You’d be hard put to find a sporting event more marinated in tradition than the Kentucky Derby. From the music to the Mint Juleps, it all still matters.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Louisville for the 138th Run for the Roses this Saturday May 5, the first thing that should raise a bunch of goose bumps is Stephen Foster’s bittersweet ballad, My Old Kentucky Home. Just try getting through that without becoming misty-eyed, especially the verse that goes: By’n by hard times comes a knocking at my door, Then my old Kentucky home, Good night! According to the Derby’s website, they started playing the song at Churchill Downs back in 1921, for the 47th running, and haven’t stopped since.
The Mint Julep has been a frosty fixture at the Kentucky Derby for almost a century now. Some 120,000 of the sweet, mint-sprigged concoctions are served up over the weekend. Early Times Mint Julep Ready-to-Serve Cocktail is the “official” Mint Julep of the Derby.
If you’d prefer to do a bit of mixology on your own, the recipe is on the Kentucky Derby Website.
It’s a good bet more than a few Juleps will be consumed on the infield of Churchill Downs. Each year some 80,000 folks pack the place to party. As this post was set to go to press General Admission tickets were still on sale. Party or watch the ponies. It’s your choice.
One part of the infield is set aside for families, and offers up a more genteel setting. That would be the grassy first turn. Bring along a picnic a make a day of it – just be sure to keep tabs on the kids.
In a world of vicarious, high-def pleasures the Kentucky Derby remains true to its silken colors – an authentic slice of Americana that you need to experience in the flesh.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: Velo Steve)
