20th Annual Kentucky Derby Celebration

The Monmouth Park Charity Fund’s 20th Annual Kentucky Derby Celebration brought together community spirit, high fashion, and heartwarming generosity for an unforgettable day of racing and philanthropy.

Co-Chairs of the Kentucky Derby, Maureen Lloyd, MPCF Co-President, and Ann Mohamadi, MPCF Board Member, commented, “This year we had the privilege to honor Robert C. Garrett, CEO, along with the dedicated team at Hackensack Meridian Health—New Jersey’s largest healthcare network. Under Bob’s leadership, HMH has made outstanding contributions to creating a healthcare system rooted in compassion and a deep commitment to the communities they serve. Thank you, Hackensack Meridian Health, for your support in sponsoring our Kentucky Derby Party 2025!”

Over 400 guests, dressed in vibrant hats and festive attire, came together for what many locals proudly call “Monmouth County’s Fundraising Party of the Year.” Held on Saturday, May 3rd in the picturesque Blu Grotto Outdoor Garden at Monmouth Park Racetrack in Oceanport, NJ, the event was nothing short of spectacular.

Attendees enjoyed an elegant evening filled with engaging entertainment and refined charm. A live band set the tone, while guests cheered on the Kentucky Derby simulcast and placed bets. An open bar and signature Mint Julep station kept the celebration flowing. The night also featured a fun-filled hat parade and contest, a roaming photo booth for capturing memories, delicious hors d’oeuvres and dinner, and a friendly horseshoe tournament.

Guiding the evening’s program was Thomas Hayes, MPCF Honorary Board Member and Capital Campaign Director at Mercy Center, who emceed the festivities, including the exciting live auction. One of the highlights of the evening was when the Monmouth Park Charity Fund was surprised with a generous $250,000 pledge to the organization, leaving guests in awe and adding a heartfelt highlight to an already unforgettable evening. There were so many incredible contributions made throughout the evening, including an additional $10,000 donation by our Finish Line Sponsor, Carol Stillwell, of Stillwell-Hansen, Inc.

A special tribute was paid to our honored Veterans—many of whom were sponsored guests—through a stirring National Anthem performance by Valentina Roselle and an invocation by Pastor Chris Durkin. Musical entertainment for the evening was delivered by the dynamic Spicy Poblanos Acoustic Trio, whose lively performance added energy to the celebration. With creativity on full display, judges Silvana Buckley, Linda Sirico, and Tom Sirico had the delightful yet difficult role of selecting the top contenders in the Hat Parade & Contest.

The Monmouth Park Charity Fund extends heartfelt thanks to the incredible Kentucky Derby Committee, dedicated Board Members, and—most importantly—the wonderful guests, whom all made the day truly special!