Prep Talk

Annual Fundraiser Run for the Roses Has Biggest Success Ever With Return Indoors

Posted May 15th, 2022

By: Connor Bogan ’24

Each year, Saint Augustine Prep holds its annual Run for the Roses fundraiser to celebrate the famous Kentucky Derby horse race. Hermit families and friends gather for a fun night of wild outfits, amazing food, gift basket raffles, and an auction with eye-popping selections. On May 7th, Run for the Roses 2022 took place. Last year, Run for the Roses took place outside on campus, but the fundraiser made its return indoors to the Rodio Gym this year. This was probably the most successful one to date, with around 400 people in attendance and nearly 50 occupied tables. Along with a record number of people, many of our Hermit students volunteered their time to assist in making the event run smoothly. Complete with beautiful decorations and lighting, music performances by the Hermits Quartet led by Ms. Newnam, and the Derby itself watched by everyone on a huge projector, the night was lovely and one to remember.

As guests started to fill the Buondonno Forum at around 5pm, they were greeted by live music performances and colorful decorations themed around the Derby. Even the check-in station was themed around a horse stable. When entering the Rodio Gym, guests made their way to their respective tables and were treated to a buffet-style food selection prepared by the Prep’s dining staff. Father Murray kicked off the evening with an opening address and prayer, and guests talked amongst themselves until 7pm when the Derby began. This year, horse number twenty-one, Rich Strike, came from behind in an upset victory. The race was followed by a gift-basket raffle directed by Mrs. Enos. Afterwards, a lively auction was led by Coach Rodio and Mr. Towell with items donated by Prep families and patrons. A few of these items included a five-night trip to Atlantis, Philadelphia Sports tickets, and front-row seats at this year’s graduation. 

The Prep would like to thank our student volunteers, dining staff, faculty, and other supporting families and patrons for making this event a memorable one. Without the help of these individuals, Run for the Roses would not have been possible. Run for the Roses has always been the Prep’s staple fundraiser, and we hope it will continue to grow and be successful for years to come.