Run for the Roses

Go Red Gala channels Kentucky Derby 

This year’s Go Red Gala won’t be the typical luncheon—instead, the American Heart Association is renting the Civic Center for a night at the Kentucky Derby … in Minnesota.

May 4 is the day before the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports, so naturally, it’s a great time to recreate the southern festivities in Rochester.

"We have the most wonderful causes and fantastic events for each of them in Rochester," says Sara Clausen, a regional director for the American Heart Association. "That’s why we wanted to do something different."

In years past, the Go Red luncheon was well-attended, but professionals—many of them in medicine—had trouble taking time off work to attend.

"Come learn about heart disease, which affects everyone and is 80 percent avoidable," Clausen says. "It’s really a unique opportunity for Rochester."

Not everything’s changing. The Open Your Heart donations will still be the main fundraiser at the gala. Clausen’s augmenting it with lawn games, traditional derby decor, and catering by Pinnacle Catering and the Civic Center.

Here’s a rundown of the Kentucky Derby staples you’ll find at this year’s Go Red Gala:

The Hats:Wear your heart on your … brim? You should definitely still dress in red for this Gala. Raise awareness for heart disease and match the horses’ rose garlands all at once! However, you might be a little less prepared for one classic derby convention: the hat. While you can certainly shop ahead for something showstopping, consider grabbing a hat at the gala. Clausen says she found a bunch of plain, black derby hats on sale, which she and the rest of the team will jazz up in fine style before the event. "I foresee a lot of red on them," she says. "We have jeweled brooches, ribbons, and scarves."

The Drink:Super Bowl and beer, New Year’s and champagne, date nights and wine… some events are better faced with a special drink in hand. At the derby, that drink is a Mint Julep. The best cocktails use real Kentucky bourbon. Sip one as you hobnob with the other viewers. Mmm, refreshing.

And, of course, The Race: Nothing’s been finalized, but Clausen is looking for a way to hold a virtual horse race at the Civic Center. Bring some cash for a ticket, and cheer for your favorite courser!

{{tncms-inline alignment="left" content="<p>The 2018 Go Red Gala begins at 4:30 p.m. on May 4 at the Mayo Civic Center. Tickets are $75 online at ahanationalchapter164.ejoinme.org. Sales will end about two days before the event—and you’ll need time to plan your derby attire, as well—so grab one soon!</p>" id="b6b9a392-2d61-4067-aa34-76ff1edf0b2b" style-type="question" title=" " type="relcontent" width="full"}}

The 2018 Go Red Gala begins at 4:30 p.m. on May 4 at the Mayo Civic Center. Tickets are $75 online at ahanationalchapter164.ejoinme.org. Sales will end about two days before the event—and you’ll need time to plan your derby attire, as well—so grab one soon!