Two times a year the Santa Anita Race Track has a photographers day. This is a day when almost any camera and lens is invited to shoot without belonging to a major news network. The track does a good job at opening up photo areas that are normally closed to the public. The price you pay for this opportunity is nominal and they also provide you with a breakfast.
The more serious you get about photography the more you will take advantage of an opportunity to get a picture like this. These horses were at the back of the pack, and I think it is safe to say, no jockey or horse wants to be at the back.