LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) -Churchill Downs announced which singer-songwriter will perform the National Anthem, along with the Olympic gymnast presenting the Riders Up at the 151st Kentucky Derby.
Grace Potter, who is set to release her new album “Medicine” later this spring, will take to the stage just after 5 p.m. and perform the national anthem on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
“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 Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack. “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.”
Before Potter’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner”, one of the greatest athletes of all time, Simone Biles, will serve as this year’s Riders Up announcer. Biles is 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 US gymnast.
All-American National Champion gymnast Olivia Dunne will instruct the Kentucky Oaks Riders Up, ahead of NBC’s The Voice Season 23 winner, Gina Miles’ performance of the national anthem.
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