Many computerized hands-on exhibits bring horse racing alive. In Time Machine Theater videos of 65 Derbies are available at the touch of the screen. Place Your Bets is a computerized race that demonstrates how placing bets change the odds of a horse race. Derby Trivia is a computer test of your Kentucky horse racing knowledge. Horse Talk teaches you the language of the backstretch . Would-be jockeys can pick up a saddle and weigh-in for a race. Hundreds of artifacts capture the magic of the Kentucky Derby. There are trademark mint julep cups and winnerÕs blanket woven with 600 roses. Guided walking tours of the Churchill Downs track are included in the Museum admission.

In Amarillo, Texas three galleries at the American Quarter Horse Horse Heritage Center & Museum (2601 I-40 East, Amarillo, 806/376-5181) celebrate this supreme equine athlete. An Orientation Theater acquaints newcomers to this fabulous horse. The Museum contains photographs, artifacts and videotapes of historic horses, colorful people, and landmark events associated with the quarter horse. A special collaborative exhibit with the Smithsonian Institution traces the impact of the horse on American life. Live quarter horse demonstrations are periodically scheduled for the adjacent outdoor arena.

Is there one true American sport? Upon leaving the action-packed ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum (Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919, 719/528-4763) you would be hard pressed to name another sport as wholly American as rodeo. Rodeo, which evolved from everyday Western work chores into sport, is a totally American experience. Your precisely orchestrated semi-guided tour takes you through two video presentations and past a stunning collection of cowboy gear.

In the Hall of Champions the stock is honored along with the cowboys. During the summer months a champion bronco lives in the backyard stable area. After his retirement the Hall of Fame bucking bronco Descent made his home in the stable area. You were thus able to meet a living Hall-of-Famer at the site of his enshrinement, something not possible at any other sports museum.

These museums are only the largest of America's horse museums. There are others honoring different breeds and local horse communities. Whatever your equestrian passion there is an exciting museum for the horselover to enjoy.