For their twenty-eighth annual Derby Day on May 1, organizers of the Shepherd Center benefit are moving the horsey hobnob to an Olympic-sized venue. This year, the fundraiser will whinny from the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, site of the 1996 Summer Games equestrian competition.
As usual, the festively attired crowd can partake of the Kentucky Derby live via big screens. This year’s Derby Day also boasts the smooth sounds of Atlanta band Yacht Rock Revue, a cover act that embraces the artistry of Christopher Cross and Rupert Holmes. The combo is perfect entertainment for the benefit’s multi-generational crowd.
Explains the Shepherd Center’s events manager Anne Pearce: “It’s like going to the Kentucky Derby without the distance, the bad seats, or the $1,000 mint juleps. We’re now seeing the children of Derby Day’s founding members getting involved. We’re thrilled that we’re inspiring a second generation.”
Tickets are $60 in advance or $70 at the gate. For info: derbyday.com.
plus…
RICH’S TIPS
> Big Love actress Ginnifer Goodwin has been cast in the upcoming big-screen adaptation of Something Borrowed, by Atlanta novelist Emily Giffin.
> Along with business partner Zaza Pachulia of the Hawks, nightclub guru A.D. Allushi is bringing some nightlife back to Buckhead when the Buckhead Bottle Bar opens on East Paces Ferry Road.
> As soon as The Office and Saturday Night Live wrap for the season, look for Jenna Fischer and Jason Sudeikis to join Owen Wilson here to film the comedy Hall Pass.
Derby Day photo: Clarus Photography
