Although the Breeders’ Cup is relatively new compared to, say, the long-running Kentucky Derby, it has however been around long enough to have some established customs and traditions. Since 1984 this electrifying horse race has been captivating horse racing fans and non-fans alike. From the splendid “Down the Stretch” to the hats, the traditions of the Breeders’ Cup have helped make this one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.
In today’s article, Superior Executive Services is going to look at some of these popular traditions. The 2018 Breeders’ Cup will take place on November 2 and 3 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. If you have yet to book your travel arrangements and secure your tickets for this thoroughbred horse race, contact us today! Our team of corporate hospitality and entertainment professionals can tailor the perfect trip for you, from arrival to departure.
Here are five of the most popular Breeders’ Cup World Championships traditions.
The Breeders’ Cupcake
For nearly a decade, the Cup has held a competition to select the official cupcake of the Breeders’ Cup. Not only will winning this competition give you some serious baking bragging rights, but, more importantly, it means that your cupcake will be sold at the track during race days and at surrounding events. Over the course of the weekend, thousands of cupcakes are sold, and the best part is that the proceeds are donated to Children Mending Hearts — a nonprofit organization that empowers at-risk US children through education and by connecting them with international children in need.
Fedoras Galore
Often the host racetrack will dictate the fashion of the attendees. However, one thing that often remains constant is the headwear. Similar to the Derby, a trip to the Breeders’ Cup will expose you to a melting pot of headwear. From fedoras to extravagant and flowery sun hats, you can expect to see all types of fascinating head garments at Churchill Downs this fall. During the event, men and women are judged on their head fashion and the winners leave with a nice cash prize.
“Down the Stretch”
Most racetracks and big championship events have an official drink. Similar to how the Kentucky Derby has the Mint Julep, the Breeders’ Cup has a delicious beverage called, “Down the Stretch.” This beautiful creation was first concocted in 2007 and typically consist of some combination of Grey Goose Vodka, Blue Curacao, cranberry juice, sweet and sour mix, and Sprite.
The Flower Blanket
Staying true to horse racing tradition, the winner of the Breeders’ Cup Championship receives a garland of flowers. What makes the Breeders’ Cup garland unique is that it is created with yellow chrysanthemum and purple chrysanthemums, highlighting the race’s official colors and logo.
The Torrie Horse Trophy
Perhaps the most notable tradition of the Breeders’ Cup is the awarding of the Torrie Horse Trophy. Each year, the winner receives a trophy that dates back to the 1580s. The trophy was, of course, not made then, but it is a bronze reproduction of a famous Torrie horse created by Italian Giovanni da Bologna during the late 16th-century. This stallion of a trophy has become an emblem of the race.
Experience the Tradition at the 2018 Breeders’ Cup
This year’s Breeders’ Cup is going to be held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. When you partner with Superior Executive Services to arrange your Breeders’ Cup package, you can expect to be taken care of from arrival to departure. Our packages can be individually tailored to include luxury accommodation, hospitality, transportation, and more.
