St. Joseph’s Home is coming to life in anticipation of the 21st annual Turtle Derby. Everywhere you look there are brightly colored Derby posters, raffle items and pastel t-shirts announcing our next big fundraiser. You thought Kentucky was famous for the Derby…wait until you attend your first Turtle Derby. For 18 years the St. Joseph’s Home in Louisville has been hosting the Turtle Derby. It is a favorite for everyone in our Home – and very well supported by the community. Sponsors are already lining up to name their turtles (Bowling Ball, Walter on the Run, Sweet Pea, G-Man).
Mary Ann Morgan, who coordinates the Turtle Derby, chuckles as she tells stories of grown men leaping up and down, cheering on a turtle that just won’t budge!
For years, the turtles used for the Derby were given to onlookers or set free around the grounds of our Home. Now, due to stricter laws, the turtles must be rented from and returned to a local pet store. However, the courtyard is full of reminders of the old ways. One cannot spend more than a few minutes outside without seeing a lazy turtle wander past. They have become our favorite mascots.
We hope you will join us on April 25th for the next big race. For more information, please see our calendar page.
Preparing for the Derby