The Murray State News Blogs

We’ve got only a week left until the Derby. But, it seems many people - news outlets, especially - are too caught on which celebs are deciding to pencil in May 2 on their to-do list. Way to go Paris Hilton for taking off precious time from humanitarian work in Africa to come to Kentucky. And, let’s not forget Kim Kardashian who is missing a Play Boy photo shot in order to spend some “down home” time in Louisville. Will her reality show cameras come with her? Of course we will treat them (and the other frivolous stars who know NOTHING about horse racing) with underserving, unwarranted hospitality. Okay, fine. Maybe I’m exaggerating a tad. They will receive unlimited bourbon, free Derby hats and (worst of all) instant gratification from all the culture-obsessed Kentuckians. I don’t care about them. Where has the focus of the Derby drifted? If I’m not correct, the Derby is SUPPOSED to be about one main event (with a few smaller ones in between) - a two-minute horse race with the best darn Thoroughbreds in existence.

Louisville should be one proud city and thank it’s lucky politicians for building Churchill Downs in the first place. What if the Derby originally ran in Lexington in which would make a heck of a lot more sense? Celebratory activities including Thunder of Louisville, the great Steam boat race and the Balloon Glow may have never existed.

Then I think … why on Earth would someone decide to build a huge (somewhat lacking in the charm Keeneland posses) racetrack in the middle of Urban America? Answer: $$$ And, this is the answer as to why the Derby attracts West Coasters with bottomless, designer wallets and purses.