NASA Astronaut and Pat Day Visit

The Kentucky Derby Museum was honored to host a special tour for former NASA space shuttle astronaut Dr. David Hilmers. Dr. Hilmers was a part of four trips to space, including one aboard the Discovery shuttle in 1990, NASA’s first mission following the Challenger disaster in 1986.

With an impressive background in both academics and sports, Dr. Hilmers is an engineer, aviator, physician and a fan of horse racing! (Read more of his amazing career here.)

The Museum worked with Dr. Hilmers to create a one-of-kind visit that included a special tour of the backside with legendary jockey, Pat Day. Dr. Hilmers and his group enjoyed getting up close and personal with some of the trainers and horses, including William “Jinks” Fires. Check out some of the photos of the day below!