Sunrise creeping, daylight peeping,

All is silent, all are sleeping.

 

Alarm clocks whirring, stables stirring,

Dogs start scratching, cats lie purring,

 

Voices rising (some surmising),

Smell of coffee - appetising.

 

Harness jingling, senses tingling,

Sweat and horse-breath intermingling.

 

Race day thrilling, people milling,

Horses happy, keen and willing.

 

Race crowds growing, to and fro-ing,

Chatting owners quietly knowing.

 

Steeds parading, promenading,

Hopes increasing, chances fading.

 

Miracles happen!  It's a winner,

Paying for the drinks and dinner.

 

Horses fed and put to bed now,

Weary footsteps homeward tread now.

 

Happy voices, early morning,

Soon to rise again at dawning.

 

Sunrise creeping, daylight peeping,

All is silent, all are sleeping.