142nd Running of the Kentucky Derby and Special Presentation by McCarron Highlight Tauck’s Exclusive Five-Day Event in Kentucky’s Bluegrass Country
Two-time Kentucky Derby winner Chris McCarron will offer insights on his life as a professional jockey and share stories from his 40-year career in thoroughbred racing when he meets with Tauck guests during the company’s “Run for the Roses: the Kentucky Derby” event this May. McCarron’s presentation during Tauck’s five-day event is just one of many exclusive experiences guests will enjoy as they explore the culture, history and traditions of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, all culminating in a special VIP experience at Churchill Downs for the 142nd running of the famed Kentucky Derby.
During a 28-year career as a jockey, McCarron won virtually every major race in North America, with six victories in Triple Crown races including wins at the Kentucky Derby in both 1987 and 1994. McCarron also scored nine Breeders’ Cup victories, and in 1974 and 1975 he became the first jockey to win more than 1,000 races over a two-year span. Since retiring from competition, McCarron has continued his involvement in thoroughbred racing by serving as general manager of Santa Anita Park in California, working in the role of consultant (and actor) for the feature film Seabiscuit, and serving as a color analyst for major races on ABC, NBC, ESPN and other broadcast outlets.
The presentation by McCarron occurs on day two of Tauck’s Kentucky Derby event, which runs from May 4 – 8 and features a choice of two sightseeing programs. A “Bluegrass Country” option includes a tour of Ashland, the home of the 19th-century Kentucky statesman Henry Clay, and a visit to the Kentucky Horse Park & International Museum of the Horse. Alternatively, guests may choose a “Thoroughbred World” option that instead includes a day at Churchill Downs for the 142nd running of the Kentucky Oaks, the prestigious race for three-year-old fillies held the day before the Kentucky Derby.
Both groups will visit a local horse farm, learn about the region’s bourbon-making traditions during a private tour and tasting at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, and enjoy a barbeque lunch in the distillery’s private clubhouse. At the conclusion of each day’s sightseeing, all guests will gather for special receptions and dinners, including a cocktail party and dinner at the Keeneland race course, a National Historic Landmark dedicated to thoroughbred racing, on the evening when McCarron will speak.
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE AT THE 142ND KENTUCKY DERBY
The true highlight of Tauck’s “Run for the Roses” event will be the 142nd running of the prestigious Kentucky Derby, America’s most renowned thoroughbred competition and popularly known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” For Derby Day, Tauck guests will enjoy special seating in Tauck’s reserved VIP start gate unit. Offering complimentary regional cuisine and all-day open bar, this enclosed, air-conditioned unit provides Tauck guests with their own dedicated pari-mutuel teller and fantastic views of the racetrack.
Guests on Bluegrass Country can instead opt for covered open-air seating in a grandstand-style setting overlooking Churchill Downs’ first turn. Also providing great views of the race and a selection of complimentary, casual food choices throughout the day, the first-turn seating features access to the section’s betting windows and amenities.
Tauck’s “Run for the Roses: The Kentucky Derby” event is priced from £5,150. Prices are per person, double occupancy, plus airfare, and include four nights accommodations at the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa in Lexington, all daily sightseeing and other activities, all entertainment, meals and gratuities, airport transfers and more.
For more information about the event, click here.
