Year 11 of the Winner's Circle: the Alphas of Atlanta build on their community impact via the #AlphaDerbyWeekend
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Since its inaugural effort in 2015, the #AlphaDerbyWeekend via the Alphas of Atlanta is one of the key events of its kind nationally.
Yes, we said nationally.
The Kentucky Derby themed event has evolved from a 2-day event (2015-16) to a 3-day event (2017-19) and eventually adding a golf tournament component (2021) to being one of the most prestigious events outside the actual Kentucky Derby in Louisville, KY. Given larger corporate partnerships which includes the likes of (but not limited to) Woodford Reserve, the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby exclusively served at Churchill Downs, Anheuser-Busch, Viiv Healthcare, Thrivent, Hideoki, and Morningline (along with other businesses across the board), the foundation is expanding their reach in having their signature event serve as a catalyst for leaving a positive footprint across Metro-Atlanta.
This year (April 30-May 3, 2026), the unofficial start of the weekend actually takes place on April 29th thanks to a happy hour and networking event via one of their newest partners, the Vick at Healy. Another "startup" event takes place on April 30th as the organizers host a meet and greet with their sponsors/partners at the Grand Hyatt Buckhead which includes a bourbon tasting via The Whisky Knights along with networking and business engagement with those in attendance.
Friday (May 1, 2026) is the first full day for the general public. The day gets started at the Alphas of Atlanta Open, their golf tournament taking place at Chapel Hills Golf Course in Douglasville, GA. With 1/3 of the players/teams comprised of women, it sets a positive tone to start of the weekend's festivities. For Friday evening, the event shifts to Guardian Works for the kickoff party and concert presented by Cutwater. The headliner is Platinum recording artist Jon B, as the evening sets the state for a "Ladies' Night" and date-night theme for those in attendance.
On Saturday (May 2, 2026), the activity returns to Guardian Works for the main event/watch party. Complimented by appearances from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta City Councilman Byron Amos, Conyers City Councilwoman Sherri Washington, and Newton County Commissioner Demond Mason, the event has a positive energy and vibe with the viewing of the race and the all-important hat contest.
To conclude the weekend, the Unity Brunch (May 3, 2026 at the Grand Hyatt Buckhead) serves as the setting and soundtrack for Sunday. The highlight of the day truly is the "why" behind the event, as the weekend proceeds support the foundation's grant program. As a result, an additional 6 nonprofits whose work ranges from educational programming, leadership development, and health and wellness programs, are awarded funding support for their community centered efforts. They include the following nonprofits:
A weekend full of festivity ranging from the networking, time on the golf course, enjoying a concert, partaking of the race, and concluding with a brunch to get back to the epicenter of the event in the first place. It's said you can have a party with a purpose and in this instance, making efforts to leave a positive footprint across the Metro-Atlanta area is what the Winner's Circle is all about.
April 29-May 2, 2027 can't come soon enough.
Notes: All photos are via asnortonccs and EmoryRose Photography. You may visit our video playlist (click here) for more snapshots of the event. For those who would like to make a donation, you may do so online (click HERE for information).
Likewise, you are encouraged to visit the website for the #AlphaDerbyWeekend (click HERE) to learn more about the event.
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