Cruguet Marks 35th Anniversary of Triple Crown as Celeb Handicapper for Derby Experiences

LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 11, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Jean Cruguet, celebrating the 35th anniversary of his historic Kentucky Derby victory aboard Seattle Slew, will return to Churchill Downs for the first Saturday in May this year to serve as celebrity handicapper for Derby Experiences.

The travel/experience program operated by Churchill Downs and its exclusive hospitality provider, QuintEvents, Derby Experiences (www.derbyexperiences.com) is in its fourth year of bringing visitors from around the world into Louisville for Derby Week activities, culminating with Friday's Kentucky Oaks and then the Kentucky Derby.  The program markets packages of travel, hotel, parties, hospitality, track access, paddock tours, regional attractions and other amenities for small and large groups and corporate customers, generating increased economic impact for Greater Louisville.

Cruguet will interact with and provide insights to guests on both Friday and Saturday at the track, offering tips and picks while visiting suites and other venues, including Millionaire's Row.

With less than one month to go before the first Saturday in May, Cruguet's watch list for the Derby includes:

• Union Rags – "A very good horse, one of the Derby favorites."
• Alpha – "My pick from last year the first time I saw him run and I have not changed my mind."
• Dullahan – "Talented on grass, could be even better on dirt."
• I'll Have Another – "He may be just right on Derby Day, as evidenced at Santa Anita. I like this horse."

On May 7th, 1977 - 35 years ago - Cruguet and Seattle Slew won the Kentucky Derby by 1-3/4 lengths over Run Dusty Run, launching a memorable run to the 10th Triple Crown in history. Cruguet and Slew had a spotless record heading into May that year and emerged as history's only undefeated Triple Crown winner after adding victories in the Preakness and Belmont Stakes.

"Jean Cruguet has a tremendous amount of accomplishment and credibility," stated  Brian Learst, President of QuintEvents.  "His presence will make the week special for our Derby Experiences guests and for everyone on hand for this year's events and races."

"The Kentucky Derby may be the top event in all of sports and entertainment," said Cruguet, who will make the trip from his small horse farm in Versailles, KY.  "It's special to be involved in an official capacity with Churchill Downs and Derby Experiences."

SOURCE QuintEvents