Kentucky Derby
Experience the sport of kings at one of thoroughbred racing's most prestigious Triple Crown events – The Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is a 1 ¼ -mile stakes race for three-year-old thoroughbred horses at Churchill downs in Louisville, Kentucky, held the first Saturday in May, capping the two-week-long Kentucky Derby Festival. The jewel of the elusive Triple Crown - which includes the Belmont Stakes and the Preakness - the Kentucky Derby will be held May 6, 2006.
For over 125 years, “Run for the Roses” has been everyone's race - from the dapper men and beautiful women, all in hats and sipping frosty mint juleps, to the laid-back infield crowd who picnic on fried chicken and toss Frisbees. They're all there to witness the world's premier horse-racing event. “Riders up" booms the paddock judge. Trainers give a leg up to the riders and send them out onto the world's most famous track as the University of Louisville band strikes up "My Old Kentucky Home." Two minutes later, a garland of red roses is awarded to the Kentucky Derby winner. [ top ]
Kentucky Derby History at Churchill Downs
Horse racing is an integral part of Kentucky’s rich history. Organized horse racing in the State of Kentucky dates back to the late 1700s when several race courses were built in and around Louisville. On May 17, 1875, Churchill Downs began its legacy as home of the Kentucky Derby. Churchill Downs is located three miles from Executive West Hotel. Visit www.churchilldowns.com. [ top ]
Executive West Hotel Kentucky Derby Package
Located just a few miles from the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, the Executive West Hotel – Louisville offers world-class accommodations and an exciting Kentucky Derby Package, featuring spacious, well-appointed guestrooms and suites for three nights. This premier Louisville hotel features a pool, fitness facility, restaurant, Derby shuttle service, and meeting rooms for Derby parties and events. [ top ]
Executive West Kentucky Derby Package includes:
- Guest Room for 3 Nights (Thursday, Friday and Saturday – Derby Day
- Kentucky Derby Hat in Your Room
- Package Price: $1450 (All 3 Nights and Tax)
- Additional Nights (Pre and Post are $150 per Night)
- Suite Package: $1650 - $3250 (3 Nights)
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Experience what it feels like to ride a million-dollar thoroughbred thundering toward the finish line at the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs features a high-definition film entitled "The Greatest Race,” displayed on a 360-degree screen that puts you in the center of Kentucky Derby action. Interactive exhibits include a "Place Your Bets" exhibit and the "Warner L. Jones, Jr. Time Machine" with select footage of Derbys since 1918. Take a guided walking tour of Churchill Downs that includes the actual Finish Line and grave sites of three famous Kentucky Derby winners. [ top ]
Louisville's Derby Festival 2006
The 2006 Louisville Derby Festival blasts off on April 22 with the Opening Ceremonies - Thunder Over Louisville, the nation's largest annual fireworks extravaganza. The 2-week community festival is one of the premiere entertainment events in the world. For sports fans there is basketball, volleyball, rowing, golf, a half and full marathon. For music lovers the outdoor concerts inspire foot-stomping good times around Louisville. With two-thirds of the Festival events free, families can enjoy numerous kid’s activities. Other highlights include the elegant Derby Ball, hot-air balloon events and live bed racing. The Great Steamboat Race pits historic paddle-wheelers on the mighty Ohio. [ top ]
Executive West Hotel
830 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY 40209
(502) 367-2251 | 1-800-626-2708 - reservations only
