One look at even an old photo of Muhammad Ali before a fight and you could see victory. Equine athletes are much the same, and the winner will show himself before a race too. Many have tried to explain this “X Factor” in both people and animals, but most agree you know it when you see it.
Reading Body Language: The X Factor
Horses will begin to give you clues during the walk-over for a race. You want to see a horse walking with purpose, pulling his handlers along, ears pricked forward in the direction of the paddock, head bowed and eyes bright, but not necessarily looking at anything in specific. They are eager and “pumped,” “on their toes” and dancing.
Again, think about how you saw Muahmmad Ali going to the ring. The winner will not be bothered by the crowd except by an occasional buck or leap, which might be similar to a human fist pump.
Most Kentucky Derby horses will have shiny, beautiful coats and will have great muscle definition, meaning the horse is in great health. What you are looking for is a coat that appears to be shining from the inside out – it will glimmer without the help of natural light (Think of a glowing pregnant mother). Dapples in the coat are another sign. If you can see the slightest dapples even on the rib cage, this horse is at a peak condition.
Horses that are nervous or fearful about the upcoming race will often have erratic ears, or ears pinned flat and back. They will often swish their tails in an east/west direction and will likely be sweating hard. While some sweat is acceptable between the back legs and on the neck, you don’t want to see sweat over the whole body. Be especially watchful when there is sweat on the top of the back called “kidney sweat.” This is a sign of a frightened or nervous horse and one should avoid betting on him.
The Telling Walk-Over
Once in the paddock, look for the horses who look like the footballs players do just before they burst through the paper sign and run onto the field. These horses know what’s coming next.
Watch the horses' gait as they move into the paddock. You want to see a free swinging shoulder with a large range of motion. Most importantly, watch the back feet. You want those back feet to step right into the footprint left by the front foot.
This “tracking up” is also important at the trot during the warm-up. The trot is a two-beat gait that you should be able to count. The hip range of motion should be equal to the shoulder.
A horse’s tail will give you further clues. You want to see a tail that is held away from the body or even arched. Compared to people, this is when you stand up straight and pull your shoulders back. The tail position indicates confidence, good conditioning and hind end/back strength.
Finally, observe the overall demeanor of the horse. Is this horse enjoying what he’s doing? Does the horse have good energy? Is he moving freely and breathing easily with good air exchange?
An example of a horse who has caught my eye in this way before past Kentucky Derbys is Union Rags, perhaps one of the prettiest horses I have ever seen. Rags thoroughly enjoyed seeing the crowds and had been bucking and playing in his gallops.
Dullahan has been the same. Churchill Downs is his home track and he’d been enjoying all the folks who have come to “his” party. Daddy Nose Best, on the other hand, was a very serious horse. He was not interested in the party – only the game. He was very focused on the job at hand, had his head well into the bridle and was training like a machine.
Each of the horses I just described also described their respective trainers’ demeanors.
Horses still respect the “leader of their herd” so they are likely taking their clues from their humans and mimicking them – their stress, their ease, their confidence, and their energy levels. So if you are a better reader of people than horses, be certain to watch the trainers closely at the track too as they may be your best indicator for picking the winner!
Do you have your own tips for spotting a winner? Share them with us in the comments below.
Use These Cues to Place Wagers at the 2015 Kentucky Derby!
Now that you know how to reading body language cues from horses, you're ready to spot a winning contender! Take the knowledge you've gained here and go forth to place your wagers on the next Kentucky Derby champion!
The first leg of the Triple Crown Series might seem like a far ways away now, but it's never too early to secure your spot at Churchill Downs. Get information on how you can package together the best seats in the stands, exclusive hospitality access, meet-and-greets with celebrities and other VIPs, luxurious accommodations, transportation, and so much more!
Call 1-888-384-7088 to speak to a representative or visit Derby Experiences website for more information. The Kentucky Derby is calling your name and it's time for you to answer.
Join the conversation on social media by using the hashtags #KyDerby and #DerbyVIP!
It’s common knowledge that attending the Kentucky Derby is as much about the official Kentucky Derby parties as it is the horse racing itself. Derby weekend is jam packed with parties popping off each evening to celebrate the high profile race being held at Churchill Downs. A-list celebrities, athletes and everyone who is anyone in horse racing makes the list to be at these top notch parties.
But what about you? Is getting an invite possible? And what about the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby? After all, you don’t want to skimp out on your experience at the track just to be able to afford to go to a Derby party. So what’s the solution?
My friends, it’s called the bundle affect and it’s coming your way via Official Ticket Packages direct from Churchill Downs!
For instance, you can receive an invite to the prestigious Taste of Derby™ party held on the eve of the Kentucky Oaks and still have access to an exclusive in-track hospitality venue complete with VIP amenities! How? With the Official Orange Grandstand Taste of Derby™ Party Package!
Keep on reading to take a look at the Taste of Derby™ Party, see what your view would be from the Grandstand on race days, and learn about the premium amenities you’d receive with the Orange Grandstand Party Package!
The Taste of Derby™ Party
Beginning the entire Kentucky Derby weekend, the Taste of Derby™ is held on Thurs. night, the eve of the Kentucky Oaks. Masterful chefs will all gather in one venue to create dishes from popular horse racing destinations across the country! You’ll be invited to mingle with some of the hottest names in Hollywood while sampling a variety of these exquisite dishes.
In addition to the stars and the delicious food, you’ll also have access to a premium open bar and live music will be playing throughout the evening, so bring your dancing shoes!
And what’s even cooler than the fact you’ll be walking the Red Carpet? You’ll also be contributing to a fantastic cause!
The Taste of Derby™ provides partial proceeds to contribute to help fight hunger in the United States. So while you’re having the time of your life at a high profile Kentucky Derby party, you’ll also be giving back to your neighborhoods.
This evening is the perfect combination of charity, cuisine, racing, and style!
The View from the Orange Grandstand
Orange Grandstand packages offer a spectacular view of the track from the Grandstand. Located in Sections 323-325 on the third floor of the Grandstand, you’ll have unobstructed views of the final turn, the final stretch and the finish line!
And with the world’s largest HD video board located right in front of the Grandstand, you’ll have impeccable views of the horses racing, even when they’re on the backstretch out of your direct line of sight.
Hospitality: the Affirmed Lounge
One of the biggest regrets first time attendees make is not getting hospitality access. What many don’t realize without first attending the Kentucky Derby, is that race days are long days. With 12 races on Kentucky Oaks day and 13 races on Kentucky Derby day, you will truly spend the entire day inside Churchill Downs.
You’re going to want to take some time to escape from the Kentucky elements and unwind with your group. Hospitality offers just that, an escape, and it bundles together anything and everything you might want at the track eliminating the need for you to make expensive food and drink purchases throughout the day.
With Orange Grandstand Packages, you’ll receive a VIP ticket granting you access to the Affirmed Lounge hospitality area, located just inside the Kentucky Derby Museum and down the stairs from your seating location in the Grandstand.
Here, you’ll be able to meet celebrity jockeys, enjoy complimentary beer, wine, soft drinks, and gourmet food buffets, and listen to live entertainment. There will also be simulcast TV coverage of the festivities taking place around the track inside the Affirmed Lounge so even though you’ve stepped inside, you won’t miss a beat of the action. Additionally, there are private wagering stations located within the hospitality venue eliminating your need to fight the crowds at the tellers located inside the Grandstand lobby area.
On-site trip directors from Derby Experiences will also be present throughout your trip to assist you in any way, and you’ll receive a VIP Fast Access Pass granting you a quicker entrance to Churchill Downs on race days through Gate 10.
If you’re looking for Taste of Derby™ Party access with your package and no hospitality, check out Taste of Derby™ Party Package>>
Orange Grandstand Taste of Derby™ Party Package is for Me!
The Orange Grandstand Taste of Derby™ Party Package truly bundles everything you could ever want at the Kentucky Derby together into one package. You can even opt to include transportation to all official Kentucky Derby events and luxurious accommodations in Louisville into your package!
Get more information on how you can attend the 2015 Kentucky Derby with the Orange Grandstand Taste of Derby™ Party Package by calling 1-888-384-7088 or by visiting Derby Experiences website for more information.
It’s time to make your wildest Kentucky Derby dreams come true!
Join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #DerbyVIP and #KyDerby!
California Chrome’s glory shot was almost a month ago, but don’t think that means the Triple Crown controversy is over. California Chrome’s owners are enraged regarding the regulations in place, allowing horses to race in some of the Triple Crown Series and not in others.
While some horse racing experts and fans share these sentiments, others do not. And when you look at the full picture, it’s not hard to see why this is such a controversial topic in the sport.
Let’s Recap, Shall We?
For those of you that haven’t been keeping up or have just being reading up here and there, here’s what went down. California Chrome entered the very competitive field for the 2014 Kentucky Derby and came out on top! Jockey, Victor Espinoza, pushed him forward to close at the right moment, and Chrome sailed beautifully to the finish line ahead of the field.
On to the Preakness Stakes. California Chrome shipped great and training was looking fantastic. His times were looking spot on to what they needed to be and he was running well. On race day, California Chrome was loaded into the gate with some of the same horses in his field for the Kentucky Derby, but some of the horses were also left out to rest for the upcoming Belmont Stakes.
Since these horses didn’t win the Kentucky Derby, their trainers had no stakes in making sure they ran all three races. So why wouldn’t they rest them and enter them in the longer Belmont Stakes where they could win more purse money than the Preakness?
And what happened at the Preakness Stakes? California Chrome didn’t let his fans down. He worked like a machine and made the same run he made in the Kentucky Derby a few weeks prior, securing the victory of the first two races in the Triple Crown Series.
Fans and experts began to get excited. Could this be the wonder horse? Could this be the first horse to attain the Triple Crown title since 1978?
Belmont is where the problems started arising for California Chrome. Right of the bat there was the question of whether or not New York would lift the regulation and allow Chrome to run with nasal strips. Once approval was granted, training moved forward, but there was no denying California Chrome was going to be up against a field of stronger horses.
So, What Happened?
California Chrome broke from the gate in the Belmont Stakes in normal fashion – clean and on the outside. Espinoza timed him and held him back with the goal of not exerting himself too early in this long run. However, when the horses rounded the final bend coming in on the stretch, Espizona asked Chrome for more, but they other jockeys urged their mounts forward also. While Chrome tried to regain ground on the outside, he just wasn’t fast or strong enough, finishing in fourth and erasing all dreams of the Triple Crown.
The Outburst
This is where things got real. When the cameras were turned from the track and into the stands for the media to interview California Chrome’s owners, co-owner, Steve Coburn, had plenty to say. He vocalized his annoyance regarding trainers and owners decisions to rest their horses after their shot at the Triple Crown is lost.
In his opinion, he believes that the horses that run in the Kentucky Derby should be the only horses allowed to race in the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. Coburn stated that he thinks the Triple Crown series should be exclusive to the initial field of contenders.
Coburn considers it to be the “coward’s way out” for others to rest their horses when his is gunning it, competing in three long races in a short six week time span. In this case, the Belmont Stakes winner, Tonalist, didn’t compete in either the Preakness or the Derby. But on the other hand, California Chrome came in fourth place – it’s not as if he was right behind Tonalist.
Is Coburn Right?
All frustrations and emotionalism aside, Coburn does have a point. It has been 20 years since the United States has had a Triple Crown champion and it is because of the strategy behind resting your horse once he loses the Kentucky Derby. Additionally, on the Triple Crown trophy, there are three points on the trophy representing the three races, and the horses that race in these three are technically “nominated for the Triple Crown.” Does that make the late racers “cheaters”?
And on that note, once the Kentucky Derby winner loses, fans are not as interested in the remaining Triple Crown races because the winning contender no longer stands a shot at the trophy. What kind of toll does this take on the sport?
But by the same token, half the thrill of the Triple Crown Series is knowing the honor is not easily attainable. The thrill is in getting your hopes up to see a horse surpass all odds and come out on top not once, not twice, but three times in a row.
If the Triple Crown was an honor that was awarded out left and right, maybe once within each decade, would the honor lose some of its magnitude?
What do you think regarding this controversy and Coburn’s statements? Do you think it would be beneficial for the Triple Crown Series to only allow the field of horses that compete in the Kentucky Derby to compete in the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
See the First Leg of the Triple Crown LIVE!
Fans thought they would see history made in 2014, but it just wasn’t the year for a new Triple Crown Champion. But who says 2015 won’t be the year! Secure your spot to watch the running of the 141st Kentucky Derby LIVE from Churchill Downs!
With Official Ticket Packages including exclusive in-track hospitality access complete with open or cash bars and gourmet lunch buffets, celebrity meet-and-greets, jockey meet-and-greets, luxurious accommodations, and transportation, there is no better way to experience the Kentucky Derby!
Get more information today on how you can start your 2015 Derby experience by calling 1-888-834-7088 to speak to a representative or visit Derby Experiences website for more information.
Join the conversation on social media by using the hashtags #DerbyVIP and #KyDerby!
It’s no surprise the Kentucky Derby falls on your bucket list (it sits on many), and congratulations on taking the initiative to cross it off this year! But what if you could achieve your dream of attending the Kentucky Derby and having exclusive access, all the while doing something to make a difference in the lives of others?
With Taste of Derby™ Party Packages, you’ll receive VIP access at the 141st Kentucky Derby and have the time of your life with exclusive benefits and amenities that will leave your friends and family who chose not to attend completely jealous. You’ll also receive an invite to the 5th annual Taste of Derby™ celebration to end hunger.
Read on to see your view from the stands, learn about the VIP access you’ll receive at the Taste of Derby™ party, and to see how you can make a difference by attending!
Your View of the Kentucky Derby
With a Taste of Derby™ Party Package, you’ll find yourself watching the races from the first floor of the Clubhouse in Section 111. Here, you’ll find yourself with some of the most coveted views of the track. You’ll be able to see the horses up close as they round the first bend and take off into the straight, and you’ll see them right after they cross the finish line!
And when the racing isn’t in your direct line of sight, you’ll have the world’s largest HD video board to assist you. Section 111 offers seating with fold-back chairs in an uncovered area, but should you wish to escape the Kentucky elements for a while, you can mosey into the first floor of the Clubhouse.
This is where you’ll find the food court with an array of options to select from, drink vendors and wagering stations.
The Taste of Derby™ Party
The Taste of Derby™ will actually kick-start your entire Derby experience! Held on Thurs. night, the evening before the Kentucky Oaks, you’ll be invited to taste some exquisite dishes. Masterful Chefs will gather in one place to create dishes from popular horse racing destinations across the country.
This night is the perfect combination of cuisine, racing and style.
While you’re sampling the delicacies and enjoying the open bar, you’ll mingle with Hollywood and horseracing celebrities and enjoy live music!
And to make your VIP status even more official, you’ll arrive and walk the Red Carpet, just like the A-list celebrities in attendance!
The Taste of Derby™ truly is a unique Kentucky Derby week celebration, and what makes it better is that partial proceeds contribute to helping fight hunger in the United States. So your Kentucky Derby experience will also affect those back in your neighborhoods.
Additional Amenities
As for the other facets of your ticket package, you’ll receive a VIP Fast Access Pass allowing you a quicker, more secure entrance to Churchill Downs on race days through Gate 10. You’ll also receive an official Derby Experiences gift bag brimming with official merchandise and souvenirs. On-site trip directors will also be on hand throughout your trip to answer any questions you might have and to address any concerns.
Not to mention, you can opt in for luxurious accommodations in the Louisville area and transportation to and from the track each day to be included in your package! This eliminates the trip planning hassle from your hands and allows you to sit back and enjoy the Kentucky Derby!
I Want the Taste of Derby™ Party Package!
Of course you do! There’s nothing better than making one of your dreams come true and assisting a fantastic cause at the same time!
Get more information on how you can attend the 2015 Kentucky Derby Taste of Derby™ Party with an Official Derby Experiences Party Package today! Call 1-888-384-7088 to speak to a representative or visit Derby Experiences website for more information.
Join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #DerbyVIP and #KyDerby!
The Kentucky Derby is an American pastime and a sporting event that falls on many peoples' bucket lists. What a lot of people do not know, unless they’ve attended the Kentucky Derby in the past, is official Kentucky Derby parties are just as important as the racing when it comes to the complete Derby experience.
This means it’s important to make sure your ticket will get you into some of these big name events!
So where are you going to find the golden ticket that grants access to both days of racing (Kentucky Oaks & Derby) and official parties? Derby Experiences!
And what’s the most highly sought after party at the Kentucky Derby? The Winner’s Party!
Take a look at the seating location and view of Churchill Downs you’d receive on race days and what you’d receive with an official invite to the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Party!
The View of Churchill Downs
With an Official Winner’s Party Package, your ticket will grant you access to the first floor of the Clubhouse in Section 111 on both the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby days. Section 111 offers unbeatable views of the first turn and the finish line, and when the horses are out of your direct line of sight, you’ll have the viewing assistance of the world’s largest HD video board!
Section 111 is a fold-back chair, uncovered seating area, but should you need to find an escape from the Kentucky elements, you can wander inside the main area of the Clubhouse as it is covered and air-conditioned. Within the Clubhouse, you’ll also find the food court with an array of options to select from, drink vendors and wagering stations.
The Winner’s Party
After you watch the running of the Kentucky Derby LIVE from Section 111, you’ll make your way to the Kentucky Derby Museum for the 2015 Winner’s Party, starting immediately after the Kentucky Derby! You’ll be invited to enjoy an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a night of dancing to celebrate the winning horse, jockey, owners, and trainers!
Not to mention, the Governor of Kentucky, well-known horsemen, community leaders, media, and other distinguished guests will be in attendance celebrating the winner of the 141st Kentucky Derby!
Additional Inclusions
Along with your tickets to the Kentucky Oaks, the Kentucky Derby and the Winner’s Party, you’ll also receive additional amenities to help make your experience one-of-a-kind and unforgettable!
On-site trip directors will be available throughout the weekend to assist you in any way and answer any questions you might have. You’ll also receive a VIP Fast Access Pass allowing you a quicker, more secure entrance through Gate 10 (right outside Section 111) into Churchill Downs on race days. Additionally, you’ll receive an official Derby Experiences gift bag brimming with Kentucky Derby souvenirs and merchandise.
You can even opt to include luxurious accommodations in the Louisville area and transportation to and from the track on race days in your party package. This eliminates all additional trip planning aspects for you and allows you to really focus on enjoying your Kentucky Derby weekend.
Take Me to the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Party!
Keep in mind the Winner’s Party is the most highly sought out Kentucky Derby party and spots will be secured quickly, so don’t wait!
Get more information on how you can attend the 2015 Kentucky Derby Winner’s Party with an Official Derby Experiences Party Package today! Call 1-888-384-7088 to speak to a representative or visit Derby Experiences website for more information.
Join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #DerbyVIP and #KyDerby!
High status, extravagant amenities, gourmet fare and premium open bars to indulge in, luxurious accommodations, coveted access, impressive views – does that all sound like the Kentucky Derby experience you want to be a part of? Well, ladies and gentlemen, say hello to Millionaires Row!
For starters, who wouldn’t want to be a millionaire? We all know the stereotypes attached to that word and who wouldn’t want a taste of that lavish lifestyle, even just for a weekend?
Well, with an Official Kentucky Derby Ticket Package to Millionaires Row, that life of luxury will be at your finger tips, all while you watch one of the biggest horse races ever, the first race of the Triple Crown Series!
What does the extravagant Millionaires Row lifestyle at the Kentucky Derby look like? What kind of view of the track will you receive from this exclusive hospitality area? Take a look!
The View from Millionaires Row
If you’re looking for a crazy impressive view paired with an ultra high-end experience, you’ve come to the right place! Millionaires Row is located on the fourth floor above the Clubhouse. (If you’ve ever been inside the Clubhouse and seen the escalators that seem as if to disappear into the heavens covered by high security, then we’re sure you could gander a guess as to what is at the top of those escalators.)
With impeccable views of the first turn, final stretch and the finish line, Millionaires Row is a fantastic place to view the horse races. You might not be directly on the track as you are several floors up, but it’s almost better that way! Even though the world’s largest HD video screen is right in front of you, you’ll be able to watch majority of the race without its help and you’ll have an overhead view of the fighting finish allowing you a better view of the horses crossing.
Another plus of Millionaires Row is that your viewing platform is right outside your full service in-track hospitality area!
The Hospitality
The hospitality venue within Millionaires Row is just as high-class as you would imagine. Complimentary soft drinks, water and tea are available throughout the day, and you’ll also receive access to a cash basis bar with premium beverage options. Additionally, gourmet food buffets are available throughout the afternoon so you and your guests can eat lunch and snack as you please.
Worried about having to fight the crowds down in the Clubhouse to place your wagers? Don’t fret, Millionaires Row offers its own private wagering stations allowing you to place you bets on the races you select whenever you choose throughout the day.
There are also simulcast TVs offering coverage of the in-track festivities taking place between the races and coverage of each race, so even if you’re not out on the viewing balcony, you can see everything taking place outside.
What other kinds of coveted amenities are included in an Official Kentucky Derby Millionaires Row Ticket Packages?
Well, you’ll have on-site trip advisors assisting you in Louisville and at Churchill Downs should you have any questions. You’ll also receive an Official Derby Experiences Gift Bag brimming with Kentucky Derby products and merchandise. You’ll also receive a VIP Fast Access Pass allowing you a quicker more secure entrance to the track on race days.
With Official Ticket Packages, you can even opt in for luxurious accommodations in Louisville to be included in your package eliminating all planning for you!
I want to be a Millionaire…
Of course you do! Get more information today on how you can become a millionaire in Millionaires Row for the 141st Kentucky Derby today by calling 1-888-384-7088 to speak to a representative or visit Derby Experiences website.
It’s time to plan the Kentucky Derby experience you’ve always wanted to have, but didn’t know how! Let us get you in Millionaires Row!
Be sure to join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #DerbyVIP and #KyDerby!
The Kentucky Derby draws in a huge crowd – at the 140th running 164,906 people attended, the second largest in history! And with Churchill Downs being an older facility and historic landmark, the layout is not exactly designed to hold crowds of this capacity.
Once inside the hallways of the Clubhouse and Grandstand, you and your group have to navigate cramped quarters until you reach your destination within: Derby Experiences hospitality areas, the food court or your seat. But there is a solution to dealing with these large crowds.
The secret is getting access to the hospitality and viewing areas of the Jockey Club Suites. You know those escalators in the Clubhouse that you can’t help but wonder where they go? Oh yes, they lead to the secret, most exclusive area of Churchill Downs.
What’s within the Jockey Club Suites? Well, the Derby Room for starters! Take a look at what makes this dual hospitality and seat location so unique and one of the most desired vantage points to watch the Kentucky Derby!
The View from the Derby Room
The Derby Room offers some of the most impressive views of the track! Because of its location on the fourth floor of the Jockey Club Suites, you’d have a bird’s eye view of the track, being able to see the each bend, parts of the backstretch, the final straight, and the finish line. Essentially, none of the race is not within view, but just in case, the world’s largest HD video board is right in front of you to ensure you see the race in its entirety.
And did I mention you’d be watching the races on the Derby Room’s private balcony directly attached to the hospitality?
Picture this: You’re inside the Derby Room throughout the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby race days enjoying the premium open bar and complimentary gourmet food buffets, and then you hear the trumpet sound announcing the next race.
So you mosey your way out along the patio and watch the races LIVE! That’s right! No shifting through crowds, no trying to find your seat, no hassles – it’s that simple and it’s that convenient.
The Hospitality
Within the Derby Room hospitality area, you’ll not only have access to a premium open bar and complimentary gourmet fare, but you’ll also have access to private wagering stations. There is also full simulcast TV coverage of the festivities taking place in Churchill Downs in between races ensuring you don’t miss a beat of what’s taking place on the ground below you.
You’ll also receive a VIP Fast Access Pass granting you a quicker and more secure entrance to Churchill Downs on Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby days, and on-site trip directors to answer any questions you might have before, during or after Kentucky Derby weekend.
Official Kentucky Derby gift bags brimming with Derby souvenirs are also included with Derby Room access.
How do YOU get in the Derby Room?
With Official Kentucky Derby Ticket Packages from Derby Experiences! With Derby Experiences Official Partnership with Churchill Downs, you’ll receive the best and most exclusive access within the Derby Room with tickets to both the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby.
With all the inclusions offered above included at one price, planning a trip to the Kentucky Derby has never been so simple.
Additionally, Official Derby Room Ticket Packages also include optional transportation to and from the track each day, and luxurious accommodations in Louisville!
So what are you waiting for? Find out how you can become a Kentucky Derby VIP today and watch the Oaks and Derby LIVE from the Derby Room! Call 1-888-384-7088 or visit Derby Experiences website for more information.
And be sure to join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #DerbyVIP and #KyDerby!
On Sat., June 7, over 20.6 million viewers tuned in to see if California Chrome would make history securing the 146th Belmont Stakes. There’s no denying that fans of California Chrome were awaiting the storybook ending to unfold – the viewership of the race was the second highest in the Belmont’s history, and is the most-watched weekend sporting event since the Sochi Winter Olympics!
California Chrome held the best odds on race day despite the high level of competition that awaited him at the track. However, luck was not with Chrome as he raced, finishing fourth behind Tonalist, Commissioner and Medal Count.
So what happened? Did Chrome have a bad break from the gate? Could he not clear the field? Was it the distance? Read on for the full race recap!
“And They’re Off!”
California Chrome broke strong from the gate and maintained his position on the pole for a good portion of the race. Jockey Victor Espinoza timed Chrome well with the goal of not exerting him to early in, with the looming distance of 1 ½ miles ahead of them.
Commissioner took the lead early and began to set the pace, followed by General a Rod and Tonalist on the outside.
If you read Derby Experiences Belmont Stakes Preview before the race, you were prepared for Commissioner and Tonalist to take an early lead.
Commissioner was built for stamina and has proven he could run all day – a definite problem for Chrome. Tonalist, sired by Tapit (the most sought-out sire) had been winning Grade Stakes races left and right! His bloodlines proved before the race that he could handle this distance.
And that’s what this race came down to – stamina! As Commissioner held his lead all the way to the backstretch, jockey Joel Rosario held Tonalist back in fourth place looking for his break. As Medal Count and Wicked Strong were urged forward, space on the rail became too tight and Espinoza led California Chrome to the outside where he found Tonalist.
With several furlongs to go, Rosario urged Tonalist to close and the horse surged forward with an impressive closing speed, proving his endurance to those watching. Commissioner fought to keep his lead, but could not open his gate to compete with the burst of speed shown by the Tapit colt.
Espinoza asked for more coming into the final furlongs, but the distance proved to be too much for Chrome as he fell to fourth.
Tonalist crossed the finish line a head before Commissioner becoming the 2014 Belmont Stakes Champion! The Triple Crown proved to be elusive once again.
The Final Results.
The Controversy.
After the race, Steve Coburn, co-owner of California Chrome, shared some harsh words when it came to the Triple Crown series and the upset. He shared his opinion that it is unfair for trainers and owners to rest their horses during the Preakness Stakes and the Kentucky Derby and then run them in the Belmont Stakes.
Coburn believes that the horses that enter the Derby should be the only horses allowed to compete in the whole series and they should run each of the three races. He made the statement that it was the “coward’s way out” to rest horses when Chrome, in the running for the Triple Crown, competed in each race in a six week time span.
While some horse racing fans and trainers agree with Coburn, many others stated that they believe that any qualified horse should compete in any of the Triple Crown series races. It’s believed that this is what makes the Triple Crown so special when it is attained – that this horse has surpassed all odds and all fatigue to prove that it’s the best of the best. After all, the elusiveness of the Triple Crown is what makes it so desirable!
What do you think? Do you agree with Coburn? What do you think about his statements? What do you think about the Tonalist upset? Share your opinion with us in the comments below.
Be a Part of the 2015 Triple Crown Series!
Who knows?! Next year could be THE year! The year that we see a Triple Crown winner! Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of the 2015 Triple Crown series by watching the first leg, the Kentucky Derby, LIVE from Churchill Downs!
With Derby Experiences Official Partnership with Churchill Downs, you’ll receive exclusive access to a variety of seating areas and amenities that you can’t receive access to any other way.
Get an invite to a VIP hospitality area within the track where you’ll find open or cash bars, complimentary gourmet fare, private wagering stations, celebrity meet-and-greets and much more! Paired with tickets to seats with some of the very best views of the track, there is no better way to experience the Kentucky Derby!
Get more information on Official Ticket Packages to the 2015 Kentucky Derby by calling 1-888-384-7088 to speak to a representative or visit Derby Experiences website for more information. Start your Derby experience today!
Join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #DerbyVIP and #KyDerby!
Booking tickets for the Kentucky Derby is no simple feat. With so many options on the secondary market, it become a process of trying to figure out if you’re getting a good deal, if the source is credible, and whether or not the seats are decent. After all, when you’re purchasing tickets to an event you’re about to check off your bucket list, you don’t want to be stuck in the nose bleeds or worse, have your tickets not be valid.
It’s important to do your research and to ask the right questions. Now, before you heed this advice and click away to do your research, freeze! The hard part is already done.
We’ve aggregated the three biggest mistakes people make when booking Kentucky Derby tickets. This way, you can learn from these mistakes and ensure that you’re Derby experience will be perfect and unforgettable.
1. Booking through the Secondary Market
Booking Kentucky Derby tickets through the secondary market is numero uno. The Kentucky Derby is a high profile event and everyone wants to get their hands on tickets. Most companies trying to sell tickets in the secondary market don’t actually have their tickets yet. They post options and wait for you to purchase at an incredibly high price. Then, they turn around and try and find tickets to match your criteria.
The problem with this process? You don’t actually have the tickets in your hand at the time of purchase. They aren’t secure. And you probably paid a pretty hefty mark up so that this company can make a profit off of what they sold you. Definitely not an ideal situation.
2. Purchasing a “Ticket”
That’s right, purchasing a “ticket” is number two on our list! Why? Because the alternative is so much better: ticket packages.
Think about it. With a ticket, you’re buying a high price ticket (hopefully not in the nose bleeds), entering Churchill Downs and forking out a pretty penny on drinks, snacks, souvenirs and anything else you fancy on Derby day. And don’t forget to factor in the costs for parking on Derby day, renting a car and securing accommodations if you’re from out of town.
However, with a ticket package, all these costs are included into one lower price! That’s right – all those things! With ticket packages, you’ll receive a ticket to both race days (the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby) with exclusive hospitality access and fantastic seats. Not to mention, within the hospitality area, you’ll be invited to enjoy complimentary food, open or cash bars, and meet celebrities!
Luxurious accommodations and transportation can also be included in ticket packages so that you’re left with essentially no planning to do! Pretty sweet, eh?
3. Waiting ‘til the Last Minute
This is one of the biggest blunders you can make when it comes to booking your Kentucky Derby experience. To put into perspective, there were 164,906 people in attendance! That’s how many people you’ll be competing with to get tickets.
When you wait until the last minute, you eliminate a lot of the best seating areas because those always fill first. Prices also typically rise closer to the event so you wind up paying more. Additionally, hotels are booked up so far in advance that you might not even end up staying remotely near Louisville!
Booking early is key.
How to Correctly Purchase Kentucky Derby Tickets
Woo! That was a lot to take in, right? Well, before you start worrying about how you’re actually going to find ticket packages from a secure source and about how you’re going to be able to afford a trip like this right now, relax!
We’ve got that research for you here too! Take a look at how you should correctly plan your 2015 Kentucky Derby experience:
First, you’re going to visit your one stop shop for the Kentucky Derby: Derby Experiences!
Derby Experiences is Official Partners with Churchill Downs, so its tickets come direct from the source. So instead of you chancing it in the secondary market, you’ll have 100 percent security that your tickets are valid and will be in your hand well before Kentucky Derby day.
Also, Derby Experiences offers Official Ticket Packages! So you’ll receive the benefits of packages that were mentioned prior instead of having to fork out cash on the spot. Additionally, Derby Experiences offers a plethora of other experiences that you could tack onto your ticket package such a tours, parties and other concierge services! Everything that you could possibly want to be a part of to take your Derby experience to the next level can be found with one company.
For pictures of the 2014 Kentucky Derby experience, view our Facebook Album>>
As for the price of Official Ticket Packages, Derby Experiences gets its. With easy payment terms, you can break up the cost of paying for your ticket package over a series of payments so you don’t have to pay it all up front.
There really is no simpler way to experience the Kentucky Derby!
Take Me to the Kentucky Derby!
Now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to take action! Call 1-888-384-7088 to speak to a representative or visit Derby Experiences website to view the 2015 Official Ticket Packages that are currently on sale. It’s time to start your Kentucky Derby experience!
Be sure to join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #KyDerby141 and #DerbyVIP!
Everyone knows the Kentucky Derby draws in a crowd of high-class, beautifully dressed horse racing fans. From the jackets and bowties to the dresses and heels, the Derby holds an iconic look and these styles are exactly what you'll be seeing in person on race day. What you might not know, however, is that this "dress code" is only required in particular sections of Churchill Downs, one of which is the Clubhouse.
You see, the Clubhouse is home to the VIPs. While the Grandstand is home to classy race goers in similar dress, the Clubhouse is home to the elites, where dress code is required and your name is known.
If you're not catching our drift, let us break it down for you: if you consider yourself to be one of the high-status elites entering Churchill Downs on Derby day, you're going to want to make sure you place yourself with Clubhouse seats and exclusive hospitality access within!
And luckily for you, Derby Experiences Official Ticket Packages can help you do just that! Because of our Official Partnership with Churchill Downs, your tickets will come direct from the source with 100 percent security, you'll receive exclusive hospitality access and a plethora of coveted amenities such as open or cash bars, complimentary food buffets, celebrity meet-and-greets, party invites, and much more!
All that spark your interest? Then take a look at the view, inclusions and hospitality venues paired with Clubhouse packages below!
The View from the Clubhouse
The Clubhouse offers a wide array of seating options within Churchill Downs. It begins in the centermost part of the track and stretches all the way along the first turn. Seating stretches from right at the rail on the ground level, all the way up to the third floor. Because of the amount of seating availability, there are a variety of vantage points paired with different ticket packages.
For example, you could select seats right along the rail so close to the track you can hear the horses breathing, the pounding of their hooves and the hollering of the jockeys as they move their horses along the first bend and then back around to pass the finish line.
And if you're looking for more of a bird's eye view of the straight and first turn, you can select 200 or 300 seating options. Here you'll find yourself with prime views of the straight and first turn, the largest HD video board in the world will literally be right in front of you, and you will be in an excellent position to see the photo finish!
No matter which Official Clubhouse Ticket Package you select, you're guaranteed to have the time of your life at the 141st running of the Kentucky Derby this year! There truly is nothing comparable to watching the Kentucky Derby LIVE from inside the Clubhouse!
The Hospitality
Because of the vast area of track that the Clubhouse covers, there are two different hospitality venues paired with Clubhouse seats, decided largely due to location. Take a look at the exclusive hospitality options:
Citation Lounge
Commonly paired with Yellow, Pink, Brown and Purple Clubhouse ticket packages, Citation Lounge is a classic hospitality venue located right behind Section 111, and designed by Derby Experiences. This venue is climate-controlled so regardless of the weather outside, you and your group will be comfortable and have an easy escape from the Kentucky elements.
Once inside Citation Lounge, you'll find complimentary gourmet fare, a cash-basis bar, self-service wagering stations and simulcast TV coverage so even though you're not facing the track, you won't miss a beat of what's taking place.
Additionally, celebrity jockeys will be making appearances throughout Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby days. In 2014, legends Pat Day and Chris McCarron visited Citation Lounge to visit with guests.
Along with access to Citation Lounge, you'll also receive VIP Fast Access Passes for a quicker, more secure entrance to the track through Gate 10, and you can opt in for luxurious accommodations in Louisville and transportation on race days to be included in your package.
How's that for VIP treatment?
Secretariat Lounge
Located in the heart of the Clubhouse, Secretariat Lounge has a lot to offer VIPs. Entering Secretariat Lounge is like entering a new world - a world of elites! You'll enter through a private entrance right off the food court on the second floor, just above Gate 17.
The luxurious Secretariat Lounge is a climate-controlled oasis within the Cluhouse. you'll find complimentary food buffets, a premium open bar, self-service wagering kiosks, live entertainment (Elise Testone of American Idol performed in 2014), and simulcast TV coverage of the activities down on the track.
Plus, celebrities and celebrity jockeys will be floating about Secretariat Lounge! Last year, model and actress from Django Unchained, Nichole Galicia, and the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders made appearances, and so did legendary jockeys, Pat Day and Chris McCarron!
Ground transportation on race days and accommodations in Louisville can also be included to complete this ticket package.
I want to be in the Clubhouse!
All of us here at Derby Experiences fully support this decision! Get more information today on 2015 Kentucky Derby Clubhouse ticket packages! Call 1-888-384-7088 to speak with a representative or visit Derby Experiences website for more information.
We can't wait for you to join us at Churchill Downs!