The annual race through Siena’s Piazza del Campo never fails to draw fanfare nor does it fail to draw blood. Whether it befalls horse, rider, or quarreling neighbors there is nothing more guaranteed in this dangerous play for honor than injury; and with the city’s seventeen districts vying for only ten slots, the chance to participate is a matter of pride. This series catalogs the preparation and celebrations of il palio with special focus given to the Tortoise district and its journey to the starting line of the most dangerous horse race in the world.