Be part of a Scream Team!

Race organizers are literally breaking out the bells and whistles with this crowd support promotion for the Kentucky Derby Festival’s road races. Organized cheering sections – known as “Scream Teams” – will be situated at six locations along the marathon route. The locales will feature bleacher seating and a DJ playing recorded music. Spectators will be provided with motivational devices to inspire the runners, including pompoms and kazoos. “Runners truly need all the support they can get,” said Deja Lawson, Derby Festival race director. “The goal is to have the Scream Teams do for certain Louisville neighborhoods what the crowds do in Chicago, New York and Boston. We hope the Scream Teams will go a long way toward providing that. We encourage neighbors and nearby businesses to have their employees come out and support these dedicated athletes. It’s amazing what a little vocal ‘pat on the back’ can do for a faltering runner.”

A big thanks to Kripsy Kreme Doughnuts for donating doughnuts to the teams morning of the race!