Advice for a great Derby

The ripple effect of the bad weather continues to leave a mark on some of the Kentucky Derby festivities. But there is nothing that can put a damper on the Kentucky Oaks and Derby. Whether the rain continues to fall or the sun decides to make a surprising appearance, Louisvillians understand the show must go on. I asked some local diehards for advice about the Derby.

Scott Reid

What insight would you share with someone who is attending his or her first Kentucky Derby?
The Derby is a marathon, not a sprint. If you’re a Derby virgin, pace yourself, and don’t try to break from the gate like the horses do. The number of events and the week’s logistics can be overwhelming, so try to take in all the sights and sounds of the moment.

While the race is all about the horses, Derby is all about the people, the place, the pomp and the pageantry. Whether you were born here or not, during Derby week, the sun always shines bright on our old Kentucky home.
– Scott Reid

Nancy Burke

Is there a moment during the Kentucky Derby that is most memorable?
There is nothing quite like that moment late in the afternoon on Derby Day when the crowd of over 150,000 becomes quiet, mint juleps in hand, and grabs the ones they  love and stands poised to sing “My Old Kentucky Home.” The ultimate magical moment is the point in the song where the massive crowd croons “weep no more my lady.” It brings tears to my eyes.
– Nancy Burke

Lisa Causarano

Of all the Derby parties to attend, which is your favorite?
This year my favorite event will be the Brunch with Betsey Johnson! I can’t think of a better way to kick off the weekend than visiting with all of my girlfriends at a fun brunch that celebrates a great cause.
– Lisa Causarano

Bryan Sperry

In the weeks leading up to the Kentucky Derby, what are your favorite events?
Chow Wagon – Seeing the vendors setting up on the riverfront reminds me that the Derby is only a couple of weeks away … there’s nothing better than spending a two-hour lunch under I-64 eating corn dogs, deep-fried snickers and a cold beverage with friends and debating whether we’re really going to make it back to the office.

Taste of Derby Festival – Bourbon flights, a Bloody Mary contest, wine tastings and great food from Louisville’s finest – what’s not to love, and all for a great charity, Dare to Care. Sign me up.

MGM WingDing – One of my favorite events, started by some college friends, is now in its 21st year and is held the Thursday night before Derby (this year at the Bard’s Town). The triple ice luge, mechanical bull riding, live music and an endless supply of Gheddo’s hottest wings are just some of the highlights. It may not have the star power of the Barnstable Brown party, but rumor has it that Lindsay Lohan was spotted at last year’s WingDing stealing a Shenanigan’s T-shirt.
– Bryan Sperry

Tags: Advice for Derby, Kentucky Derby

Category: Take It or Leave It