On the occasion of the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, attendees gathered at Churchill Downs to celebrate the rich history and tradition of the event. The first race, held in 1875, saw a stark contrast to the modern-day spectacle that now draws over 157,000 spectators from around the globe.
Originally a modest affair with an admission fee as low as $1, the Derby has evolved into a lavish event where grandstand tickets can cost upwards of $500. Despite the changes over the years, the essence of the Derby remains the same - a place for people to see and be seen, to revel in the festivities and escape from everyday worries.
This year's Derby featured notable personalities such as Wynonna Judd, Martha Stewart, Travis Kelce, Jimmy Fallon, and Kid Rock. Attendees marveled at the newly renovated paddock, a horseshoe-shaped space at the base of the iconic Twin Spires.
Longtime Derby enthusiasts, Mary and Skip Keopnick, embraced the changes and commemorated the 150th anniversary with elaborate outfits and accessories. Skip, who attended his first Derby in 1977, showcased a unique spinning helmet adorned with plastic horses, symbolizing the spirit of the event's milestone year.
Among the attendees was Charlotte Amsden, who marked her 70th birthday at the Derby, fulfilling a lifelong dream of witnessing the renowned race. She was accompanied by three generations of her family, including her great-granddaughter, who, at just 4 months old, required her own ticket to enter the racetrack.
Reflecting on the significance of the 150th Derby, Amsden expressed hope that her great-granddaughter might return in 50 years to witness the 200th edition of the event. The sense of tradition and anticipation for the future permeated the atmosphere at Churchill Downs, prompting attendees to ponder what the Derby might look like in the decades to come.
