Race for Grace 2025 with Keynote Speaker Jockey Brian Hernandez
On April 28, 2025, the 2024 Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby winning jockey, Brian Hernandez Jr. was introduced by renowned horse trainer, Kenny McPeek, and interviewed by the one and only legendary Hall of Fame jockey, Pat Day, during the 2025 Race for Grace gala.
Race for Grace 2025 At the Podium
While Brian was the "headliner" we were thrilled to have Lead Chaplain Pavel Urruchi as our Emcee. Originally from Lima, Peru, Pavel's journey has taken him across various U.S. states, leading him to Kentucky. His hear immediately resonated with the ministry's mission once introduced to KRTC, and after visiting the track, he knew God was calling him to share the love of Christ through word and deed with the backside community.
Pat Day served as our interviewer for the evening. Pat is a Hall of Fame Jockey, who won the Kentucky Derby on Lil E. Tee in 1992. He retired in 2005 and has served as an industry representative and ambassador for the KY Race Track Chaplaincy. He now divides his time enjoying his family and home and spreading the Gospel at tracks, colleges, and churches worldwide.
We were greatly honored to have Tony Estes, Board President of Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy, welcome the crowd of about 525 people in attendance and introduce the Chaplaincy staff members.
Steve Buttleman is the bugler for Churchill Downs and we are so grateful to him for providing kicking off the gala with The Call to Post with a little "My Old Kentucky Home" and always being willing to have his picture taken with any guest who asks!
During the auction preview, prior to the program, the Sacred Heart Academy's Madrigal Choir enriched the mood with Kentucky-themed songs with their glorious voices.
Ryan Mahan served once again as our Auctioneer. Ryan grew up at the racetrack, helping his stepfather, a veterinarian, perform surgery on racehorses. He now conducts horse auctions for companies like Keeneland Thoroughbred Racing & Sales and the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co., two major U.S. auction houses of thoroughbred horses in the U.S.
Please enjoy photos from the 2025 gala provided by Bill Wine of Churchill Downs Inc. and Jenny Doyle of PhotoStable. Thank you for your time and talent!!!
