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Heroes Day
October 20, 2024
Heroes Day at Keeneland honors members of the military (active duty and veterans), first responders, healthcare workers and their families each spring and fall race meets.
On this day, heroes and their families receive free general admission, reserved grandstand seating, and access to the North Terrace family zone including activities and a complimentary meal provided by City Barbeque this fall for the first 2,000 patrons. Throughout the day there will be special programming on the track including a flag roll out and honoree recognitions in the Winner's Circle.
A POW-MIA Chair of Honor will be on display on the Paddock Apron to bring awareness to past and current POW-MIA military members through a partnership with The Rolling Thunder Kentucky Chapter 5.
Each hero is eligible to receive up to 4 complimentary tickets for this day. If you have questions, call (859) 254-3412.
FAQ
- When is Heroes Day?
One Sunday each spring and fall race meet, Keeneland honors heroes and their families. The Fall 2024 Heroes Day will take place on Sunday, October 20. Activities will take place in the North Terrace from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- How do I receive free admission?
All members of the military (active duty & veterans), first responders, healthcare workers, and their families can receive up to (4) four complimentary general admission tickets to enjoy the race day. Tickets can be secured in advance HERE.
- What programming can I look forward to throughout the day?
Heroes and their families can visit the North Terrace from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. for a complimentary meal provided by City Barbeque for the first 2,000 people. Sections A, B & C in the grandstand are available for heroes and their families to enjoy the race day. Seating is limited and available on a first come first serve basis.
The National Anthem and Presentation of Colors will take place in the Walking Ring at 12:00 p.m.
The Henry Clay JROTC will assist with the flag roll out on the track after Race 5. Be on the lookout for special presentations in the Winner’s Circle throughout the day following Races 1-4.
The POW-MIA Chair of Honor will be on display in the Paddock.
Heroes can receive 30% off their purchase at the Keeneland Shop with a valid I.D.
- Where can I park?
Free, Public Parking: Free, public parking will be available in The Hill and Meadow by entering Gate 1. Patrons will have access to complimentary shuttling to shuttle depot. Customer service representatives will be at each shuttle stop to help with questions.
Permit Parking: All paved parking rows will be for permit parking and free accessible parking only. No reservation is required for accessible parking.
Patrons who are attending the Fall Meet are able to pre-purchase a parking space in the Green Lot. These parking spaces will be limited each day and are expected to sell out.
Fall 2024 Honorees
UK Markey Cancer Center
This fall we are pleased to recognize 3 healthcare employees from UK Markey Cancer Center for their commitment to excellent service:
- Sarah Hines, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC - Advanced Practice Provider, Medical Oncology,
- Catherine Rainwater, BSN, RN, CRNI, VA-BC, OCN Nurse Clinical - Certified Registered Nurse Infusion, Vascular Access Board Certified, Oncology Certified Nurse
- Katie Brown, MSSW, CSW - Social Worker Senior in Psych-Oncology Services
Lexington Fire Department
Three firefighters from the Lexington Fire Department are currently engaged in hurricane relief efforts across multiple states. The team originally mobilized to assist Florida ahead of Hurricane Helene. However, due to changing circumstances, they have since been sent to North Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and are now back south to Florida in response to Hurricane Milton. These responders are members of Ohio Task Force One, a federal FEMA team that specializes in disaster response. The ongoing commitment of these Lexington firefighters underscores the critical role local responders play in national disaster efforts, showcasing their readiness to assist communities in need during challenging times.
Lexington VA
In partnership with the Lexington VA, this fall we highlight one of their many programs, the Blind Rehabilitation Services (BRS). The mission of BRS is to assist eligible Veterans and active duty Service members with a visual impairment in developing the skills needed for personal independence and successful reintegration into the community and family environment. Veterans’ Health Administration is the first and only national healthcare system to integrate rehabilitation services completely and seamlessly for patients with vision loss into its health benefits. This ensures that patients receive the finest medical and rehabilitation care, as well as cutting-edge assistive technology. There are more than one million Veterans in the United States who have vision loss that cannot be corrected with regular eyeglasses which can cause a loss of ability to perform necessary daily activities.
Kentucky State Police
Trooper McGuire is a 4-year veteran of the agency and is assigned to the Campbellsburg Post. He is an instrumental member of his post with a strong work ethic and diligence investigating 63 cases last year. In addition to his casework, he is very active in his local community and Kentucky State Police outreach programs like Shop with a Trooper. His motivation is a testament to his character which makes him not only a great person but a great trooper.
Detective Anthony Hardin was selected as KSP Detective of the Year on Sept. 19, 2024. Detective Hardin is a 14-year veteran of the agency and is assigned to the Drug Enforcement Special Investigations Branch. This detective has multiple notable cases, including executing a search warrant, which led to a massive drug bust. In 2023, he seized over $913,000 worth of evidence in 64 cases through narcotics investigations. He excels as a detective and is admired for his life outside of the Kentucky State Police.
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