Kentucky Derby: Kids share their perspective

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association has partnered with the children and grandchildren of Kentucky Derby trainers to launch the "Kentucky Derby Kids" campaign on social media. The campaign offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Derby experience, with the kids sharing their experiences and emotions, interviewing their parents, and handicapping the race.

There are currently 11 participants in the initiative, representing 10 Kentucky Derby hopefuls, and more are expected to join in Derby week. The Kentucky HBPA will donate $100 to the charity of choice on behalf of each participant.

“It will bring a new eye to horse racing, a more behind-the-scene look at what goes on,” said Bailey Romans, whose father, Dale Romans, will saddle Blue Grass Stakes winner Brody’s Cause in the Derby. “Everything is about the day of the races, the Kentucky Derby is the greatest two minutes in sports, but there’s more that goes into it than just those two minutes. I think this will give people an opportunity to see the work involved in making these horses champions.”

The venture, which is overseen by Bailey Romans and turf writer Jennie Rees, can be followed on the @KyHBPA Twitter account.