledon
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The most prestigious tennis tournament in the world,
Wimbledon presents a perfect opportunity to take a trip to London. Held in late
June through early July, Wimbledon is the only one of the four Grand Slam
tournaments played on grass, tennis’ original surface.
Wimbledon is located in the London borough of Merton, and
the tournament takes place at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. The
exciting events include gentlemen’s and ladies’ singles and doubles, plus a
mixed doubles competition. The winners and runners-up receive silver trophies
and plates, beautiful art in themselves.
The traditions of Wimbledon include snacks of strawberries
and cream, a dress code for competitors (all white), and ball boys and ball
girls from local schools who keep games running smoothly. At one time, players
were required to bow or curtsy to any member of the Royal Family seated in the
Royal Box, but now deference is required only for the Queen or Prince of Wales.
If you want to travel to Wimbledon, you need to get your
tickets and book your trip now. You’ll want to visit the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis
Museum, with over 15,000 pieces of lawn tennis history, and take a guided tour
of the grounds.
No matter which sport you enjoy, these eminent tournaments are
thrilling and fascinating events you’ll never forget. Which one will you travel
to first and why?
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