Starboard to host Kentucky Derby broomstick racing

The Starboard Restaurant in Dewey Beach has created a new event to rival its others like the Running of the Bull, Dewey Goes Pink and the Big Wheel Races.

The inaugural broomstick horse Starboard Derby Run will debut Saturday, May 6 in full Kentucky Derby theme.

“We wanted to bring horse racing to the public in a new, fun way,” said Bob Rindfuss, State Manager for Beam Suntory, who developed the event in partnership with The Starboard. "It’s always a great time to get dressed up, so we are encouraging everyone to wear formal Kentucky Derby attire – seersucker, big hats, and bowties.”

A pre-race party will begin with mint juleps provided by event sponsor, Maker’s Mark.

The run will begin around 4 p.m. as participants race broomstick horses around the block. The Starboard will award hefty prizes in the form of Starboard gift cards. First prize winner will snag a $500 gift card, second prize earns a $250 gift card, and third prize takes home a $100 gift card.

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The event will also include giveaways, including Starboard Derby Run Under Armour T-shirts, and Starboard Derby Run rocks glasses dipped in the iconic Maker’s Mark red wax. Maker’s Mark mint juleps ($4) will be served in a commemorative Starboard Derby Run metal pint glass to keep.

“We’re all about having a good time,” said Steve “Monty” Montgomery, owner of The Starboard.

Montgomery hopes to turn the event into another fun Dewey Beach tradition.

Following the run, the 143rd Kentucky Derby will be shown at The Starboard.

Kristen and The Noise will keep the party going beginning at 9:30 p.m.

So get your frilly hat on, pop that collar, and come and enjoy some Derby-style silliness.

The event is free and all weekend $4 Maker’s Mark shots and drinks will be on special.

For more information visit www.thestarboard.com.