Track News

Half and Full Day Sessions Feature Wagering Advice and Thoroughbred Education From Two of Racing’s Leading Ladies, Jill Byrne and Donna Barton Brothers

Churchill Downs is welcoming women only to a special Ladies Racing Clinic on Thursday, May 24, hosted by renowned horse racing analyst and Churchill Downs handicapper Jill Byrne. One of the country’s leading female jockeys turned sports broadcaster and author, Donna Barton Brothers, will present the female perspective during her keynote address.

Ladies of all ages and experience at the track who want to learn more about the sport of Thoroughbred racing from the horses to handicapping, can choose from a full or half day session:

• Half Day – 8:00 a.m. – noon (ET) – includes the seminars only for $20.

Participants will enjoy an up close and personal experience covering various topics, including:

• The viewing of the horses exercising on the track
• Discussion about “Epic Fillies and Mares”
• An Insider’s View of Females in the Business
• Wagering Overview
• Keynote Address by Donna Barton Brothers

• Full Day - 8:00 a.m. – 4:59 p.m. (ET – last post time of the day) – includes the morning sessions listed above, an afternoon at the races from a seat on Millionaires Row and a guided tour of the track for $50.

 Space is limited. Reservations are still available through Tuesday May 22 at www.ChurchillDowns.com/tickets/ladiesracingclinic.  All attendees receive a lovely lavender journal with a racing glossary on the first page.

Partial proceeds from the event will benefit the Kentucky Equine Humane Center, which provides humane treatment and shelter while working to find adoptive homes for all of Kentucky's unwanted equines.

Jill is a renowned horse racing analyst, the Director of On Air Communications and official handicapper at Churchill Downs. She is a regular contributor to HRTV's racing programs.  Along with her on-air skills and top-notch racing analysis, Byrne is an accomplished horsewoman who worked in the training and campaigns of 1997 Horse of the Year and juvenile champion Favorite Trick and Countess Diana, that year’s champion 2-year-old filly. She was also involved in the campaign of Awesome Again who defeated 1997 Kentucky Derby (GI) winner Silver Charm to win the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (GI) at Churchill Downs in 1998.

The daughter of pioneering female jockey Patti Barton, Donna Barton Brothers started her jockey career in 1987 and retired 11½ years later as the second leading money-earner of all time among female jockeys. Altogether, Barton won 1,171 races. In 2000, she began her second career as an NBC Sports on-track reporter, racing analyst and handicapper, covering such illustrious thoroughbred racing events as the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, the Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup.  She is the author of Inside Track: Insider’s Guide to Horse Racing.

Churchill Downs joins racing fans in celebrating the bid by I’ll Have Another, winner of the 138^th Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands, bid to win the Preakness Stakes with an action-packed weekend of excitement headed by Saturday’s simulcast of the second jewel of the Triple Crown and a giveaway of a commemorative print of the Derby 138 winner Presented by GE.

The colorful 18” x 24” print contains an inside-rail view of I’ll Have Another and jockey Mario Gutierrez as they crossed the finish line in their historic victory in America’s greatest races on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs.  The image of I’ll Have Another is against a backdrop of Kentucky Derby icons that include the Twin Spires, the Derby Winner’s Circle; the solid gold winner’s trophy, and a Derby rose.

The first 5,000 fans through the admission gates on Saturday, May 19 will receive a voucher that entitles them to one Derby winner print. The vouchers can be exchanged for the Kentucky Derby commemorative print following Saturday’s fourth race at a redemption center located on the first floor of the Clubhouse at the Skye Terrace elevators, near the Longfield Ave./Gate 10 entrance.

Saturday’s Churchill Downs racing program, which includes 11 live races and the simulcast of the Preakness, has a post time of 12:45 p.m. (all times Eastern).  Post time for the simulcast of the 137^th running of the Preakness from Baltimore’s Pimlico Race Course is scheduled for 6:18 p.m.

Preakness Weekend at Churchill Downs kicks off with Friday’s Twilight Racing program that concludes with a performance by Citizen Cope in the second installment of the 2012 Paddock Concert Series.  Citizen Cope is scheduled to take to the Paddock Stage with his unique blend of hip-hop, rock, blues and soul.  He has released four critically acclaimed albums and a new collection, “One Lovely Day,” is set for release in July.  The Memphis, Tenn. native launched his career in Washington, DC, where the Washington Post praised him as the city’s “most soulful export since Marvin Gaye.”

The first 850 people in attendance for the Citizen Cope (www.CitizenCope.com) concert will be allowed free access to the paddock to watch the concert up close in a VIP viewing area.  Outside of the paddock there is ample space to enjoy the concert from the Paddock Garden and balcony areas.

Admission to the Paddock Concert Series performance by Citizen Cope is free with the $3 general admission to Churchill Downs before 7 p.m.  Admission to the concert is $10 after 7 p.m and gates 10 and 17 will be open for late admissions.

Admission gates will open for Friday’s Twilight Racing program at 1:30 p.m. and post time for the first race will be 2:45 p.m. Happy Hour drink specials in the paddock garden area include a $3 Stella Artois Draft Beer (16 oz.) from 4-7 p.m.

The Churchill Downs racing program on Sunday, May 20 will be accompanied Family Fun Days activities Presented by Kroger.  Family Fun Days promise a very special day for the entire family, with attractions that include HorseRacing Bingo, Junior Jockey Club activities; story time; a walking tour of the Kentucky Derby Museum to visit with Winston, its resident miniature horse; visits with Churchill Charlie and more.  More information is available at www.ChurchillDowns.com.

Family Fun Days activities are scheduled from 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Paddock Pavilion on Sundays throughout the meet.

Post time for Sunday racing at Churchill Downs is 12:45 p.m.  Admission gates open at 11:30 a.m.

Seating for Preakness Weekend events and tickets for Churchill Downs racing and special events throughout the Spring Meet can be purchased through the track’s online box office at www.ChurchillDowns.com/tickets or by calling (502) 636-4400.  Tickets can also be purchased at Churchill Downs’ on-track box office, located at Gate 1 off Central Avenue. The on-track box office is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the exception of Friday hours of noon to 6 p.m.  The box office will be open on “Downs After Dark” night racing Saturdays on June 2, 16 and 30 from noon to 9 p.m. 

With the excitement of a record-breaking Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Weekend still present on its historic grounds, Churchill Downs kicks-off the remaining 32 days of its Spring Meet on Thursday, May 10 with a nine-race program that concludes with a Super-Hi 5 race with a carryover pool from Kentucky Derby Day of $276,914.

The carryover pool in the Super Hi-5 was created when no one correctly picked the first five finishers in the correct order in Kentucky Derby 138 won by Reddam Racing LLC’s I’ll Have Another on Saturday, May 5.  That gave race fans another chance to take swing at the Super Hi-5 on Thursday’s program, which begins with the first race at 12:45 p.m. (all times Eastern).  The Super Hi-5 race is Thursday’s ninth event, with a scheduled post time of 4:59 p.m.

On Friday, May 11, Churchill Downs will launch both its Friday “Twilight Racing” programs and its 2012 Paddock Concert Series with a performance by Eric Lindell beneath the Twin Spires in the comfortable and intimate setting of the track’s paddock.  The Alligator Records recording artist will bring a unique blend of blues, R & B, funk and rock to the paddock stage following Friday’s races at approximately 8 p.m.

The first 850 people in attendance for the Eric Lindell (www.EricLindell.com) concert will be allowed free access to the paddock to watch the concert up close in a VIP viewing area.

Admission gates will open on Friday at 1:30 p.m. and post time for the first race will be 2:45 p.m. Happy Hour drink specials in the paddock garden area include a $3 Stella Artois Draft Beer from 4-7 p.m.

The Paddock Concert Series will continue through the month of May.  Scheduled performers include:

• Eric Lindell on Friday, May 11 (www.EricLindell.com)
• Citizen Cope on Friday, May 18 (www.CitizenCope.com)
• The Black Lillies on Friday, May 25 (www.TheBlackLillies.com)

The first post-Derby 138 weekend of racing during the Churchill Downs Spring Meet will have the traditional Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday, May 13 as its centerpiece.

A limited number of seats for Mother’s Day dining remain available in the Skye Terrace on the 6^th floor of the Clubhouse.  Seating for Mother’s Day Dining at Churchill Downs is $48 for adults and $28 for children and includes Levy Restaurants’ sumptuous Chef’s Table Buffet, track admission, seating and a racing program.

Jockey Club Suites remain available for Mother’s Day and other days during the meet, but seating in those suites must be reserved by Thursday for Sunday’s celebration.  Box seats remain available for purchase for the Mother’s Day program.

Sunday also launches the Spring Meet’s Family Fun Days, which include activities for children in the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Junior Jockey Club on Sundays throughout the meet.

Post time for the Saturday and Sunday racing programs at Churchill Downs is 12:45 p.m.  Admission gates open at 11:30 a.m.

Reservations for Mother’s Day dining at tickets for any day at Churchill Downs throughout the Spring Meet can be purchased through the track’s online box office at www.ChurchillDowns.com/tickets or by calling (502) 636-4400.

Hours for the on-track box office are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; noon-6 p.m. on Fridays; and noon-9 p.m. on “Downs After Dark” night racing Saturdays on June 2, June 16 (Stephen Foster Handicap) and June 30.

The hottest new Kentucky Derby party continues to heat up as 19 top international chefs announce their menu offerings and wine pairings for the third annual Taste of Derby – the Official Kentucky Derby Party of Churchill Downs. At this celebration of cuisine and racing on Thursday, May 3, the eve of the Kentucky Oaks, guests will mingle with horse racing and Hollywood celebrities and savor exquisite cuisine and delectable wines from racing destinations across the country as internationally-renowned chefs serve samples of their regional specialties.

Taste of Derby, which attracts more than 1,250 guests, has moved to the Louisville Executive Aviation Hangar at Bowman Field this year to accommodate its growing demand. Tickets are $300 and include a red carpet entry starting at 7 p.m., food and wine tastings until 10 p.m., premium open bar until 11 p.m., complimentary valet service, and live entertainment by one of country’s most popular dance bands, Burning Las Vegas.

The state of Washington’s 14 Hands Vineyards has been named the official wine of Taste of Derby and will showcase its wines at each chef station with a pairing to compliment the cuisine. In addition, 14 Hands will have a sommelier station that will showcase a special selection of exquisite new world wines.  

Additional Taste of Derby beverage partners add international flair. Stella Artois, the Official Beer Sponsor of Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby, is the number one Belgian beer in the world. The brand’s nine-step pouring ritual will be featured at the event. Brand representatives from Kentucky’s own Woodford Reserve, the Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, will teach guests how to make a mint julep, and Scotland’s award-winning Hendrick’s Gin will be highlighting its Cucumber Collins. Longines, the Official Timekeeper of the Kentucky Derby, will showcase the three luxurious Swiss watches that will be gifted to the winning owner, trainer and jockey of the Kentucky Derby.

Creekstone Farms Premium Black Angus Beef will present the second annual “Chef Showdown” at Taste of Derby where three culinary student finalists from Sullivan University in Louisville will compete for a $5,000 scholarship by creating a potentially award-winning dish in 20 minutes. Also, the Kentucky Derby 138 solid-gold winning trophy is scheduled to make an appearance.

Through the Churchill Downs Incorporated Foundation, partial proceeds from Taste of Derby will go to its new official charitable recipient, Blessings in a Backpack. Blessings in a Backpack is a Louisville-born charity that is growing nationally as it fulfills its commitment to “Feeding the Future of America.”  In addition, partial proceeds of Taste of Derby go to hunger relief organizations in areas represented by the participating chefs. In just two years, a total of $121,000 has been contributed to hunger relief organizations around the world through the event.

Taste of Derby is modeled after the popular Taste of the NFL, a 20-year-old event founded by nationally known restaurateur and 2010 James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year Wayne Kostroski. Churchill Downs partnered with Kostroski in 2010 to create Taste of Derby to expose Louisvillians and the thousands of out-of-town guests who visit the Kentucky Derby annually to these great racing communities across the country and the regional flavors that make them as unique as the Derby City.

For additional event information or to purchase tickets, visit the event Web site at TasteofDerby.com. Last year’s event sold out so attendees are encouraged to act promptly. 

About Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs, the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track.  Churchill Downs will conduct the 138^th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 5, 2012. The track’s 2012 Spring Meet is scheduled for April 28-July 1. Churchill Downs has hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championships a record eight times. Information about Churchill Downs can be found at www.churchilldowns.com.

About 14 Hands

14 Hands celebrates the unbridled spirit of the wild horses that once freely roamed eastern Washington. For those who savor a taste of history and adventure, the epic story of the wild horse—as vibrant and colorful as that portrayed on the 14 Hands label—just might unleash a bold conversation at your next gathering. For more information on 14 Hands, please visit www.14hands.com.

About Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve, the “Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby”, is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky - the heart of thoroughbred country. Woodford Reserve is a product of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands such as Jack Daniel’s, Southern Comfort, Finlandia, Korbel, Tequila Herradura, Sonoma-Cutrer, Chambord, and Tuaca. Please enjoy your bourbon responsibly. For more information on Woodford Reserve, visit www.woodfordreserve.com.

About Creekstone Farms Premium Beef

The choice of food lovers across the world, Creekstone Farms Premium Beef, LLC is USDA certified by the Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS) and supplies many of the nation’s top grocers and restaurants with quality Black Angus Beef products, ranging from high-quality Prime grade fresh beef to premium value-added products. Creekstone exports its premium quality products to Europe, Latin America and Asia and is owned by Sun Capital Partners, one of America’s largest private investment companies. For more information, please contact Jim Rogers at (620) 741-3352.

About Hendrick’s Gin

Hendrick’s is the most unusual Gin that has taken the world by storm since it was first introduced, thanks to its delightfully unique flavour, which combines a distinct blend of eleven botanicals, as well as the signature infusions of Cucumber and Rose petals, producing a wonderfully refreshing gin with a delightfully unique aroma. Hand crafted in Scotland in miniscule batches by William Grant & Sons, Hendrick’s uses a marriage of spirits from a Carter-Head and Copper Pot Still, a combination that produces a divinely smooth gin that has both the required character and balance of subtle flavours. In the ten years since Hendrick’s was first introduced to America, it has gained widespread acclaim and received numerous awards, including a Double gold medal at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition; ‘Gin of the Year’ at the Food and Wine Magazine Awards; voted ‘World’s Best Gin’ by the Wall Street Journal and named “Distiller of the Year” at the 2010 Wine Enthusiast Awards. Hendrick’s Gin has an ABV of 44% and an RRP of $34.99. For further information, visit www.hendricksgin.com. Please enjoy the unusual responsibly.

About Stella Artois

Stella Artois® is part of a Belgian brewing tradition dating back to 1366. It is the number one Belgian beer in the world and is present in over 80 countries. Stella Artois® is a bottom filtered, blonde pilsner. It is thirst quenching with a malty middle and crisp finish delivering a full flavor and a hint of bitterness. Stella Artois® is best enjoyed served between 3 and 5 degree Celsius and should be served in the unique Stella Artois® Chalice according to the 9-Step Pouring Ritual to guarantee a perfect experience of this gold standard lager.  Visit www.stellaartois.com for more information.

About Longines

Longines has been based at Saint-Imier, Switzerland, since 1832. It is celebrating 180 years of non-stop craftsmanship in 2012 and its watchmaking expertise reflects a strong devotion to tradition, elegance and performance. It has generations of experience as the official timekeeper at world championships and as a partner of international sports federations. Over the years, the brand has built strong and long-lasting links with the equestrian sports. Longines is a member of The Swatch Group S.A., the world’s leading manufacturer of horological products. With an excellent reputation for creating refined timepieces, the brand, whose emblem is the winged hourglass, has outlets in over 130 countries.

About Blessings in a Backpack

Blessings in a Backpack is a results-oriented program. This unique program is designed to feed elementary school children whose families qualify for the federally funded National School Lunch Program and have little or no food on the weekends. Better test scores, improved reading skills, positive behavior, improved health and increased attendance have all been attributed to the success of this program. $80 feeds one American school child in our program for an entire 38-week school year. Blessings in a Backpack is currently feeding over 50,000 children in 376 schools across 39 U.S. states and three countries (see all at blessingsinabackpack.org/programlocations). We are Feeding the Future of America® - one school at a time. 

- END -

A longtime horse racing fan from New York has won a chance to place a life-changing $100,000 win bet in the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands on Saturday, May 5.

Joel Einhorn of Flushing, N.Y. was randomly selected to place the grandiose free wager in conjunction with the $100,000 Kentucky Derby DreamBet online contest, which was offered by Churchill Downs, NBC Sports and CNBC for the third consecutive year.

“I saw (five-time Horse of the Year) Kelso run in an allowance race at Aqueduct in 1960 and have been hooked ever since,” Einhorn said. “I’ve been an owner, a spectator and a handicapper for over 50 years. This is the fruition of a lifetime dream.” 

Einhorn, 68, hopes to follow in the footsteps of inaugural contest winner, Glen Fullerton of Houston, who won $900,000 when Super Saver won the 2010 Kentucky Derby at odds of 8-1. Last year, Dave “Rico” Flores of Chicago came close but fell short when Mucho Macho Man finished third behind Animal Kingdom.

For media opportunities with Einhorn, please contact Susan McNeese Lynch at (502) 836-5347.

NBC’s exclusive coverage of Kentucky Derby 138 on Saturday, May 5 will air from 4-7 p.m. ET – the centerpiece of 14 ½ hours of Kentucky Derby Week coverage on NBC and NBC Sports Network.

Churchill Downs, the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track. Churchill Downs will conduct the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 5, 2012, and its Spring Meet is scheduled for April 28-July 1. The track has hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championships a record eight times. Information about Churchill Downs can be found on the Internet at www.churchilldowns.com.

- END -

 Churchill Downs has opened its on-site ticket office for convenient walk-up purchase of tickets for the upcoming April 28-July 1 Spring Meet that include general admission tickets to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (Grade I) and Kentucky Oaks (GI); a limited number of tickets for seating in Section 125 that include on-site hospitality in the Infield Club on either Derby or Oaks Day; and the third annual “Taste of Derby” party on Thursday, May 3.

The on-track box office at Churchill Downs is located at the Gate 1 entrance off Central Avenue, adjacent to the Kentucky Derby Museum.  It was open for the first time in 2012 on Monday, April 16 and will open again this week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (all times Eastern) on Wednesday, April 18, and Friday, April 20.  The on-site box office will operate next week on a Monday-through-Saturday schedule that includes Monday-Friday hours of 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and special hours on Saturday, April 28 – the date of the Spring Meet’s “Opening Night” – of noon-to-9 p.m.

During Kentucky Derby and Oaks Week, the on-track box office will be open from Monday, April 23, to Thursday, April 25, with daily hours of 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The price of general admission to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks remains unchanged since 2001 for tickets purchased in advance, but walk-up tickets on the respective days of those events will cost more.

The general admission price for the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 5 will remain at $40 for tickets purchased in advance either through the on-track box office or the online box office at www.ChurchillDowns.com/tickets. Kentucky Oaks general admission will remain at $25 for advance purchase either through the online box office or at Gate 1.  A special low convenience fee of $1 will be assessed on each advance general admission ticket purchased at either location.  The convenience fee for reserved seating for both events is $5 per ticket.

The walk-up price for a general admission ticket to the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 5, will be $50, an increase of $10 from 2011, and general admission tickets to the Kentucky Oaks purchased at any of the track’s gates on Friday, May 4, will be $30, an increase of $5 from last year.

Fans still looking for a seat at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby or Oaks rather than the “standing room only” status provided by general admission tickets can, for a limited time, purchase some of the limited seating remaining in Section 125, which includes access to the Infield Club.  That ticket also includes food served in the Infield Club and is now available as a single-day Oaks or Derby option.  Those seats are available for purchase through April 20 at either the on-site box office or through www.ChurchillDowns.com/tickets.

The Section 125 tickets had previously been available for purchase only in a two-day, Oaks-Derby package.

The schedule of on-track events with tickets available for purchase either at Churchill Downs or online is headed by the “Opening Night” program that launches both the 39-day racing session including Kentucky Derby Week.  The first “Opening Night” attracted 38,142 fans a year ago – a record night racing crowd and the largest attendance in track history for a racing session other than a Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks or a visit by the Breeders’ Cup.  The $200,000-added The Cliff’s Edge Derby Trial, a Grade III event that is the final major prep for the Kentucky Derby, is the featured racing attraction.

Tickets can still be purchased at either the on-track box office or online for the Taste of Derby party, an exciting addition to Kentucky Derby tradition that returns for its third year on Thursday, May 3 at Louisville Executive Aviation at Bowman Field. Award-winning chefs and racing personalities join Derby and Oaks fans at this great event that will benefit Blessings in a Backpack, Taste of Derby’s official charity partner.  Information on this incredible evening is available online at www.kentuckyderby.com/tasteofderby.

Three “Downs After Dark” night racing events are scheduled during the second half of the meet and, for the first time, all will be conducted on Saturday evenings and include stakes races among their highlights.  The 2012 “Downs After Dark” dates include:

• Saturday, June 2 – Three $100,000-added stakes races – the Early Times Mint Julep Handicap, the Aristides and the Winning Colors – are among the evening’s highlights;
• Saturday, June 16 – The first nighttime running of the Grade I, $400,000 Stephen Foster Handicap tops a racing schedule that also includes three other major stakes races in the Fleur de Lis Handicap, the Matt Winn and the Regret.  Stephen Foster night will be the greatest display of racing talent in the history of “Downs After Dark”; 
• Saturday, June 30 – The return of “The White Party’ and the $100,000 Bashford Manor Stakes for 2-year-olds – an early prep for the 2013 Kentucky Derby – top the entertainment schedule for this ‘Downs After Dark’ celebration during the Spring Meet’s final weekend.

Exactly 30 days before the 138^th running of the $2 million-guaranteed Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (Grade I), the solid gold trophy that will be presented to the owner of the Derby-winning 3-year-old has arrived at Churchill Downs.

The trophy was lovingly crafted by artisans at New England Sterling in Attleboro, Mass., in a creative process that began last fall.  The finished product was delivered to the home of the Kentucky Derby on Thursday, April 5 by New England Sterling President Marc Forbes and unveiled to members of the media in ceremonies in the Directors Room of the Churchill Downs Clubhouse.  Forbes also delivered three smaller, sterling silver replica trophies that will be presented to the Derby’s winning trainer, jockey and breeder.

The Kentucky Derby 138 Winner’s Trophy stands 22 inches tall, not including its jade base, and weighs about 60 ounces. It is topped by a 14-karat gold horse and rider and has horseshoe-shaped handles.

"We spend about 2,000 man hours making this trophy and the effort is a tremendous point of pride for all involved in that work,” Forbes said.  “This trophy is a prize that is absolutely priceless.   That’s not only because of the value of the 14-karat gold that makes up the trophy, but because of what it means to win the Kentucky Derby. This trophy is something you cannot buy. To acquire it you have to win America’s greatest race, and that is one of the most difficult accomplishments in sports.”

The current design of the Kentucky Derby winner’s trophy dates to 1924, when Col. Matt Winn, Churchill Downs’ legendary general manager and eventual track president, commissioned the trophy for the Derby’s “golden anniversary” running.  Two earlier versions of the trophy had been presented to the winning owner in 1922 and 1923.

            The trophy will be in the care of the Kentucky Derby Museum in the days leading up to the May 5 “Run for the Roses.”  It traditionally makes several public appearances prior to the race. 

- more -

Solid Gold Winner’s Trophy for Kentucky Derby 138 Has Arrived at Churchill Downs

Thursday, April 5, 2012

            This year’s travel itinerary for the Kentucky Derby Winner’s trophy includes stops at the Kentucky Derby Museum Gala on April 27, the Kentucky Derby Media Party on May 2, the Taste of Derby Party on May 3 and the Middletown Kroger on Kentucky Oaks Night, May 4.  In the latter event, the trophy will be on display while the Kroger team members create the traditional garland of roses that will be worn by the Kentucky Derby winner on the following day.

            Outside of jeweled embellishments made to the trophy for the special anniversary renewals in 1949 (75^th Derby), 1974 (100^th), and 1999 (125^th), there has been only one significant change in the trophy’s design.  That change also came in 1999, when track officials deferred to Thoroughbred racing tradition and changed the direction of a decorative horseshoe on the trophy.  The horseshoe had pointed downward on each trophy created since 1924, but the design was altered and the horseshoe was turned up on the 1999 Derby trophy.  Racing superstition holds that all of the luck will run out of a horseshoe that is turned downward.

For the first time, Churchill Downs Racetrack and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will offer special Horsepower vs. Horsepower ticket packages for two of the world’s most legendary sporting events, the Kentucky Derby and Indianapolis 500.

These special packages include tickets for the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands on Saturday, May 5 and the 96th Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, May 27. Also included are tickets to the 138th running of the Kentucky Oaks for 3-year old Thoroughbred fillies on Friday, May 4 and Miller Lite Carb Day on Friday, May 25 at IMS. Miller Lite Carb Day features the final Indianapolis 500 practice, Firestone Freedom 100 Firestone Indy Lights race, the Indy 500 Pit Stop Challenge and a concert featuring Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Two Horsepower vs. Horsepower packages are available:

*    Party Pack: The Party Pack features general admission tickets to the Kentucky Oaks, the Kentucky Derby, Miller Lite Carb Day and the Indianapolis 500, and access to the Snake Pit on Race Day at the Indianapolis 500. Among other features, Party Pack ticket holders will have front-row access to a performance by a nationally known DJ/producer on the Snake Pit stage and can watch the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert on Miller Lite Carb Day from a specially designated area near the front of the stage. The Party Pack ticket package is $115 per person.

*    Club Pack: The Club Pack features first-floor reserved grandstand bleacher seating at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby, which includes a lunch buffet in the Infield Club. In addition to other premium features, ticketholders will receive admission to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s Brickyard Club, reserved grandstand seats for the Indianapolis 500 and access to a fully catered premium food buffet and complimentary bar. The Club Pack ticket package is $995 per person.

The Club Pack is available while supplies last through Sunday, April 15, while the Party Pack can be purchased through Thursday, May 3. Both packages can be purchased at www.ChurchillDowns.com or  www.imstix.com.

This is the first joint promotion between IMS and Churchill Downs, but there are interesting ties between the two legendary venues.

Ray Harroun won four of nine automobile races conducted July 8, 1910 at Churchill Downs. Less than a year later, Harroun earned racing immortality by winning the inaugural Indianapolis 500 on May 30, 1911. 1912 Indianapolis 500 winner Joe Dawson finished second to Harroun in three of the races that day at Churchill Downs.

Only one person has owned a horse in the Kentucky Derby and a car in the Indianapolis 500 – reclusive oil millionaire Howard B. Keck. He made even more history by winning both races.
   
Bill Vukovich drove Keck’s No. 14 Fuel Injection Special to consecutive “500” victories in 1953 and 1954. Bill Shoemaker rode Ferdinand, owned by Keck in his wife’s name, to victory in the 1986 Kentucky Derby.

2012 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks tickets: Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks general admission and tickets and seating for all racing dates and special events for Churchill Downs’ 2012 Spring Meet are available for purchase through the historic track’s online box office at www.churchilldowns.com/tickets. General admission for the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 5 is $40 if purchased in advance or $50 at admission gates on the day of the race. Kentucky Oaks general admission is $25 in advance or $30 for walk-ups on the Friday, May 4 event. Fans still looking for a seat at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby and Oaks rather than the “standing room only” status provided by general admission can still purchase Infield Club seating for both days. That hospitality venue ticket includes a reserved seat for both days in sections 124 or 125 with hospitality and food provided in the Infield Club.

2012 Indianapolis 500 tickets: Tickets are on sale for the 96th Indianapolis 500 Mile Race on Sunday, May 27 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Race Day ticket prices start at just $30. Fans can buy tickets online at www.imstix.com, by calling the IMS ticket office at (317) 492-6700, or (800) 822-INDY outside the Indianapolis area, or by visiting the ticket office at the IMS Administration Building at the corner of Georgetown Road and 16th Street between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday-Friday. Children 12 and under will be receive free general admission to any IMS event in 2012 when accompanied by an adult general admission ticket holder. Tickets for groups of 20 or more also are on sale. Contact the IMS Group Sales Department at (866) 221-8775 for more information.

Churchill Downs, the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track. Churchill Downs will conduct the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 5, 2012, and its Spring Meet is scheduled for April 28-July 1. The track has hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championships a record eight times. Information about Churchill Downs can be found on the Internet at www.churchilldowns.com.

After a career of more than 45 years at Churchill Downs Racetrack, the historic home of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (Grade I), Track Superintendent Raymond “Butch” Lehr will retire from that post when the track concludes its 2012 Spring Meet on Sunday, July 1.

Lehr, 63, started his lifetime career at Churchill Downs when he was hired as a member of the backside maintenance crew in 1967. He was appointed in 1976 to serve as assistant track superintendent under the revered veteran Thurman Pangburn, succeeded Pangburn as track superintendent in 1982.

Highlights of Lehr’s more than 30 years at Churchill Downs include oversight of the design and construction of Churchill Downs’ Matt Winn Turf Course, which opened in 1986 and allowed the track to become the most popular host of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships; the conversion of the former Louisville Downs harness track into Trackside Training Center, which includes a six-furlong training surface that mirrors Churchill Downs’ one-mile sandy loam racing oval; installation and updates of drainage systems for the track’s dirt and grass courses; and a leadership role in safety programs and initiatives at the track that in 2009 enabled Churchill Downs to become the first track to receive accreditation from the National Thoroughbred Racing Association’s (“NTRA”) Safety & Integrity Alliance.

Lehr’s efforts in leading his track maintenance team have led to praise for the Churchill Downs racing surfaces for being among the safest and fairest courses in North American and the world.  His expertise on track maintenance and construction has been sought by tracks throughout North America and around the globe.  Those efforts include work in the early 1990s as a consultant on the maintenance of the dirt course at Dubai’s Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, which opened in 1986 and hosted the Dubai World Cup, UAE Derby and other world class racing events through 2009.

“I came to work here because I needed a job and ended up working my whole life here, and it’s been a good life,” Lehr said.  “I’ve had some other opportunities and offers through the years, but any move away from Churchill is downhill, in my opinion.  I was born and raised here.  I have pictures of my dad on a horse here, my uncle (Charlie Voneye) was assistant track superintendent at Churchill and I’ve had a great opportunity to work with my brother, David, through the years on track projects here.  It’s been special to see some of the great horses that have come through here and what they’ve accomplished, and it’s a good feeling to know you had something to do with it.”

“The work and leadership of Butch Lehr and his outstanding track crews during his three decades as track superintendent has been vitally important to Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby and Oaks, and all of Thoroughbred racing,” said Kevin Flanery, president of Churchill Downs Racetrack. “Of course, his work is not quite done – he still has the 138th Kentucky Derby and Oaks and an important Spring Meet on the horizon.  But we hope people throughout Thoroughbred racing will join us in thanking Butch for his work and dedication, and wish him the best as he leads his team through his final Churchill Downs meet.”

Flanery said the search for Lehr’s successor has begun. He said the search would be “comprehensive,” but gave no timetable for when the track hoped to complete its rare task of naming a new track superintendent.  Pangburn served in that post from 1962-1981, and his predecessor, Tom Young, who was hired by legendary Churchill Downs General Manager (and later President) Matt Winn in 1911, held the job for 50 years.

Chefs, Partners Sign On for Official Kentucky Derby Party of Churchill Downs; Event Has Raised $121,000 for Hunger Relief; This Year’s Beneficiary is ‘Blessings In A Backpack’

The perfect Kentucky Derby appetizer returns Thursday, May 3 as Churchill Downs stages its third annual Taste of Derby – a celebration of cuisine and racing on the eve of the Kentucky Oaks. Taste of Derby attendees will mingle with horse racing and Hollywood celebrities and savor exquisite cuisine and delectable wines from racing destinations across the country as nationally-renowned chefs serve samples of their regional specialties.

The hottest new Kentucky Derby party, which attracted more than 1,000 guests a year ago, moves to the Louisville Executive Aviation Hangar at Bowman Field in 2012 to accommodate its growing demand. Tickets to the May 3 Taste of Derby – the Official Kentucky Derby Party of Churchill Downs – are $300 and include a red carpet entry starting at 7 p.m., food and wine tastings until 10 p.m., premium open bar until 11 p.m., complimentary valet service, and live entertainment by one of Nashville’s hottest dance bands, Burning Las Vegas.

The roster of award-winning chefs participating in this year’s Taste of Derby include Brian Malarkey and Eli Kirshtein, alumni of Bravo TV’s “Top Chef” series; Nancy Longo of Baltimore’s Pierpoint Restaurant; Carrie Nahabedian of Chicago’s Naha Restaurant; Kent Rathbun of Dallas’ Abacus; Troy Guard of Denver’s TAG; Musabbeh Al Kaabi of Dubai’s Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel; Ouita Michel of Midway, Ky.’s Holly Hill Inn; Jo-Jo Doyle of Churchill Downs’ Levy Restaurants; Anthony Llamas of Louisville’s Seviche Restaurant; Michael Paley of Louisville’s Proof on Main; Tory McPhail of New Orleans’ Commander’s Palace; Nicolas Bour of San Diego’s El BiZCOCH and Bart Vandaele of Washington D.C.’s Belga Café for Stella Artois.

For a complete listing of participating chefs, additional event information or to purchase tickets, visit the event Web site at TasteofDerby.com. Last year’s event sold out so attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets early. 

The state of Washington’s 14 Hands Vineyards has been named the official Taste of Derby wine sponsor and will showcase its wines at each chef station with a pairing to compliment the cuisine. In addition, 14 Hands will have a sampling station that will showcase a special selection of exquisite new world wines.  

“14 Hands wines hold universal appeal,” 14 Hands winemaker Keith Kenison said. “From the beginner to the more cultivated palate, our wines deliver rich, bold flavors harnessed from the plush terroir of eastern Washington. Taste of Derby offers a prime opportunity for us to demonstrate 14 Hands’ immense versatility.”

Additional Taste of Derby beverage partners add international flair. Award-winning Hendrick’s Gin is crafted in Scotland and Stella Artois, the Official Beer Sponsor of Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby, is the number one Belgian beer in the world. Kentucky’s own Woodford Reserve, the Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, will serve as the bourbon sponsor for Taste of Derby. Also, Creekstone Farms Premium Black Angus Beef will present the second annual “Chef Showdown” at Taste of Derby where three culinary student finalists from Sullivan University in Louisville will compete for scholarships by creating a potentially award-winning dish in 20 minutes.

Through the Churchill Downs Incorporated Foundation, partial proceeds from Taste of Derby will go to its new official charitable recipient, Blessings in a Backpack. Blessings in a Backpack is a Louisville-born charity that is growing nationally as it fulfills its commitment to “Feeding the Future of America.”

“Blessings in a Backpack is proud of our partnership with Churchill Downs and the extraordinary Taste of Derby,” said Blessings in a Backpack founder Stan Curtis. “Because of this powerful partnership and what it stands for, many American school children are going to have better nutrition in their lives.”

In addition, partial proceeds of Taste of Derby go to hunger relief organizations in areas represented by the participating chefs. In just two years, a total of $121,000 has been contributed to hunger relief organizations around the world through the event.

“Taste of Derby is the perfect beginning to a weekend of exciting thoroughbred racing matched with great food, fun, friends and philanthropy,” said Kevin Flanery, president of Churchill Downs Racetrack. “We look forward to welcoming our local fans and out-of-town friends alike.”

Taste of Derby is modeled after the popular Taste of the NFL, a 20-year-old event founded by nationally known restaurateur and 2010 James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year Wayne Kostroski. Churchill Downs partnered with Kostroski in 2010 to create Taste of Derby to expose Louisvillians and the thousands of out-of-town guests who visit the Kentucky Derby annually to these great racing communities across the country and the regional flavors that make them as unique as the Derby City.

About Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs, the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875. Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track.  Churchill Downs will conduct the 138^th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 5, 2012. The track’s 2012 Spring Meet is scheduled for April 28-July 1. Churchill Downs has hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championships a record eight times. Information about Churchill Downs can be found at www.churchilldowns.com.

About 14 Hands

14 Hands celebrates the unbridled spirit of the wild horses that once freely roamed eastern Washington. For those who savor a taste of history and adventure, the epic story of the wild horse—as vibrant and colorful as that portrayed on the 14 Hands label—just might unleash a bold conversation at your next gathering. For more information on 14 Hands, please visit www.14hands.com.

About Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve, the “Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby”, is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky - the heart of thoroughbred country. Woodford Reserve is a product of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands such as Jack Daniel’s, Southern Comfort, Finlandia, Korbel, Tequila Herradura, Sonoma-Cutrer, Chambord, and Tuaca. Please enjoy your bourbon responsibly. For more information on Woodford Reserve, visit www.woodfordreserve.com.

About Creekstone Farms Premium Beef

The choice of food lovers across the world, Creekstone Farms Premium Beef, LLC is USDA certified by the Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS) and supplies many of the nation’s top grocers and restaurants with quality Black Angus Beef products, ranging from high-quality Prime grade fresh beef to premium value-added products. Creekstone exports its premium quality products to Europe, Latin America and Asia and is owned by Sun Capital Partners, one of America’s largest private investment companies. For more information, please contact Jim Rogers at (620) 741-3352.

About Hendrick’s Gin

Hendrick’s is the most unusual Gin that has taken the world by storm since it was first introduced, thanks to its delightfully unique flavour, which combines a distinct blend of eleven botanicals, as well as the signature infusions of Cucumber and Rose petals, producing a wonderfully refreshing gin with a delightfully unique aroma. Hand crafted in Scotland in miniscule batches by William Grant & Sons, Hendrick’s uses a marriage of spirits from a Carter-Head and Copper Pot Still, a combination that produces a divinely smooth gin that has both the required character and balance of subtle flavours. In the ten years since Hendrick’s was first introduced to America, it has gained widespread acclaim and received numerous awards, including a Double gold medal at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition; ‘Gin of the Year’ at the Food and Wine Magazine Awards; voted ‘World’s Best Gin’ by the Wall Street Journal and named “Distiller of the Year” at the 2010 Wine Enthusiast Awards. Hendrick’s Gin has an ABV of 44% and an RRP of $34.99. For further information, visit www.hendricksgin.com. Please enjoy the unusual responsibly.

About Stella Artois

Stella Artois® is part of a Belgian brewing tradition dating back to 1366. It is the number one Belgian beer in the world and is present in over 80 countries. Stella Artois® is a bottom filtered, blonde pilsner. It is thirst quenching with a malty middle and crisp finish delivering a full flavor and a hint of bitterness. Stella Artois® is best enjoyed served between 3 and 5 degree Celsius and should be served in the unique Stella Artois® Chalice according to the 9-Step Pouring Ritual to guarantee a perfect experience of this gold standard lager.  Visit www.stellaartois.com for more information.

About Blessings in a Backpack

Blessings in a Backpack is a results-oriented program. This unique program is designed to feed elementary school children whose families qualify for the federally funded National School Lunch Program and have little or no food on the weekends. Better test scores, improved reading skills, positive behavior, improved health and increased attendance have all been attributed to the success of this program. $80 feeds one American school child in our program for an entire 38-week school year. Blessings in a Backpack is currently feeding over 50,000 children in 376 schools across 39 U.S. states and three countries (see all at blessingsinabackpack.org/programlocations). We are Feeding the Future of America® - one school at a time.