The legendary Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, has partnered with technology leader SAP to elevate the fan experience for the race’s sesquicentennial. This extensive agreement designates SAP as the “Official Technology Partner” of the Kentucky Derby and awards them title rights to the premium SAP Starting Gate Suites.
This collaboration, expanding upon an existing multi-year relationship, will feature SAP prominently throughout the Kentucky Derby, including key integrations within the Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby mobile applications. Both entities view this as a harmonious pairing, with Churchill Downs CEO Bill Mudd commending SAP’s dedication to advancement and SAP America President Lloyd Adams emphasizing the Derby’s iconic stature. This joint effort aims to introduce state-of-the-art technology to one of the globe’s most renowned sporting spectacles.
Churchill Downs Incorporated is going above and beyond for the 150th Kentucky Derby! Following their recent collaboration with Sports Illustrated, they’ve unveiled the “SI Club,” an opulent dining establishment at the racetrack. This marks their sixth hospitality venue in Kentucky, generating more than 150 full-time positions for the regional workforce. The main attraction? The SI Club will premiere during Derby Week 2024, providing patrons with exceptional equine-centric cuisine and stunning vistas of the modernized paddock and saddling zone. This is merely one element of an extensive $200 million modernization endeavor Churchill Downs is spearheading for the landmark 150th Derby. But wait, there’s more! They also recently debuted Derby City Gaming Downtown, a Kentucky Derby-inspired entertainment complex showcasing vintage racing machines, live broadcasts, sports wagering, and a retail outlet brimming with Kentucky Derby souvenirs. What a commemoration!