LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky native Jordan Smith will sing the national anthem at the Kentucky Oaks this year.
Smith, a native of Harlan County, was the winner of season nine of NBC’s “The Voice” last year. Churchill Downs says model and actress Kate Upton will serve as first lady of the May 6 Oaks.
Part of the first lady’s role is to raise national awareness of breast and ovarian health and honor the survivors of breast and ovarian cancer.
A parade with 142 cancer survivors will take place on the racetrack following Smith’s national anthem performance. Smith recently released his debut album, “Something Beautiful.”
The Oaks, the premier race for 3-year-old fillies, takes place a day before the Kentucky Derby.
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