There is something so joyful about the entrances at Churchill Downs during the Derby. It is a veritable sea of humanity. Once they get through security, they practically burst onto the scene resembling joyous foals let loose to play. There is a lightness in the air.

Exercise rider Orlando Cross is all business when he is out on the track riding Kentucky Derby contender State of Honor. He rides with strength and confidence. He wears a poker face traditional on exercise riders of his generation. He is easy to pick out with his striking red jacket, red gloves and a blue helmet covered with black stripes.