Potter Gray first graders race into Derby tradition

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Cheers and excitement filled the track at Potter Gray Elementary as first graders took part in their own version of the Kentucky Derby.

The annual “Derby Day” event is part of a classroom unit designed to teach students about Kentucky’s history and one of its most iconic traditions.

“Our first grade classes here at Potter Gray have a Kentucky Derby unit that they do every year,” said Principal Keith Brown. “We teach them about our state’s history, about the Kentucky Derby, specifically ‘My Old Kentucky Home’…just all the traditions that surround this time of year.”

While the races are the highlight, the day is about more than crossing the finish line. Students spent time preparing for the event by creating their own Derby experience from the ground up.

“Our children are able to create…lots of students made silks today that they wore during their races and made their own Derby horses,” Brown said. “They name their Derby horses.”

Dressed in their handmade racing gear, students took to the track, each hoping to come out on top. Families and classmates gathered to cheer them on, adding to the festive atmosphere.

For one student, the day ended in victory—complete with a tradition straight from Churchill Downs.

“Each student colored a rose, and that’s what covered our champion today,” Brown said.

The handmade “blanket of roses” mirrors the one draped over the winner of the Kentucky Derby, giving students a chance to experience the pageantry of the race firsthand.

Brown says the impact of Derby Day goes far beyond first grade.

“Our fifth graders—even sixth and seventh graders—talk about Derby Day and their experience,” he said. “So it’s a wonderful part of what we do here at Potter Gray.”

From classroom lessons to the finish line, the event offers a fun and memorable way for students to connect with Kentucky culture, one race at a time.