You don’t have to say it. I know what you’re thinking: None of the Thoroughbreds competing in this weekend’s Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships are even remotely close to being senior citizens. And you’re right. They’re not.

But in a world where many horses retire by the time they’re 3 or 4, I think you have to recognize the seasoned campaigners who are still sound and excited to be competing at the highest level of their sport.

Here’s a rundown of few of the “older” racehorses I’ll be watching and rooting for at Keeneland this weekend: