Spectator Information

Be part of a Scream Team!

Race organizers are literally breaking out the bells and whistles with this crowd support promotion for the Kentucky Derby Festival’s road races. Organized cheering sections – known as “Scream Teams” – will be situated at six locations along the marathon route. The locales will feature bleacher seating, a DJ playing recorded music and a tented area offering complimentary snacks and beverages. Spectators will be provided with motivational devices to inspire the runners, including the popular plastic ‘cheer sticks’. “Runners truly need all the support they can get,” said Chad Pickering, Derby Festival race director. “The goal is to have the Scream Teams do for certain Louisville neighborhoods what the crowds do in Chicago, New York and Boston. We hope the Scream Teams will go a long way toward providing that. We encourage neighbors and nearby businesses to have their employees come out and support these dedicated athletes. It’s amazing what a little vocal ‘pat on the back’ can do for a faltering runner.”

2012 Scream Team Locations:

-  4th Street and Park Ave

-  3rd and Central Ave

-  Southern Parkway and Woodlawn Ave

-  Breckinridge St. and Brook St.

-  Baxter Ave. and Bardstown Road