The Bluegrass Region is quickly transferring it's self from winter to spring, flowers are pushing through the greening grass, and the trees are poised for an explosion of color. The weather is warmer and the hearts of the people of this magical land have a bounce in their step. Springtime is celebration enough, but around here it means two things, the start of basketball tournament time and the prep races for the Kentucky Derby. Merged with the climate change is a sense of excitement that few states get the luxury of experiencing.
All ready the young colts and fillies are bounding through the rolling pastures of the great horse farms that dot this fairy tale land we inhabit. The older horses are shedding their winter hair in anticipation of the strong sunshine that will grow and harden their resolve, and all the while the young three year olds that have a chance at immortality and greatness, are prancing in their morning workouts from New York, Florida, and the west coast. Their destination is Kentucky for one chance at one moment of glory.
The same thing is true for the young human athletes and their fans, from small towns to the big cities, the goal is the same, a chance at greatness on the biggest stage in their young lives, Rupp Arena and the legendary "Sweet Sixteen". All have dreamed of making that last second shot while bouncing countless basketballs on gravel courts and shooting at crooked hoops nailed to barns and garages. This is the lure of this special time of year, a chance at glory.
The same thing holds true for all Kentuckians when their beloved college basketball team makes it's annual quest for a national championship. Expectations run high only because we all have experienced just how hard it is to attain these lofty goals. Championships are hard to come by. Glory is rare, but the hope that arrives each springtime with the basketball tournaments and the road to the Kentucky Derby, makes for an unbelievably emotional high. Maybe it is madness but what ever it is it sure gives us something to look forward to. For us Kentuckians spring really is the best time of the year!
