What started as a recreational activity reserved only for the elite, transformed into a popular sport that captures the hearts of fans from all around the world. Yes, we are talking about horse racing.
Horse racing is a sport full of thrills, excitement, and drama, no wonder why it has a huge fan base. Horse racing events are full of spectators that go above and beyond to witness some exciting racing.
Still, big events like the Kentucky Derby offer more than just horse racing. It is all about tradition, networking, and making an impression. No wonder why many celebrities reserve their seats at the Derby every year. This year the event happens on May 6th and the current Kentucky Derby odds favor Forte to win the race.
Among all the popular faces, we can also spot many rockstars that love the thrills of horse racing.
Here are some of them.
Rockstars That Love the Derby
Mick Jagger
Mick Jagger, Rolling Stone’s lead vocalist, has been spotted at various races throughout the world.
He’s also owned many racehorses, notably “Midas Touch,” which won the St. Leger Stakes in 2009. Jagger has attended the Kentucky Derby multiple times throughout the years, frequently dressed in his characteristic rockstar manner.
In 2013, he even presented the race’s winning jockey with the trophy.
Gene Simmons
Gene Simmons, the bassist for the legendary rock band KISS, is another well-known horse racing enthusiast.
He has attended the Kentucky Derby multiple times, often with his wife Shannon Tweed by his side.
Simmons has also owned several racehorses, including one named “Kaptain Hook” that competed in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf in 2014. He is known for his flamboyant style, and he always manages to make a statement with his outfits at the derby.
Jon Bon Jovi
Jon Bon Jovi, the lead vocalist of the rock band Bon Jovi, isn’t only Livin’ on a Prayer; he’s also livin’ for horse racing.
He was first spotted attending the Kentucky Derby in 2009 and has returned several times since. In truth, he owned a horse named “Integrity” that competed in the Belmont Stakes in 2013. When Bon Jovi attends the derby, he always wears a hat and sunglasses, which adds to his calm demeanor.
The leading guitarist of the bend, Richie Sambora also performed at the final leg of the Triple Crown races, at the Breeders’ Cup.
Alice Cooper
Alice Cooper, the legendary rock musician, is another celebrity who frequents the Kentucky Derby. He has been attending the race for over 20 years and even owns a racehorse named “Moooooove It”.
That is a weird name for sure, but nothing to be surprised of from Alice Cooper.
Cooper is known for his theatrical stage performances and unique fashion sense, and he brings that same flair to the derby. In 2019, he was spotted at the race in a bright green jacket and matching hat.
Steven Tyler
The list is getting better and better.
Here we have Steven Tyler, which is another rockstar that is also a big fan of the Kentucky Derby.
Steven Tyler, the rocker who can’t stop singing “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” is also a horse racing aficionado.
He has been spotted at the Kentucky Derby in 2001, not just attending but also performing the national anthem.
It seems like that day was special for him since he’s been a regular at the Derby ever since. And as you expect, his fashion taste, like his music, is anything but conventional.
Tyler enjoys combining colors and patterns and isn’t afraid to experiment. At the 2019 Derby, he stood out with a vivid jacket, a fedora, and a pair of sunglasses that would make even the most fashionable racegoer envy.
Final Words
It seems like horse racing, especially the Kentucky Derby is a great fit for rockstars. This proves that the Kentucky Derby isn’t just a sport, it is a spectacle that has a diverse audience from all around the world.
From big celebrity names to regular people, the Kentucky Derby is a place where everyone is welcomed.