YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – For Phantom Fireworks and the Zoldan family, the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby could end with a bang.
The company and the Zoldan family are part of the ownership group behind The Puma, which will start from the ninth post position in Saturday’s race at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. As of Tuesday evening, The Puma is a favorite to win.
For the Zoldan family, the Kentucky Derby represents more than just a sporting event – it’s a symbol of American tradition, energy and spectacle, according to a company news release. This year, that symbolism carries even greater meaning as the country approaches its 250th anniversary.
“It really feels like this is where it all begins,” said Bruce Zoldan, owner and CEO of Phantom Fireworks. “The Kentucky Derby kicks things off, and from there it builds all the way to the Fourth of July. It’s that same energy, that same excitement and the perfect way to start celebrating America’s 250th.”
The Zoldan family has prior ties to Kentucky Derby success. Bruce Zoldan was a partner in Team Valor International, the ownership group behind Animal Kingdom, which won the first leg of the Triple Crown in 2011.
“This is what America is all about – tradition, excitement and coming together to celebrate,” Zoldan said. “As we look ahead to America’s 250th birthday, being part of an event as iconic as the Kentucky Derby feels like the perfect way to honor that spirit.”
Saturday’s race will air on NBC. The post time is 6:57 p.m.
Pictured at top: The Puma runs in a previous race. (Photo via Phantom Fireworks)