Off To The Races: CBC Derby House 2019

Three days of festivities. Two minutes of racing. One epic experience.

For the second year in a row, CBC brought together media and brands for the experience of a lifetime in Louisville during its most iconic weekend: the Kentucky Derby.

With “the most exciting two minutes in sports” as the backdrop, CBC Derby House puts the spotlight on the brands that make both Louisville and the Kentucky Derby so unique. From making bets in the Vineyard Vines club and sipping Angry Orchard Rosé Cider at Churchill Downs to touring Woodford Reserve Distillery and designing custom Derby jewelry at Kendra Scott, media and brands came together for an authentic Louisville experience at CBC Derby House.

 

Day One: Dawn at the Downs

Leading up to Derby weekend, our VIP guests were granted an inside look at Churchill Downs in the early morning. While the horses were training and getting pampered in preparation for the big race, our group of media and influencers did some pampering of their own at the Kendra Scott Color Bar to design custom jewelry. We decided on an accessory-of-choice and then picked out the metals, jewels, and more to customize our perfect derby day accessories.

Next, we were treated to an exclusive taste of the new Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition bourbon (for $1,500 per crystal bottle, it goes down smooooooth!). We toured the distillery, all while sipping on the best mint juleps we’ve ever had. Our tour ended with more tastings, and Woodford showed us how to pair different bourbons with various foods to bring out those flavor notes. We’ll cheers to that!

 

 

Day Two: Oaks Day

On day two, media got a front row seat to Kentucky Oaks. Kentucky Oaks is a 144-year-old race tradition that’s all about the fillies (aka female horses). The event takes place one day before the derby, and fans arrive dressed in pink.  While the fillies are strutting their stuff on the race tracks, money is raised for women’s health. This year, Churchill Downs partnered with the Breast Health Program at Norton Cancer Institute.

Day Three: Derby Day!

Day three was spent sipping drinks, placing bets, and sporting our most fabulous Vineyard Vines outfits. We may have lost some money, but gained these incredible memories. At least we had each other (and mint juleps).

Thanks for the good times, Kentucky, and we’ll see you next year! In the meantime, check out our Instagram story highlights and #CBCDerbyHouse to relive all the derby magic.