Newly Renovated Galt House Hotel & Suites to Host Several Kentucky Derby Festival Events;...

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The Galt House Hotel & Suites, one of Louisville's legendary landmarks, will showcase its recently completed renovations as the site of several Kentucky Derby Festival events, including the unveiling of "Gallop to Glory: A Lasting Tribute to Derby Winning Jockeys"

The Galt House is one of the largest hotels in the Midwest with 1,300 rooms and suites. Already completed for the enjoyment of Kentucky Derby visitors is the $50 million renovation of the East Tower lobby, the East Tower suites, the 23,330-square-foot Grand Ballroom, the Pedway, "Club 360" fitness center, Presidential Suite and the East Tower meeting rooms. The centerpiece of the renovation is the Conservatory, which spans Fourth Street and links the East and West Towers under an enormous glass dome. Designed to reflect the grandeur of the 1851 World's Fair Crystal Palace in London, the interior features a tropical environment with lush foliage, aviary and lounge areas.

The Galt House has commissioned artist, Craig Kaviar, to design "Gallop to Glory." Similar to Hollywood's "Walk of Fame," all 30 living Kentucky Derby winning jockeys have been invited to preserve their handprints in cement, which will be placed around a Gallopalooza horse at the main entrance of The Galt House. Each year, the newest Derby winning rider's handprints will be added. Kaviar is also designing unique roses, made of steel, to complement each jockey's handprint.

Among the jockeys invited to participate are active riders Pat Day, Jerry Bailey, Gary Stevens, Victor Espinoza, Stewart Elliott, and Jorge Chavez and retired Hall of Fame riders Steve Cauthen, Ron Turcotte, Chris McCarron, Laffit Pincay Jr., Angel Cordero Jr., and Eddie Delahoussaye.

Other Derby Festival Events to be held at the Galt House, include the Meijer Derby Festival Marathon/miniMarathon, Fillies' Derby Ball and the Mint Jubilee Gala. The Galt House also serves as the media headquarters for Thunder Over Louisville.

For a complete press kit, contact Game Day Communications, 513-929-4263.