Every year, hundreds of thousands of people will make the trek to Churchill Downs for the annual running of the Kentucky Derby. Millions more will be watching the festivities from the comfort of home or at a local watch party. For those locally who are eager to celebrate, there is one location in South Jersey dedicated to the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.
Located inside Stainton’s in Ocean City, It’s My Derby carries all the essentials for your race day experience, including the Flavor of Derby, from the mint julep mix to bourbon-infused sauces to gourmet spice and specialty products straight from Woodford Reserve. The shop even has a wide selection of memorabilia, including mint julep glasses and autographed memorabilia, even signed prints by legendary jockey Ron Turcotte, perfect for the ultimate Derby aficionados.
Owner Michael Yanniello, also known as “Derby Mike”, travels to Louisville every year for the annual Run for the Roses and brings back with him a wealth of knowledge and information. “The majority of people tell me that the Kentucky Derby is on their bucket list, and there’s no right way or wrong way to do the Derby,” Yanniello says. “There are no two Derby’s alike, even if you went to one Derby and you’re going to repeat it or have a different experience.”
Yanniello grew up in Mays Landing, where he discovered his for horse racing. At the age of 8, he joined their ‘Morning Glory’ program where he learned about horses and how to care for them. By the age of 14, ‘Derby Mike’ began working the concession stand at the racecourse and became familiar with the culture and excitement of horse racing.
For many years, Yanniello’s storefront in Ocean City even carried a life-size replica of Secretariat, the famed record-breaking racehorse that won the 1973 Kentucky Derby. According to Yanniello, the renowned horse has not traveled far. “He has found a permanent home up at a different co-op in Medford.”
Nearby at the Flanders Hotel, the staff at St. Augustine Prep are preparing for their annual Run for the Roses fundraiser. Christina Faulk, Director of Advancement Events and Donor Relations, says they are anticipating up to 250 guests for this year’s event, which will include photo-ops with a live thoroughbred horse. “We encourage people to dress the part when they come to the event.”
Whether you are new to the Derby experience or preparing for your triple crown-viewing experience, It’s My Derby has what you need to kick-off the festivities. “Up and down the coast, every country club is housing some kind of derby party; everybody’s participating in one way or another.”
It’s My Derby is located inside Stainton’s at 810 Asbury Avenue and Stainton’s by the Sea at 1216 Boardwalk in Ocean City. For questions or additional information, you can reach Derby Mike at itsmyderby@gmail.com.
