Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day honored at annual Derby in December event

Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day honored at annual Derby in December event

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (December 11, 2025) — The Kentucky Derby Museum, in partnership with the Kentucky Derby Festival and Churchill Downs Racetrack, welcomed hundreds of guests Thursday, December 11 for Derby in December, an annual celebration that brings the excitement of Derby season to life months before the first Saturday in May.

This year’s event was highlighted by the presentation of the museum’s Lifetime Achievement Award to Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day, honoring his extraordinary career, integrity, and extensive contributions to the sport of Thoroughbred racing. Following the award ceremony, guests enjoyed a meet-and-greet opportunity with Day and explored a new exhibit dedicated in his honor.

“I’m deeply humbled by this award,” said Pat Day, Hall of Fame jockey and 1992 Kentucky Derby winner. “The Kentucky Derby has given me so much throughout my life — from the incredible horses I’ve had the privilege to ride, to the fans and community who make this sport so special. To be recognized here at the Kentucky Derby Museum, in the place that keeps Derby history alive, means more to me than words can say.”

The Pat Day exhibit at the museum features decades of his accomplishments. The collection ranges from his high school photo to awards celebrating milestone victories as a jockey, including the silks he wore during his final race before retiring after the 2005 Delaware Handicap. The new exhibit was unveiled following the presentation of Day’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

“On behalf of the museum, we are thrilled to celebrate Hall of Fame jockey Pat Day with this Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Patrick Armstrong, Kentucky Derby Museum President and CEO. “His impact is nothing short of spectacular and we are excited for everyone to visit the museum and see this new exhibit showcasing his career.”

Throughout the day, guests enjoyed free admission, treats, and hands-on activities from all three presenting partners. The Kentucky Derby Festival kicked off the upcoming season with the 2026 Pegasus Pin unveiling. Guests celebrated the Festival spirit throughout the day with exclusive race discounts for the 25th Humana Marathon, secured tickets to their favorite Festival events, and enjoyed unique photo opportunities and giveaways.

“Derby in December starts the countdown to our favorite time of year,” said Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO. “From honoring legends like Pat Day to unveiling the 2026 Pegasus Pin, today’s celebration captures the excitement and traditions that make Derby season so special. We look forward to seeing everyone next spring!”

Churchill Downs brought the thrill of Derby Week to life through themed activities that highlighted the energy and traditions of Opening Night, 502’sDay, Winsday, and Thurby. Guests decorated wooden bow ties for the 2026 Opening Night theme, “Bourbon, Bets & Bow Ties,” enjoyed a photo opportunity with the Kentucky Derby trophy, and entered to win 2026 Derby Week tickets.

“While the Kentucky Derby is annually staged on the first Saturday in May, the mystique of the Run for the Roses is on the minds of the Churchill Downs family 365 days a year,” said Mike Anderson, Churchill Downs Racetrack President. “We were thrilled to celebrate a special Derby in December by highlighting Derby Week and honoring the legendary Pat Day with our fantastic partners at the Kentucky Derby Museum and Kentucky Derby Festival.”

Now in its third year, Derby in December has become an annual Louisville tradition. A special thanks goes out to members from Kentucky's Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet for attending. The day was also made memorable with an acclamation issued by Governor Andy Beshear.

MEDIA NOTE: For interview requests or coverage opportunities, contact Darby Beane at dbeane@derbymuseum.org. Media can download event photography from the museum's Dropbox.