Churchill Downs will host a day-long at-home Kentucky Derby party in an effort to raise $2 million for COVID-19 emergency relief efforts. With this season's Kentucky Derby postponed until Sept. 5 due to the coronavirus pandemic, a special broadcast will be aired on NBC May 2, from 3 to 6 p.m. EST. The telecast will feature American Pharoah's 2015 Kentucky Derby in addition to Churchill Downs' first ever virtual horse race–The Kentucky Derby: Triple Crown Showdown, a computer-simulated version of a race.
“For many fans around the country, the first Saturday in May has become a part of their family's yearly traditions,” said Kevin Flanery, President of Churchill Downs. “While we eagerly look forward to the 146th Kentucky Derby this year on the first Saturday in September, we will celebrate the annual excitement of our traditional date with our fans and community by offering ways for us to join together for a great cause. Our fans will be captivated by the realistic view of the virtual race and we can debate, as we do each year, our favorite to win.”
The virtual race, created by Inspired Entertainment, will feature the 13 past Triple Crown winners and use data algorithms including historical handicapping information about each horse, which helps to determine the probability of their potential finishing positions.
Beginning Apr. 30, fans will be able to visit www.KentuckyDerby.com to choose their favorite horse to win the virtual race and also join Churchill Downs in making a donation to COVID-19 emergency relief efforts.
All participants who select the winning horse will be entered to win the ultimate Kentucky Derby 146 VIP Experience.
Churchill Downs has pledged to match up to $1 million of donations with funds to be directed to the Team Kentucky Fund and Direct Relief. A small percentage will be earmarked for the R.E.I.N. Fund (Relief for Equine Industry Needs), a program managed by Churchill Downs Foundation which benefits workers of the backside impacted by COVID-19 and to help ensure essential care for horses throughout the pandemic.
“The anticipation of which Triple Crown winner will emerge as the ultimate champion is thrilling,” said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Incorporated, “but most importantly, we are proud to use this platform as a force for good by raising money for these worthy COVID-19 emergency initiatives. We urge fans to join us by donating andcelebrating with us from home.”
Fans can join the virtual party by posting their home Derby Party experience using #KyDerbyAtHome May 2, and following @KentuckyDerby on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
For more information on the Derby day party, including party ideas, activities, kids' crafts, recipes and style tips, visit www.KentuckyDerbyParty.com.
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