The Race Is On Friday, April 29th 2011!

The Lakeland Derby is an annual “Derby Style” event staged on beautiful Lake Mirror in downtown Lakeland. With the entertaining flair of the event and the competitive spirit of the race, the Derby again promises to be a memorable occasion in 2011. Adding to the excitement, the Derby is scheduled on Friday, April 29th, 2011, just one week prior to the Kentucky Derby.

The Lakeland Derby captures the thrill of a race and the purity of sports entertainment in a hometown setting. The true essence of the Derby is the reward of knowing the proceeds will support Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine, a vital local charity.

The Derby features ten beautifully hand-crafted swan paddleboats in a thrilling race to the finish line. Each swan will have an owner/breeder who will designate and train their own jockeys to compete for the prestigious annual Lakeland Derby Trophy. In the chance of a photo finish, The Lakeland Derby Committee will offer two first place trophies to the winners.

Schedule of Events

5:30 PM    Concessions/Super Ticket/Derby Raffle Opens

VIP Clubhouse Opens

Children's Activities/Hat Contest Begins

6:15 PM    Call to the Post

Race 1 - Maiden Handicap

6:45 PM    Race 2 - Celebrity Dash

7:05 PM    Introduction of Owners and Jockeys

7:15 PM    Presentation of Colors/National Anthem

7:20 PM    Parade to the Post

7:30 PM    Race 3 - The Lakeland Derby

7:55 PM    Grand Awards to Owners and Race Winners

8:15 PM    Live Entertainment

9:30 PM    Fireworks