Kentucky Derby 2011: TROTT to Santa Anita Park to Watch the Big Race

Though Arcadia is some 2,000 miles away from Louisville, site of Saturday’s 137th Kentucky Derby, local race fans will still get a chance to be close to this weekend’s action thanks to .

The nonprofit organization TROTT (Training Racehorses Off The Track) will be hosting a party at the Great Race Place’s Club Plaza Terrace Room starting at noon Saturday. The party, hosted by actor Luke Perry, will feature a buffet and auction, and there will also be a handicapper on site to offer betting tips to rookie bettors.

Auction items include the halter worn by 2010 Kentucky Derby winner Super Saver; a large Santa Anita Seabiscuit banner, signed by numerous jockeys, celebrating the 75th anniversary;  the signed and numbered goggles worn by jockey Mike Smith in Zenyatta’s 18th win; and many more.

The expected post time for the Kentucky Derby is 3:24 p.m. NBC will be providing comprehensive television coverage.

TROTT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing retiring racehorses with opportunities for new careers beyond the track. Tickets to Saturday's events are $50 and can be purchased by clicking here.