Derby Day returns May 4

Submitted by UNC Health Johnston

SMITHFIELD — While the stylish ladies certainly turn heads, it’s the horses who steal the show at UNC Health Johnston Derby Day. The popular fundraiser is returning to the Portofino Equestrian Center in Clayton on May 4.

Like the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, guests are invited to walk the red carpet in their finest Derby hats and fashion, sip mint juleps and watch real horse races. The riders are members of the Red Mountain Hounds, a foxhunting club based in Rougemont. At the starting bell, they race their horses around a nearly half-mile dirt track, churning up dust as they go.

“We truly capture the spirit of the Kentucky Derby with exhilarating live horse races and the opportunity to bet on your favorite for a chance to win great prizes,” said Allison Strickland, director of the Johnston Health Foundation. “And due to popular demand, we’re thrilled to add a fourth race this year.”

Across the grounds, volunteers with Stampede of Love, a non-profit group, show off their miniature therapy horses, dressed in colorful bonnets.

CBS-17 chief meteorologist Wes Hohenstein and local personality Melissa Overton will emcee the fashion contest and a brief program, including a toast to physicians, who are being honored for their dedication to the community.

Gates open at 2:30 p.m. The event closes at 7 p.m. after the viewing of the Kentucky Derby. In addition to food and drinks, there will be children’s activities and a drawing for a dream vacation.

Strickland says more than 100 volunteers help with the event, which drew more than 800 people last year. “We’re grateful for their help in putting on a fun-filled day, which ultimately benefits the patients, programs and services of UNC Health Johnston.”

The price of admission covers food, two drink tickets and access to all attractions, including the Derby Day fashion contest. Adult tickets are $75. Youth tickets, ages 6 to 20, are $25. Children ages 5 and under get in free.

For more information, go to www. johnstonhealthfoundation.org/derbyday.