Tickets for Saturday’s Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY, have always been a hot commodity, and even in a sluggish economy ticket prices continue to go through the roof. Known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” the racing event typically draws about 155,000 fans.
Last year on TicketsNow.com, Derby tickets were the 10th hottest ticket, averaging $817.06. This year, prices range from a $38 general admission ticket to $31,030 for a two-day VIP package that includes eight seats in a covered box on the finish line. The same package is going for $28,000 on TicketLiquidator.com, where single tickets were starting at $156.
On StubHub.com, a day before race day, all-inclusive package tickets had sold for $1,465-$2,495 before selling out; single tickets were priced from $211-$5,001.
The enduring popularity of the race has led to the signing of its first corporate sponsor. In 2006, Yum! Brands signed a five-year presenting sponsor pact worth millions.
(The image accompanying this story is from KentuckyDerby.info)
