LOUISVILLE, Ky. (LEX 18) — Woodford Reserve and Churchill Downs have come together to announce a nationwide, at-home Kentucky Derby celebration, while also raising money for people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The day-long virtual experience will be on May 2, the original date for the running for the roses. This year's race has been postponed to September 5 due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Churchill Downs and Woodford Reserve have teamed up to offer content on social media throughout the day. The Kentucky Derby Museum will offer interactive virtual tours, and Derby-inspired recipes will be shared on the Kentucky Derby's official social media channels (Facebook, Twitter & Instagram). From 3:00-6:00 p.m., NBC will re-air the legendary 2015 Kentucky Derby, which began American Pharaoh's historic Triple Crown run.
Woodford Reserve's Master Distiller, Chris Morris, will demonstrate how to make the perfect Mint Julep, while talking about the history that connects thoroughbreds, bourbon and the Kentucky Derby. Meanwhile, Assistant Master Distiller, Elizabeth McCall, an expectant mother, will share her favorite mocktail recipes inspired by Kentucky Derby cocktail classics.
At 3:00 p.m., Morris and McCall will go live to join Kentucky Derby fans all around the world for a toast. The toast will be on Woodford Reserve's YouTube channel.
“The Kentucky Derby is not just a horse race -- it’s tradition, pageantry and history -- and it brings people together from across the globe for the Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” said Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Chris Morris. “Now more than ever, it is important to preserve that history and keep the tradition alive.”
The day will also include Churchill Downs' first-ever virtual horse race.
Beginning on April 30, fans can visit the Kentucky Derby's website to choose their favorite horse to win the virtual race. Fans can also join Churchill downs in making a donation to COVID-19 emergency efforts. Churchill Downs has pledged to match up to $1 million dollars of donations, making a potential donation of $2 million.
