It’s known as ‘the most exciting two minutes in sports? and it’s been an American tradition since 1875.
But you don’t have to travel all the way to Louisville to enjoy the thrill and pageantry of the Kentucky Derby.
No, sir.
Folks can get a taste of it in nearby Metamora Township by attending the 25th Annual Derby Day Celebration on Saturday, May 2 at the Banbury Cross Therapeutic Equestrian Center (1223 Brauer Rd.). The fun begins at 5 p.m.
The event will include silent and live auctions, an opportunity to watch the Kentucky Derby on big-screen televisions and wager on the race via a 50/50-style raffle, a variety of adult beverages (including mint juleps) and a delicious dinner.
Guests will also be able to meet the gentle horses, caring instructors and happy riders who are the heart and soul of the Banbury Cross mission.
This popular fund-raiser draws hundreds of stylishly-dressed ladies and gentlemen who come to enjoy the historic race and donate generously to help keep Banbury Cross going year after year.
Last year, the Derby Day Celebration raised a little over $100,000 for the center.
‘It was our biggest event ever,? said Metamora Township resident Peter Gilles, treasurer of the Banbury Cross Board of Directors. ‘We had almost 250 people last year, which is about the capacity.?
Tickets are $100 for general admission, $150 for patrons and $250 for winner’s circle guests. To obtain tickets, please visit www.banburycrosstec.org or call (248) 628-7433. Gilles is taking ticket orders as well and can be reached at (810) 678-8384.
More than 50 percent of the annual budget for Banbury Cross is derived from this single event, according to Gilles.
‘It’s absolutely the biggest (fund-raiser the center has),? he said. ‘Nothing compares to it.?
Banbury Cross utilizes horseback riding to help students with physical and cognitive disabilities grow emotionally and socially while improving their overall physical fitness.
Many of the students attend Oxford Schools.
For these special students, horseback riding increases self-confidence, builds core strength and muscle tone, enhances coordination, provides a calming activity and helps develop a sense of independence.
‘I’ve seen what they do and I know the research behind it. It’s very important,? Gilles said.
In a world filled with constant, sometimes painful, reminders that they’re different, Banbury Cross gives these special students a place to fit in and feel like they truly belong.
‘They really shine (here),? said Gilles, who loves witnessing ‘the joy that they get out of riding.?
Gilles, a retired school teacher who spent 30 years in the Wayne-Westland district, has been volunteering with Banbury Cross for eight years.
‘Anything dealing with children is important to me,? he said.