Churchill Downs announced today that Grammy-nominated recording artist Grace Potter will perform the national anthem at the 151st Kentucky Derby (G1) May 3 and record-breaking gymnast Simone Biles will announce "Rider's Up" ahead of the race.
The singer songwriter, who is set to release her new album "Medicine" later this spring, will take to the stage just after 5 p.m. EDT when her performance will be broadcast live as part of NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage.
"Grace Potter's soulful vocals have transcended genres for more than two decades, making her a fantastic choice to lead our fans in the stands and around the country in the national anthem at this year's Kentucky Derby," said Churchill Downs president Mike Anderson. "Her powerful stage presence and electrifying performances embody the spirit and spectacle of Derby Day, and we're thrilled for Grace to bring her powerhouse voice to Churchill Downs."
Grace Potter follows in the footsteps of legendary artists who have performed the national anthem for the famed race before her, including Wynonna Judd (2024), Carly Pearce (2023), Brittney Spencer (2022), Tori Kelly (2021), Jennifer Nettles (2019), Pentatonix (2018), Harry Connick Jr. (2017), Lady A (2016), Josh Groban (2015), Jo Dee Messina (2014), Martina McBride (2013), Mary J. Blige (2012), Jordin Sparks (2011), Rascal Flatts (2010), and LeAnn Rimes (2009).
Over the span of her career, Grace has received Grammy nominations for Best Rock Album, Best Rock Performance, and Best Country Duo/Group Performance, celebrating her incredible talent. In addition to the upcoming release of her album, Grace is set to join Chris Stapleton on tour in July.
Prior to Potter's rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" Saturday, one of the greatest athletes of all time, Simone Biles, will have the honor of serving as this year's Riders Up announcer. The most decorated gymnast in history with 41 medals across World Championships and the Olympic games, Biles holds the most World Championship medals (30) and gold medals (23) in gymnastics history.
A three-time Olympian, her 11 Olympic medals and seven Olympic gold medals are the most by a U.S. gymnast. The three-time Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year and Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year, she has earned the rare distinction of having five skills named in her honor—The Biles—in the beam, floor (two), and vault (two) disciplines.
Biles will be taking her legacy to the Kentucky Derby, where she will command all jockeys to mount their horses for the 151st running.
The weekend will begin Friday, May 2 when All-American National Champion gymnast Olivia Dunne instructs the Kentucky Oaks Riders Up, just ahead of NBC The Voice Season 23 winner Gina Miles' performance of the national anthem.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
