Kegasus

Kegasus

Kegasus is a fictional character created as part of a marketing campaign for the Preakness Stakes, an American thoroughbred horse race. While Kegasus is not a real entity, he has gained significant attention and popularity due to his unique and humorous portrayal.

Background

Kegasus was introduced in 2011 by the Maryland Jockey Club, the organization responsible for organizing the Preakness Stakes. The Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the American Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes.

Marketing Campaign

The marketing campaign featuring Kegasus aimed to attract a younger demographic to the Preakness Stakes. Kegasus was depicted as a half-man, half-horse character, often seen wearing sunglasses and a party hat. He was portrayed as the "Lord of the InfieldFest," a popular party area within the Preakness Stakes event.

The campaign utilized various media channels, including television commercials, online advertisements, and social media platforms. Kegasus became known for his catchphrase, "Get your Preak on," which further contributed to his popularity.

Reception

The introduction of Kegasus generated mixed reactions from the public. Some embraced the character's humorous and irreverent nature, finding it refreshing and entertaining. Others, however, criticized the campaign for trivializing the prestigious nature of the Preakness Stakes and undermining the sport of horse racing.

Despite the controversy, Kegasus succeeded in attracting a younger audience to the Preakness Stakes. The InfieldFest, where Kegasus was prominently featured, experienced increased attendance and became a popular destination for partygoers.

Legacy

While Kegasus was a fictional character created for a specific marketing campaign, his impact on the Preakness Stakes and the horse racing industry as a whole cannot be denied. The campaign demonstrated the power of innovative and unconventional marketing strategies in reaching new audiences.

Although Kegasus is no longer actively used in the Preakness Stakes marketing, his legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences and finding creative ways to engage with different demographics.

See Also

• Preakness Stakes
• American Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing