UNC Health Johnston’s Derby Day is May 4

While the stylish ladies certainly turn heads, it’s the horses who steal the show at UNC Health Johnston Derby Day. The popular fundraiser is returning to the Portofino Equestrian Center in Clayton on May 4.

Like the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, guests are invited to walk the red carpet in their finest Derby hats and fashion, sip mint juleps and watch real horse races. 

The riders are members of the Red Mountain Hounds, a foxhunting club based in Rougemont. At the starting bell, they race their horses around a nearly half-mile dirt track, churning up dust as they go.

“We truly capture the spirit of the Kentucky Derby with exhilarating live horse races and the opportunity to bet on your favorite for a chance to win great prizes,” says Allison Strickland, director of the Johnston Health Foundation. “And due to popular demand, we’re thrilled to add a fourth race this year.”

Across the grounds, volunteers with Stampede of Love, a non-profit group, show off their miniature therapy horses, dressed in colorful bonnets.

CBS-17 chief meteorologist Wes Hohenstein and local personality Melissa Overton will emcee the fashion contest and a brief program, including a toast to physicians, who are being honored for their dedication to the community. 

Gates open at 2:30 p.m. The event closes at 7 p.m. after the viewing of the Kentucky Derby. In addition to food and drinks, there will be children’s activities and a drawing for a dream vacation.

Strickland says more than 100 volunteers help with the event, which drew more than 800 people last year. “We’re grateful for their help in putting on a fun-filled day, which ultimately benefits the patients, programs and services of UNC Health Johnston.”

The price of admission covers food, two drink tickets and access to all attractions, including the Derby Day fashion contest. Adult tickets are $75. Youth tickets, ages 6 to 20, are $25. Children ages 5 and under get in free.

For more information, go to www.johnstonhealthfoundation.org/derbyday

UNC Health Johnston Derby Day schedule:

2:30 p.m. -- Gates open

3:30 p.m. – Horseraces at the track

5:15 p.m. – Derby Day fashion contest; drawing for a dream vacation (tickets sold separately)

6:25 p.m. – Viewing of the Kentucky Derby (approximate time)

7 p.m. – Event ends

About the Johnston Health Foundation

The Johnston Health Foundation seeks to improve the health and well-being of the people in our communities by supporting the patients, programs and services of UNC Health Johnston. The foundation’s areas of focus are as follows:

• Access to Care: Working to ensure access to care regardless of one's ability to pay
• Holistic Care: Providing patient support that addresses physical, mental, and spiritual needs to promote overall well-being and optimal health outcomes
• Innovative & Preventative Care: Supporting leading-edge programs, equipment, and initiatives designed with vulnerable populations in mind
• End-of-Life Care: Funding hospice and bereavement support, ensuring quality end-of-life care with comfort, compassion, and dignity for all in need

About UNC Health Johnston

UNC Health Johnston has been Johnston County’s primary health care system since 1951. Based in Smithfield, with a second location in Clayton, the hospital is an integral part of the county’s growth and development. Johnston is committed to its community, focused on quality health care, and invested in well-being. As part of the UNC Health system, Johnston holds itself to the highest standards of quality and excellence and is committed to bringing expert care close to home for its community.