Kentucky Derby Events in Wichita

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Are you looking for somewhere to wear a big hat and get dressed up? We have a list of Kentucky Derby events in Wichita this year. The Kentucky Derby is on May 4th, 2024. The Derby is one of the most prestigious horse races in the United States, held annually in Louisville, Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May. It’s the first leg of the American Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

The Kentucky Derby was first run in 1875 at Churchill Downs, and it has since become one of the longest-running sporting events in the U.S. It has a rich history and is often referred to as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” due to its typically short duration.

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby:

• Churchill Downs has seats for 150,000 guests for the race.
• The winner will receive $3.1 million, with the runner-up getting $1 million. Third place will make $500,000, fourth will make $250,000, and fifth will take home $150,000.
• The infield of Churchill Downs is known for its lively party atmosphere during the Kentucky Derby.
• A famous tradition is that attendees wear elaborate hats and drink Mint Juleps.
• Winning the Kentucky Derby is a significant achievement for any horse, but the ultimate goal for many owners and trainers is the Triple Crown. A horse must win the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes (held two weeks after the Derby), and the Belmont Stakes (held three weeks after the Preakness) to claim the Triple Crown.
• The winning horse of the Kentucky Derby is draped with a garland of roses, a tradition that dates back to 1896 when the rose became the official flower of the race.
• Donerail holds the record for being the longest shot to win the Kentucky Derby, with odds of 91-1 when he won in 1913.

Several movies have portrayed or referenced the Kentucky Derby in various ways. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Secretariat (2010): This film is based on the true story of the legendary racehorse Secretariat, who won the Triple Crown in 1973. While the movie focuses on Secretariat’s entire career, including the Kentucky Derby, it offers a compelling depiction of the excitement and drama of the race.
2. Seabiscuit (2003): Although Seabiscuit didn’t compete in the Kentucky Derby, the movie portrays the horse’s rise to fame during the Great Depression era, culminating in his legendary match race against War Admiral. While not directly about the Kentucky Derby, it’s a classic horse racing film.
3. The First Saturday in May (2007): This documentary follows six trainers and their horses as they prepare for the 2006 Kentucky Derby. It provides an inside look at the world of horse racing leading up to the prestigious event.
4. Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story (2005): While not centered solely on the Kentucky Derby, this film tells the story of a racehorse named Sonador and her unlikely journey to racing success. The Kentucky Derby features prominently in the film as a pinnacle of achievement in the racing world.
5. Let It Ride (1989): This comedy film revolves around a day at the racetrack, where the main character, played by Richard Dreyfuss, experiences a winning streak. While it’s not specifically about the Kentucky Derby, it captures the excitement and unpredictability of horse racing.
6. Luck (2011-2012): While not a movie but a TV series, “Luck” deserves a mention as it provides a detailed look into the world of horse racing, including the Kentucky Derby. The show delves into the lives of various characters involved in the racing industry and explores the highs and lows of the sport.

Kentucky Derby Events in Wichita 2024:

• Chicken N Pickle is having an all-day Kentucky Derby extravaganza at Chicken N Pickle! Kick off the festivities with a delightful brunch before placing your bets to win a $50 Chicken N Pickle gift card. Cheer on your favorite pickleball teams at the “Bourbon on the Backcourt” tournament while flaunting your finest Derby attire. Indulge in derby-themed drinks and test your knowledge with trivia for a day filled with fun, competition, and Southern charm!
• White Crow Cider Company. May the 4th be with you! Star Wars Day and the Kentucky Derby fall on the same day this year, so we decided to celebrate both with our very own CiDerby. Teams of 2 will compete in a game of racing light sabers (no actual running needed) with the audience cheering them on. Wear a fancy hat, your Star Wars gear, or a horse costume, or don’t dress up at all! All teams must be registered by 1:55 to participate in the derby but audience members can come anytime to cheer for their favorite Jedi or Sith. Prizes will be given to the top 3 teams. We want you to join us for a cider and some good Star Wars Ciderby fun!
• Olivers Lounge is hosting an event. Break out your fancy hats & let’s watch some horses race!
  Woodford Reserve is hosting a watch party starting at 4pm. They will have Kentucky Mint Juleps, Themed appetizers and Prize Giveaways.
• Kentucky Derby for a Cause. Join us for a Kentucky Derby event at Chicken N Pickle, hosted by RSS Wichita! Cost of the event is $50, and will include two drinks tickets and hors d’oeuvres. Bring your best Kentucky Derby hats and fascinators for a chance to win a prize package for Best Hat! The first 50 people to purchase tickets will be entered to win betting cards to place free bets for the winning horse. All proceeds will go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Wichita. Purchase tickets at https://one.bidpal.net/rsskentuckyderby 

We will continue to add to this list.