The start of spring signals the approach of one of the most exciting times of year here in Kentucky, the Kentucky Derby Festival. The Festival celebrates the Derby and all it brings to our state. Living just outside of Louisville in Oldham County, I’ve seen how the rich history and culture of the event is celebrated by our community, and our company.
In fact, for decades AT&T has played a part in providing connectivity for the Derby, not just on the ground for spectators and attendees, but also the connectivity needed to show the rest of the world what Kentucky and the Derby is all about.
This year, we have been designated the preferred fiber internet sponsor for the 2023 Kentucky Derby
Over the course of the nearly two weeks of festivities, along with the race itself, the power of connectivity is on display. At the track alone, we’ve deployed fiber throughout the facility, connecting broadcast facilities, suites and a robust Distributed Antenna System (DAS) to assure an outstanding wireless experience for the more than 150,000 race fans – many of whom will post and share photos and videos throughout the day, and as the horses flash under the wire.
- Last year, over the two-day Derby weekend, our wireless network handled nearly 21 terabytes of data and nearly 570,000 voice calls from customers at or around the track. 21 terabytes are the equivalent of downloading the most exciting 2 minutes of sports more than 190,000 times!
For 30 years, our signature engagement has been the AT&T Derby Festival Morning Line. This event brings together radio stations from across Kentucky and neighboring states for two mornings of live programming featuring interviews with dozens of state and local leaders and influencers. This year, participants include the Kentucky Governor and Lt. Governor, as well as the Mayor of Louisville. 12 stations – covering approximately 20 markets in Kentucky, Alabama and Tennessee – use AT&T Fiber circuits to carry their morning shows live from a special broadcast center at the Kentucky Derby Museum back to their hometown listeners.
Supporting this historical event each year is just one way we’re committed to bringing more connectivity to the Bluegrass State. At almost this exact time last year, Oldham County, Kentucky, which is just outside Louisville, selected AT&T to build a state-of-the-art fiber network to deliver high-speed internet to more than 20,000 households and businesses throughout the county. Upon completion of the $33 million project, every home and small business in the county will have access to AT&T Fiber.
Whether it’s the annual Kentucky Derby Festival in Louisville or an average day in Oldham County, we’re committed to bringing more connectivity and more possibility to more Kentuckians.
