THE HARBOR HILLS LADIES CHARITY HOSTS A KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY BY NIKKI HOFFMAN

The popularity of America’s most prestigious horse race, the Kentucky Derby, is filled with excitement and tradition. The event has become synonymous with Southern culture and Americana. It is held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. This year, May 6 will mark the 149th running of this celebrated event.Known as "the most exciting two minutes in sports," the event has a rich history. In 1872, Meriwether Lewis Clark, a prominent Louisville resident, was inspired by attending the Epsom Derby in England. Upon Clark's return to the States, he organized a group of local race fans and created the Louisville Jockey Club. The club raised funds for a racetrack in Louisville. The track opened on May 17, 1875, and the first Kentucky Derby was created. The winner was a three-year-old thoroughbred named Aristides.Millions of dollars are placed on bets for favorite contenders. In 1973, a stallion named Secretariat set a record-breaking time of 1:59:40. In one astonishing season, Secretariat won the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. He became the first horse in twenty-five years to win the Triple Crown.The Harbor Hills Ladies Charity will host an exciting fundraiser tomorrow. Live racing, raffles, and games highlight the afternoon. Flamboyant hats and wild ties will be on display. Take a photo with a horse and jockey on the lawn in front of the club! Mint juleps, tasty treats, and music add to the fun. Thanks to the caring ladies of the Charity for their year-round efforts to raise funds to benefit those in need.