LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Every champion deserves recognition, so when a new Derby winner is donned with roses, the Kentucky Derby Museum makes the proper updates to several exhibits to reflect that.
The Derby Museum has just finished updating its “Winner’s Circle” exhibit to recognize the latest champion of Kentucky Derby 149 winner, Mage.
Karen Luckett was one parton to get a first-hand look at the new exhibit. She visited the museum at Churchill Downs for the first time in several decades.
“You know, I probably haven’t been here since my kids were in grade school and they are 50 and 42,” Luckett said.
On this long-awaited return visit, Luckett brought her grandson, great niece and great nephew and though it’s been so many years, the timing of her return is perfect as the museum debuts its updated Winner Circle exhibit.
“It’s neat that they have all this stuff. The harness and everything. Wow!” Luckett exclaimed.
Highlights of the exhibit are a painted replica horse, donned in silks, and Mage’s signature nasal strips. Mage’s owners also donated race-worn horseshoes that still have dirt on them.
“We love being able to work with the Mage team this year, and he’s going to be up now all the way through Derby 150, which is really exciting. There’s a lot of interest coming into the museum, especially leading up to Derby 150,” said Katrina Helmer with the Kentucky Derby Museum.
Unique to Mage’s story is his ownership group, with hundreds of people buying into the dream at $50 a share.
Mage’s story will be on exhibit until Derby 150 but forever part of Derby lore.
“You know, you don’t really appreciate how you’re a part of history when you win this race forever. Like, just seeing some of these elements and the signatures, you can’t take that away from those people ever,” Rose Edmonds said. Edmonds and her husband were visiting Kentucky for the first time.
As another chapter is added to horse racing history, visitors can discover and rediscover what makes the sport so memorable at the museum.
The Derby Museum has also updated its video, “The Greatest Race” to include Mage’s thrilling late charge and win.