Party is on for first Saturday in May. Charity celebration includes virtual Kentucky Derby.
The Kentucky Derby has been postponed until Sept. 5 because of the coronavirus pandemic, but horse racing enthusiasts will still have something special to celebrate on the first Saturday in May.
On Thursday, Churchill Downs announced plans to host a virtual race between the 13 Triple Crown winners on May 2. The two living Triple Crown winners, American Pharoah and Justify, will face off with legendary horses like Secretariat, Seattle Slew and Affirmed in a computer-simulated “Run for the Roses” to determine the greatest Thoroughbred of all time. The simulation will use data algorithms including handicapping information about each horse to determine how the race will play out.
“For many fans around the country, the first Saturday in May has become a part of their family’s yearly traditions,” Churchill Downs Racetrack President Kevin Flanery said. “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 derby will be the culmination of a special broadcast on NBC from 3 to 6 p.m. The coverage will also feature the 2015 Kentucky Derby, which launched the Triple Crown run of American Pharoah. Organizers hope to raise $2 million for coronavirus relief efforts during a full day of activities which will also play out over social media. Fans can follow @KentuckyDerby on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to join the interactive experience on May 2, which will include Kentucky Derby Museum tours, Derby-inspired recipes and more.
Additionally, the Kentucky Derby’s presenting sponsor, Woodford Reserve, has invited fans from around the world to partake in a virtual toast on its YouTube Live channel at 3 p.m.
“The anticipation of which Triple Crown winner will emerge as the ultimate champion is thrilling,” Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Incorporated, said. “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 and celebrating with us from home.”
Beginning on April 30 fans can visit www.KentuckyDerby.com to choose their favorite to win the virtual race and make a donation to COVID-19 relief efforts. Churchill Downs will match up to $1 million in contributions. Fans who predict the winning horse will be entered in a contest to win a VIP experience package at the actual live-action Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5.
A complete schedule and an updated list of activities that will be featured can be viewed at www.KentuckyDerbyParty.com.
