Patrick Henry Hughes To Play 'Call To The Post' Before Woodford Reserve

Patrick Henry Hughes, whose story touched hearts around the country when his family was featured on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover Home Edition” last February, will return to the winner circle – this time the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle – to join track bugler Steve Buttleman in playing the “Call to the Post” prior to the Grade I Woodford Reserve Turf Classic on Kentucky Derby Day, May 3.

Hughes, 19, who was born without eyes or the ability to fully straighten his arms and legs, has never allowed his disability to get in the way of his goals. Although wheelchair-bound, Hughes is an active student at the University of Louisville who with his father’s help performs with the U of L School of Music Marching and Pep Band. And both Patrick Henry and his father, Patrick John Hughes, will be in the Churchill Downs infield with the U of L band when it performs “My Old Kentucky Home,” during the Kentucky Derby post parade.

Patrick Henry Hughes first performed the “Call to the Post” with Buttleman on Nov. 24, 2007, in Churchill Downs’ trackside winner’s circle. His encore performance will take place in the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle, which is used only for the Kentucky Derby winner’s trophy presentation and post-race celebration.

The Woodford Reserve Turf Classic (Kentucky Derby Day, RACE 9) is the race scheduled just prior to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands. Approximate post time for the Woodford Reserve is 4:52 p.m. EDT.

NOTE: Media members wishing to cover Hughes’ performance up close should already have the appropriate accreditation to be in the Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle. Media representatives without Kentucky Derby Winner’s Circle credentials can locate Hughes before or after his performance with members of the U of L Marching Band in the gated infield security compound located just behind the infield pagoda.