In the 27 years sinceSteve Buttleman won the audition to become Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby's official bugler, the native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa has become one of the most recognizable figures at the historic racetrack. He starts each race day playing the National Anthem and performs "Call To Post" before every race.He is also the official bugler at Keeneland Racetrack in Lexington and performs at hundreds of special events throughout the year across Kentucky.
The Courier Journal had a chance to sit down with him before the Kentucky Derby to ask him six fast questions about his iconic job.
What's the most underrated part of your job?
Steve Buttleman: How difficult it is because if I play it right, it sounds easy.
An office with a view: How Steve Buttleman landed the job as Churchill Downs' bugler
What drew you to this position? What makes you stay?
Buttleman: I was drawn to it for the experience of doing the audition. Once I became the Churchill Downs bugler, I love that I can share the Kentucky Derby with people around the world and help people feel a connection to horse racing.It's become something I really enjoy.
What's your favorite place to go at Churchill Downs that is not open to the general public?
Buttleman: The Winners Circle where I play for the race fans is my favorite place for sure, and it's not open to everybody.
How do you get ready for the Kentucky Derby season?
Buttleman: Practice practice practice.I practice at home every day before I head to the racetrack.
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Of all the celebrities who attend the Derby, who would you most like to have met?
Buttleman:Wynton Marsalis(an iconic Jazzmusician) and I watched the Kentucky Derby race from the roof and that was awesome. Also, Josh Groban was at (Churchill Downs) and was a really nice guy.My wife came to the Kentucky Derby that year, not because she wanted to watch me play but because shewanted to meet Josh Groban.
What do you do the day after the race, when it’s all over?
Buttleman: Seefamily,go to church, and sleep.
Reach Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com or Twitter@kirbylouisville.
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