Simply Put, I NEED To Be A Part Of This Great Tradition That Once Helped Save The Country - The Kentucky Turtle Derby
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There's no other way to put it. I need to be a part of this Kentucky Turtle Derby. It's one of the best traditions, not just in the Commonwealth, but in the entire country. You see it dates back to 1945 when the Kentucky Derby was canceled in early May because of that pesky World War. (h/t WDRB)
The Derby, America’s longest continuously held sports event, had been scheduled for May 2. It will now be run Sept. 5, kicking off Labor Day weekend. It’s the first time the Derby won’t be held on its traditional first Saturday in May since 1945, when it was run June 9. The federal government suspended horse racing nationwide for most of the first half of the year before World War II ended in early May, but not in time to hold the first leg of the Triple Crown that month.
The Courier-Journal headline from 1945 read: “167 Turtles Arrive for Races Saturday” and about 6,500 fans filled the Jefferson County Armory for the 8 p.m. post time. The event went down like this: 20 turtles were herded into seven qualifying races and the winners went on to compete in a 20-foot finale.
I've made it clear my takes on horse racing. I've talked about how Keeneland is 100% better than Churchill, but nothing tops Derby weekend in the Commonwealth. It's one of the best party weekends you'll ever go to. It starts with Thurby and the Oaks on Friday and obviously the Derby on Saturday. You never know who you're going to run into and party with on 4th Street.
But now a little turtle race to wet the beak? I need it. I need to be a part of this. They even got Victor Cruz! I love Victor Cruz! I'm a die hard Giants fan. Cruz is one of the most fun players we've had. I'd love to chop it up with him, ask him about Eli and get ready for some turtle racing.
And look at these names.
Pardon My Mulch and Steve in an exacta, no doubt about it. Zero chance for Lady Greenery and Now You See Me, Now You Don't. Don't trust them at all. Sergeant Slopez could be a sleeper here. Here's the race from last year:
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Time it up between a couple of the race at Churchill on Saturday and have yourself a day.