And They’re Off

Planning is well underway for Frederica Academy’s Derby Day signature fundraiser with Co-Chairs Elizabeth & Zach Powell and Dana & Denny Carter at the helm. Wheels that had ground to halt in 2020, due to restrictions on gatherings and safety concerns, started turning once again as soon as the announcement was made that the 2021 Kentucky Derby would be run at Churchill Downs on May 1. Everyone is excited that this fantastic Spring soirée will return albeit with some deviations from its normal format.

Sea Island’s Retreat Clubhouse will once again be the venue, but this year the entire event will take place outside on the lawn. Fortunately, presenting sponsor Beachview Event Rentals & Design is no stranger to providing tents and outdoor seating at Derby Day. They’ve been using their winning combination of expertise and style to “set the stage,” so to speak, for years.

Beginning when the doors open at 5:00 p.m. and you grab your first julep, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy delicious food prepared by the Sea Island culinary team, the always exciting simulcast of the Kentucky Derby, and entertainment by Mason Waters & the Groove AllStars. Mason will also emcee the live auction which will be held as usual during the event and will feature the one-of-a-kind experiences and trips that always spark lively bidding competition. Out of an abundance of caution, there will be no dance floor or post-race band party, but that won’t put a damper on the fun! The silent auction featuring art, jewelry, fabulous gift baskets and more will still be held, but you’ll be browsing the items through an online bidding platform. No app download is required; however, patrons will need a smartphone at the event to view and bid on auction

items. Raffle tickets will also be sold via the online auction site. The live auction will only take place online in the event that COVID-19 or inclement weather conditions cancel the planned activities at Retreat.

The biggest difference this year is that individual tickets to Derby Day will not be sold. Event tickets are limited due to COVID-19 restrictions instituted by Sea Island in accordance with the Governor’s orders and will only be available through sponsorship packages. Patrons will be able to purchase sponsorships and raffle tickets, as well as view and bid on auction items online. Sponsors will be recognized on the auction website, which replaces the traditional printed event program.

Derby Day is a time-honored Frederica Academy tradition and the funds it generates through sponsorships and auctions make an important difference in the school’s ability to provide critical support for Frederica’s extraordinary students and dedicated teachers. Your help in that endeavor is needed now more than ever. For more information and information about sponsorship, visit fredericaacademy.org

600 Sea Island Road St. Simons Island 912-634-8084 Monday-Saturday 10 - 5:30 www.cloistercollection.com