Kentucky-breds racing at Churchill Downs on the days of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) will be designated with the "Kentucky Proud" logo next to their names on the race programs.
Kentucky Proud is the official state farm marketing program; products marked with the green, red, and blue Kentucky Proud logo indicate they have been raised, grown, and/or processed in Kentucky by Kentuckians.
"This is a mutually beneficial partnership because it places the spotlight on Kentucky's world-class farms, breeders, and racing while placing the Kentucky Proud brand on a world stage," said state Agriculture Commissioner James Comer during the "And They're Off! Luncheon" at the Galt House Hotel April 19. "With this initiative, we finally unite the entire Kentucky agriculture community."
Comer said the branding initiative "Kentucky Proud for Kentucky-breds," is a significant moment for Kentucky agriculture.
"One of the major goals of my administration is to fully integrate the equine industry, Kentucky's signature industry, into our Kentucky Proud program, the most successful marketing initiative in the history of the Commonwealth," Comer said. "We began that process last year by ensuring that members of the horse industry would be eligible for Kentucky Proud funding, and today, we take a huge leap forward toward our ultimate goal."
"This initiative is about the Kentucky Derby. It's about the Kentucky Derby Festival. And it's all about Kentucky Proud," said Kevin Flanery, president of Churchill Downs racetrack and senior vice president of Churchill Downs Inc.