After a less-than-promising start, which included a downpour about 7 a.m., the weather has steadily been on the improve today. The sun is shining and it's warm, with a slight breeze. The track, which began the day listed as sloppy, was upgraded to fast for the fourth race.

The first race, a $67,000 allowance at one mile, was named for Funny Cide, upstate New York's media darling from 2003 who won the Derby and Preakness that year. Jack Knowlton, managing partner for Sackatoga Stable and never one to miss a photo op, was in the winner's circle for the trophy presentation.

Curlin, the 2007 Horse of the Year, was paraded on the main track and in the paddock prior to the fifth. There is still no timetable or race picked out for his return, but he sure looked ready to run.

Jockey John Velazquez just took Elite Squadron (4-1) gate to wire to win the fifth race, Velazquez's second straight victory this afternoon. He'll ride looooooongshot Cowboy Cal for trainer Todd Pletcher in the Derby.

The old place is packed today, no surprise there. It is always interesting to see people lining up for mint juleps and Crown Royal at 9 in the morning, not to mention the Oaks Lily, official drink on Oaks day. Those cost 9 bucks, including the souvenir glass.

Speaking of drink prices, I found the bargain of Derby week last night at a restaurant named "Buckheads," a short distance from the track. They had a Long Island Iced Tea special for 2.99. I couldn't say yes fast enough. Only had one, though. Today's a big day.