Kentucky Derby 2026: Race favorites, celebrity buzz and fashion trends take over Churchill Downs
Fox News • • sports
Key Points:
- Golden Tempo won the 152nd Kentucky Derby, marking a significant achievement with Cherie DeVaux potentially becoming the first female trainer to win the race.
- Celebrity attendees included Melissa Joan Hart, Danica McKellar, Camille Kostek, and others, who showcased elegant and bold fashion choices, with a trend towards summery pastels and extravagant hats.
- Food and drink expert Tim Laird recommended traditional Kentucky Derby party foods like bacon and pecan pimento cheese and Hot Brown sliders, along with his signature Oaks Lily cocktail, which rivals the popularity of mint juleps.
- Weather conditions for the race day were favorable, with partly cloudy skies, mild temperatures in the high 50s to 60 degrees, and light winds, contrasting last year's muddy track due to heavy rain.
- Master distiller Elizabeth McCall introduced a $5,000 mint julep at the Derby, with proceeds benefiting the charity Closely Crafted, celebrating American craftsmanship through a patriotic-themed drink presentation.
