So as a loyal runner of this race since 2011, the organizers need to get things back on track. Consistently from 2014 to 2016 the race was capped at 18,000 and there was an awesome buzz around the region for this race. However, the last several years has seen attendance drop to a number around 12,000 this year.

I’m talking to several running friends of mine from around the country, they agree that the race swag has gotten pretty terrible as of late. ASICS and new balance both have had their turn sponsoring this race and the shirts used to be top notch. If you ran this race last year you probably noticed that last years tech shirt was sub par. Many runners were disappointed at the quality of the shirt and let the derby festival know on the post race survey.

This year they decided to ditch tech shirts all together and go with a 3/4 cotton t shirt. What were they thinking. You can’t even wear this shirt to run in. The YMCA had the exact same shirt for their turkey trot 2 years ago.

As much as the KDF staff travels and promotes this race, they should be ashamed at their choice for this years shirt as well. Word gets around and people will not come here and run if they don’t get good gear at the expo.

I did have the opportunity to address one of the KDF officials at the expo “he was in a pink sport coat.” I addressed my concerns with he and he said they are a victim of their own greed. He stated we ran ASICS off because we wanted them to give us more money. That’s how new balance bolted after two years as well.

The Kentucky derby festival needs to re-invent themselves to make this race a success again.