Jet off to feel the thrill of the races this May at the Kentucky Derby

Capping off the 2-week Kentucky Derby Festival, the Kentucky Derby – America’s fastest two minutes in sport as it is often called – returns to Louisville, Kentucky on May 6th.

The race at Churchill Downs is now in its 143rd year, and is the only one of the three Triple Crown races to have run without a break since starting in 1875. And it is certainly popular. With greater attendance than the other Triple Crown races and the Breeders’ Cup, there will be lots of people watching to do when not focused on the race, as you sip a mint julep, the drink of the derby.

 
The drink of the derby; Mint julep
 

This year for the betting spectators things are looking very open. After a resounding win at the Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds, Girvin tops the leaderboard, so eyes will be watching this Kentucky-born, 3-year-old colt to see if he can perform again – and take his stakes earnings from under $1 million to date, to well over $2 million.

Away from the race, fashion will play a huge role of course, and the headwear and outfits can sometimes surpass the spectacle of the race itself. This year will be no different, and with VIP access available to Derby events, in-track hospitality parties and to the Winner’s Party, what you wear if you’re joining in is key.

 
The race takes place at Churchill Downs, Louisville
 

The on-track attendance is again expected to easily surpass 150,000 (more than any other sporting event), so find a good corner at the Winner’s Party to try and escape the crowds, if that is possible, or just join in the celebrations with another mint julep.

For a place to stay, the regal Seelbach Hilton does a good job at conveying the nostalgia and pedigree of the derby, celebrating Kentucky traditions in a grand style in the middle of downtown Louisville – about a 15-minute drive from the track.

 
Stay at teh Seelbach Hilton for pure luxury
 

For a chic, modern vibe try 21c Museum Hotel, set on Museum Row and combining a multi-venue contemporary art museum that draws art lovers from New York and LA, with a 91-room boutique hotel. Sample the creations of chef Mike Wajda at the Proof on Main restaurant, or enjoy a cocktail at their bar.

When the races are done, it is impossible to resist the city’s most famous product, bourbon. For a wonderful tour try the Peerless Distillery set just back from the Louisville Riverwalk on the banks of the Ohio River.

 
Head to the Peerless Distillery
 

Here see how five generations have kept the industry alive and well. Take a behind-the-scenes tour for a closer look how both bourbon and rye whiskey are produced, from grain to bottle, and of course take a moment to browse and shop for some of their finest to take a little sample back home with you.

With a plethora of parties, the thrill of a big win and the chance to mingle with stars from the worlds of film and music, this May there is much to bring you to Louisville Kentucky. Book your private jet charter to Clark Regional or a very light jet to Bowman Field Airport and arrive to the races in style and luxury!