Photo courtesy John DuvallBy Lisa Scott
Special to The PREVIEW
The setting at Keyah Grande Lodge is elegant, as are the party-goers. Last year’s Kentucky Derby Party in Pagosa Springs brought out the most gorgeous and creative outfits complemented with eye-catching hats on both the ladies and the gentlemen. It is the finest fare for one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.
This year’s Derby party will have more of the same: A festive afternoon with live music, a buffet luncheon and desserts, betting on the big race just like you were in Kentucky at the Derby and joining the 100,000-plus at the Louisville race track via a big-screen TV for the pre-race festivities, review of thoroughbreds, singing “My Old Kentucky Home” and, the cherished moment — “They’re off!” — as we watch the horses race around the Churchill Downs track.
The hat contest is a party favorite and prizes will be awarded to both men and women for style and creativity. The “Experiences Silent Auction” will feature many exciting trips and activities including cruises, exotic travel and local experiences like rafting and four-wheeling.
The party starts at 2 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m. on Derby Day, May 6. Everyone is welcome to attend. Tickets are $40 per person and include the buffet. There is a cash bar for those wanting a traditional Kentucky mint julep or their very own favorite refreshment. Tickets are available from any Rotarian or at Exit Realty, located on Put Hill.
The Kentucky Derby Party is a fundraiser of the Pagosa Springs Rotary Club. Proceeds from the party contribute significantly to the $20,000 in scholarships awarded each year by the Rotary Club to deserving high school graduates from Archuleta County. Other Rotary projects benefit as well: Feed The Children and the Dictionary Project for Pagosa Springs Elementary School third-graders are just two of Rotary’s many projects which are funded, in part, by the Derby party.
