Kentucky

Kentucky native Wynonna Judd to perform national anthem at 150th Kentucky Derby

Published

2 years ago

April 12, 2024

Kentucky native Wynonna Judd to perform national anthem at 150th Kentucky Derby

Five-time Grammy award-winner and Kentucky native Wynonna Judd will perform the national anthem at Churchill Downs Racetrack during the 150th Kentucky Derby, presented by Woodford Reserve on Saturday, May 4.

“I am so proud to represent my home state, taking part in one of the most storied and iconic traditions,” she said. “The Kentucky Derby is something I look forward to every year and being able to perform this year makes the momentous event even more special.”

The country music icon will help kick off the historic Run for the Roses with her performance of the “Star Spangled Banner” just after 5 p.m. As is tradition, the national anthem at Churchill Downs will be broadcast live as part of NBC’s Kentucky Derby coverage, expected to reach millions of viewers worldwide.

Wynonna rose to fame as one-half of “The Judds” with her mother Naomi, and the two are recognized as one of the greatest duos in country music history. Born in Ashland, Kentucky, Wynonna earned five Grammy Awards as one half of “The Judds.“ The Kentucky crooner has continued her success as a solo artist, releasing eight studio albums and recently embarked on a nationwide tour called “Back to Wy” to pay tribute to her first two solo albums.

“Wynonna Judd is a multigenerational talent who has helped shape country music over the years, and a Kentucky native, making her the perfect artist to set the stage for this once-in-a-lifetime Kentucky Derby,” Mike Anderson, president of Churchill Downs Racetrack, said in a news release. “We’re excited for Wynonna to bring her powerful voice back to Louisville to convey the wide range of emotion for which this landmark occasion calls.”

The country music superstar joins a roster of accomplished artists who have performed the “Star-Spangled Banner” at the Run for the Roses including 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).

Continuing the celebration surrounding the 150th Kentucky Derby, this year’s Riders Up announcer will be lifestyle innovator and entrepreneur Martha Stewart. Stewart will issue the command to jockeys before the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby.

Churchill Downs Racetrack is also partnering with Stewart, to create the “Kentucky Derby At-Home” experience ahead of the 150th Kentucky Derby.

Reach features reporter Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com.

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Kentucky

Northern Kentucky claims 4 titles at Class 3A indoor track state meet

Published

12 hours ago

March 5, 2026

Press Room

Northern Kentucky claims 4 titles at Class 3A indoor track state meet

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association indoor state track meet rolled on on Wednesday, March 4. One day after Beechwood claimed the Class 1A boys team title, three Northern Kentucky big schools combined for four individual state titles in Class 3A.

Cooper’s Paul Van Laningham won the 3,200-meter run in 9:09.49 and took second place in the 1,600-meter run in 4:07.88. It was a reversal of his results at the 2025 indoor state meet and earned him his fifth overall state title. He scored all of Cooper’s points, good for ninth place in the team standings with 18 points.

Van Laningham’s teammate, Ava Dunn, got the day started with a shot put title, throwing the 8.82-pound ball 39 feet, 3.25 inches.

Simon Kenton’s Alexis Howard won the long jump with an attempt of 18 feet, 7.25 inches, then claimed the triple jump title with a distance of 37 feet, 4.25 inches. It is her second straight indoor long jump title and third overall as she also claimed the 2024 outdoor title. Taking fifth place in the 55-meter dash, she scored all 24 points for SK, finishing in a tie for eighth place. Cooper was right behind with 22 points.

Finally, Conner’s Avery Vanlandingham win the 800-meter run in 2:17.55, out-leaning North Oldham’s Millie Huang at the line.

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Kentucky

Arkansas women’s basketball blown out by Kentucky in season-ending loss at SEC Tournament | Whole Hog Sports

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24 hours ago

March 4, 2026

Press Room

Arkansas women’s basketball blown out by Kentucky in season-ending loss at SEC Tournament | Whole Hog Sports

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Kentucky

Hardley Gilmore returns to Kentucky Football

Published

2 days ago

March 3, 2026

Press Room

Hardley Gilmore returns to Kentucky Football

A wide receiver from Belle Glade, Florida, Gilmore totaled 28 receptions for 313 yards and one touchdown for the Wildcats during the 2025 season. The 6-foot-1 sophomore has had a very interesting offseason as he entered the portal, flipped a commitment, and is now back in Lexington.

After the 2025 season, Gilmore committed to Louisville when he entered the transfer portal, then flipped his commitment to Baylor, and ultimately signed with the Bears. To end Gilmore’s portal saga, he’s now back in a familiar place with the Wildcats.

When the 2026 season begins, Gilmore will have two years of eligibility remaining.

Gilmore had a solid sophomore campaign with the Wildcats, appearing in all 12 games. His best game of the season came in the late-season loss against Vanderbilt. He tallied six catches for 55 yards in the game.

With Kentucky losing most of its wide receiver production from last season, this is a significant pickup, and it won’t be surprising if Gilmore is back in the starting lineup this fall.

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