Official Kentucky Derby print chosen

Art Business News, April, 2005

LOUISVILLE, KY -- The Kentucky Derby oil painting by the legendary American sports artist Bart Forbes has been selected as the official licensed print to commemorate the lOth anniversary season of the prestigious "Art of the Kentucky Derby" series. The 131st running of the Kentucky Derby, considered to be America's greatest race since 1875, takes place on arguably the world's most legendary racetrack, Churchill Downs, on May 7. The image features key elements of the Kentucky Derby traditions, including thoroughbreds in full stride, the esteemed Twin Spires of Churchill Downs and a multitude of onlookers in the historic clubhouse and infield. The piece was first unveiled to the public in early November in the new Silks lounge in the rebuilt clubhouse at Churchill Downs.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to create this painting for the Kentucky Derby, which is clearly one of the top four or five sporting events in the world today" says Forbes. "The Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs are the pinnacle of horse racing and I am thrilled to have a small part in [the] event. I hope the image created to commemorate the race is one that people will enjoy."

The official Kentucky Derby artwork by Forbes was commissioned by JettSport, Inc., a Louisville, KY-based sport and event graphics company, which is in its fifth year as the official licensee for Churchill Downs' 10-year-old "Art of the Kentucky Derby" series. Additional artists who have been previously commissioned by JettSport for the "Art of Kentucky Derby" series include Francis Livingston, 2004; Laura Smith, 2003; Gary Kelley, 2002; and Tony Bennett, 2001.

Recognized as one of the leading sports artists, Forbes has painted prints for the Boston Marathon, Indianapolis 500, The Americas Cup, as well as PGA events such as the Ryder Cup, The Players' Championship and the Seniors Tour. He has also created paintings that were featured on official posters for the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games. For more information, visit www.bartforbes.com or www.derbyartgifts.com. ABN