Video game publisher and developer Cygames, Inc. (HQ: Shibuya, Tokyo; President: Koichi Watanabe, hereinafter referred to as "Cygames") has partnered with Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”), home of the Kentucky Derby®, to become a sponsor at the 151st Kentucky Derby. As part of the sponsorship agreement, the Unbridled Sidney Stakes Presented by Cygames will be held on Kentucky Oaks Day, Friday, May 2 (ET).

In addition, on May 2 and 3, Cygames will have an on-site activation where visitors can play video game demos and take photos.

What is the Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby® is an American horse race run by three-year-old thoroughbreds, and the first of three events comprising the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. The event boasts a storied history dating back to 1875 and is the most watched horse racing event in North America, earning it the reputation of being "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®." Additionally, Derby Week, held in the same week as the Kentucky Derby, features the prestigious Kentucky Oaks, a race for three-year-old fillies that has run for 150 years, among other races and events.

Unbridled Sidney Stakes Presented by Cygames to be Held on May 2

On Kentucky Oaks Day, held Friday, May 2, Cygames will sponsor the Unbridled Sidney Stakes. During the event, Cygames’ logo will be featured on the starting gate, saddle towels of the contending horses, and signage at the finish line.

The Unbridled Sidney Stakes is a 1,100-meter (5 1/2 furlong) Grade III race for fillies and mares aged three and older. It features a purse worth $400,000 (USD).

Play Games and Take Photos at the Cygames Booth in the Infield

As part of the infield experience on Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3, Cygames will feature demos of various Cygames titles including Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond, Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising, Granblue Fantasy: Relink, and Umamusume: Pretty Derby. A 360-degree panoramic photo spot will also be set up for visitors to take photos.

The playable titles at the venue.

A Message from Koichi Watanabe, President of Cygames

The Kentucky Derby has a long and prestigious history as the first of the races that make up the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, and I consider it a great joy for Cygames to be a sponsor. My hope is that, through our partnership, we can provide an opportunity for potential fans to get to know Cygames and its content.