A double header of live harness racing; a hat revue with six categories including the “Triple Crown” winning hat; and a Champagne Brunch are all part of the biggest Kentucky Derby party north of Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May at the Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono.
Doors open Saturday, May 4 at 10:00 a.m. Post for the first of the double-header of live harness racing card is 11:00 am. Pacer’s Clubhouse will host a Champagne Brunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. featuring delectable Southern delicacies and Brunch favourites, by reservation only. Call 1-888-WIN-IN-PA. At 5:00 p.m., a top shelf all-you-can-eat dinner buffet will be featured, also by reservation only, and the dinner seating is almost sold out.
Ladies can proudly wear their elaborately decorated Kentucky Derby hats for the Run for the Roses Hat Revue. All hats must be registered between 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the lobby, and the Revue takes place promptly at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Winner’s Circle with cash prizes! Six categories will be judged, including “The Hottest Trotter” for the best horse-themed; “Most Fascinating Fascinator”; “Exquisite Elegance” for the most elegant; “Prettiest Pocono Pacer” for the most colourful; “Judge’s Choice”; and the top prize, “Triple Crown Winner”.
A photo booth will be open at 3:00 p.m. in the lobby for fans to capture fun moments of the day, with a $3 minimum donation to the Standardbred Retirement Foundation. For a last-minute hat, fascinator, or accessories, stop by the Spa Sapphire Kentucky Derby Fashions in the racing lobby, open at 2:00 p.m.
The Trackside Concessions, bars, and the Party Tent open at 3:00 p.m., and of course, Mint Juleps will be available all day in the official Kentucky Derby 145 souvenir glasses!
Following Kentucky Derby 145, fans can stay and enjoy exciting live harness racing under the stars. A stellar card is planned, including the first of the Great Northeast Open Series, the Van Rose Memorial Pace for four-year-olds and up.
As always, parking and admission is free at the racetrack. The Downs will open for advance Derby wagering and coverage of Kentucky Oaks Day on Friday, May 3 starting at 11:00 a.m.
(Pocono)