Set to Open for 150th Kentucky Derby Run For The Roses
Churchill Downs has just announced an exciting multi-year partnership with Sports Illustrated, granting exclusive naming rights to a groundbreaking dining experience – Club SI. Set to debut on the opening night of Derby Week, this luxury venue is poised to redefine the culinary landscape at Churchill Downs, especially in anticipation of the historic 150th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 4, 2024. Club SI at Churchill Downs will elevate the hype around this history Run for the Roses!
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The Partnership and Naming Rights
The collaboration between Churchill Downs and Sports Illustrated for Club SI is more than just a naming rights agreement; it signifies a harmonious blend of the racetrack’s rich history and the iconic Sports Illustrated brand. Originally planned as the 1895 Club, the rebranded Club SI is part of the $200 million renovated Paddock Project, promising an unparalleled equine-focused dining experience. We still prefer the 1895 Club branding as it seems more fitting for the iconic Kentucky attraction which hosts the longest continuously ran sporting event in the United States.
Unveiling Club SI
Club SI is designed to offer patrons a modern, sophisticated race day experience. Situated within the revamped Paddock Project, it provides an immersive view of the all-new Paddock and Paddock Runway, granting guests behind-the-scenes access and an exclusive vantage point. The interior of Club SI is a homage to both Churchill Downs and Sports Illustrated, featuring iconic magazine covers, editorial content showcasing past Kentucky Derby races, and a sneak peek into Sports Illustrated’s new SI Resorts vertical.
Culinary Delights and Ambiance
Club SI is not merely a dining venue; it’s a celebration of gourmet cuisine intertwined with the excitement of horse racing. The curated Chef’s Table Buffet promises a culinary journey, offering gourmet dishes that cater to parties of two, four, six, or eight guests. The ambiance is a fusion of modern elegance and equestrian charm, providing an inviting space for an unforgettable equine-focused dining adventure. The most important question is yet to be answered though, how’s the bourbon selection?
Elevated Race Day Atmosphere
Club SI goes beyond being a mere dining venue; it promises an elevated race day atmosphere for discerning guests. Open exclusively on premium race days, this luxurious establishment invites patrons to immerse themselves in an unparalleled experience. From designated wagering windows and private bars to outdoor trackside viewing for live races, Club SI caters to the desires of race enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Celebrity ambassadors, carefully selected each year, will serve as gracious hosts during both the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks, ensuring that every moment is infused with excitement, sophistication, and the distinctive touch of Sports Illustrated’s iconic editorial artwork. Prepare to revel in a premium race day experience like never before.
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“As we approach the 150th Kentucky Derby, we are thrilled to partner with a brand as iconic as Sports Illustrated to offer guests an enhanced way to enjoy this incredible anniversary event,” said Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack. “Sports Illustrated shares our goal of combining exciting sports moments with upscale entertainment, and Club SI will provide the perfect space to achieve this.”
– Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack
As the 150th Kentucky Derby approaches, the partnership between Churchill Downs and Sports Illustrated brings forth Club SI as the epitome of luxury equine dining. This collaboration seamlessly integrates the thrill of horse racing with the upscale entertainment that both brands are renowned for. Club SI invites patrons to savor gourmet cuisine, embrace the ambiance of Churchill Downs’ storied history, and witness the excitement of the Kentucky Derby in a way never experienced before. Prepare for an unparalleled journey at Club SI – where luxury, history, and equine excellence converge for an unforgettable Derby weekend.
