(Edited press release)
Churchill Downs launched the official Web site for the 2007 Kentucky Derby presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) and the official 2007 Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) Web site on Feb. 7.
The streamlined, redesigned sites take advantage of the latest advances in online technology while continuing to offer coverage of the Kentucky Derby, its sister race, the Kentucky Oaks, and the prep seasons leading up to both historic events. The 133rd running of the Kentucky Derby will take place May 5, while the 133rd Kentucky Oaks will be held May 4.
The most exciting new feature of the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Web sites is the implementation of exclusive weblogs (“blogs”) written by some of the leading handicappers in horse racing, covering prep races throughout the three months leading up to the races.
The sites will also feature daily news updates, weekly video podcasts, a variety of RSS feeds, free video of every major Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks prep race, and detailed information on each Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks contender, including photographs, videos, past performances, detailed pedigrees, and workout information. The Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Web sites also include an online store and a virtual Kentucky Derby experience, with Web cams, celebrity videos, and expanded photo galleries.
“The 2007 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Web sites continue Churchill Downs’ tradition of leading our industry in online technology implementation,” said Jeremy Borseth, senior director of channel services and Internet operations for Churchill Downs, Inc. “These sites incorporate popular ‘social media’ elements such as expert blogs, podcasts, and RSS feeds to maximize customers’ experiences while still providing a content-rich, user-friendly Web site that visitors of any sophistication can navigate and enjoy."
A feature returning in 2007 is the “Road to the Kentucky Derby” and “Road to the Kentucky Oaks” sections. These areas offer complete previews and reviews of every major prep race on the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks trails, including exclusive articles, past performance charts, official results, stakes recaps, and free video analysis from Churchill Downs Simulcast Network handicappers.