Hats, bow ties, food trucks, and racing fun are all on the agenda as the Kempenfelt Rotary Club gears up for its 10th annual Kempenfelt Derby — a lively, local spin on the Kentucky Derby, happening June 10 at Georgian Downs.
“It's one of my favourite events of the year,” Mike Campbell, President of the Kempenfelt Rotary Club, told Barrie 360. “How often do you get to go get dressed up and go to the racetrack?”
Doors open at 6 p.m. and post time is 7. The evening promises a mix of glamour, excitement, and purpose — with all proceeds supporting Hospice Simcoe ($49,000 to date), a longstanding partner of the event.
From festive fashion to fast-paced harness racing, the Kempenfelt Derby isn’t just about the horses. It’s a full evening experience. Attendees are encouraged to arrive in their "best bib and tucker" — a nod to the event's fun and fancy dress code. Think big hats, bold colours, and southern charm.
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This year, organizers have made some fresh changes. “We've changed a few things with the food experience,” Campbell said. “We’ve got hors d’oeuvres and some fabulous food trucks for desserts. There’ll be beer this year, which is a different twist — and of course, the always entertaining fun photo booth.”
Tickets are $85, and there are multiple ways to get involved. Guests can also sponsor a horse for $500, which includes two event tickets, or even sponsor an entire race to compete against friends.
“This is a big fundraiser for our club and a great night out,” Campbell added. “Every year we go, my wife comes home and says how great a time she had.”
Planning for the Derby starts the minute the previous one ends — a testament to its growing popularity and the dedication behind it.
To buy tickets, sponsor a horse, or learn more, visit kempenfeltrotary.ca.
Listen to our interview with Mike Campbell on this week's What Barrie's Talking About podcast.
