Ride for the Future —

A New Tampa Bay Tradition Begins on May 2, 2026

Denim & Derby is not simply an event.
It is the beginning of a legacy.

Tampa Bay’s Premier Equestrian Social Event.

Thank you for your interest in Denim & Derby: Ride for the Future.
We’re thrilled to have you here — and excited to welcome you at the very beginning of something special.

Designed to open doors, fund scholarships, and prepare the next generation to lead both in and out of the arena, this inaugural event marks the founding chapter of a tradition built to endure.

We invite you to stand with us as a Founding Partner and help launch something truly extraordinary from the start.

Pam Rousch, Founder & Executive Director | Avalon Family Charities | Lutz, FL

Denim & Derby blends Derby-day excitement with a family-forward arena experience unlike anything else in the region.

Denim & Derby isn’t just another fundraiser.

This is where philanthropy meets celebration — and where today’s supporters invest in tomorrow’s leaders.

Every ticket and sponsorship directly funds youth scholarships and leadership programming at Avalon Family Charities

It’s an unforgettable night outdoors at Avalon — surrounded by world-class horses, open skies, and a community that knows how to show up.

Hosted at Avalon Stables, Denim & Derby is a Kentucky Derby Watch Party and Casino Night that brings together families, business leaders, and community supporters for an elevated day of style, celebration, and impact.

At its heart, Denim & Derby exists for one reason: To invest in the next generation of leaders.

This is Boots & Big Hats!
Bourbon in hand.
Music under the lights.
Laughter across the farm.

🔥 The best BBQ in Tampa - Thank you to our friends at The Brisket Shoppe
🥃 Bourbon & cigar lounge
🎰 Casino Night - All Adult Tickets come with $500.00 Casino Cash
📺 Live Kentucky Derby Watch party energy
💃 Line dancing - Boots are a MUST!
🐂 Mechanical bull
🌾 A beautiful farm setting that feels electric after sunset

Adults will love the atmosphere and kids will have their own fun zone.
Kids (10+) will have their own supervised high-energy Kids Zone with line dancing, mechanical bull fun, and space designed just for them.

Emcee: Tampa Bay’s very own Bridgette Bello | Founder & CEO, The Executive Collective

Why This All Matters...

Equestrian sport teaches discipline, resilience, and leadership under pressure — lessons that extend far beyond the arena.

Yet access to these life-changing experiences remains out of reach for many families.

Denim & Derby was created to change that.

These experiences don't just create riders.

They help shape Tampa Bay's future leaders, fundraisers, and philanthropists who carry these lessons into their families, careers, and communities.

Through scholarships and access initiatives, Avalon Family Charities builds: Confidence, Accountability, Work ethic & Leadership

This is an investment in the next generation of female athletes and leaders — and this year, fifteen young women are rising right here in Tampa Bay.

They are training, competing, fundraising, and leading.
Now they need a business community willing to stand with them.

💎 The Diamond Girl of the Year Award — Rising Leaders, Giving Back

Leadership is learned early — and philanthropy is a mindset that betters the world around us.

This an investment in the next generation of leaders and changemakers.

The Diamond Girl Award honors young riders who exemplify responsibility, character, leadership, and service.

These young women are training, competing, fundraising, and leading — and this year, fifteen are rising right here in Tampa Bay.

Now they need a business community willing to stand with them.

⭐ Become a Founding Supporter

By supporting Denim & Derby, you become a Founding Supporter of a new Tampa Bay tradition — one that will grow year after year and leave a lasting impact on generations of young riders.

Founding Supporters are the reason this legacy begins.

Whether you give through a ticket, sponsorship, or direct donation, your support helps open doors, build confidence, and create opportunity — right where it matters most.

Ride with us at the beginning.

Melea Guilbault | Denim & Derby Event Chair

If you’re interested in sponsorship opportunities:
📱 Text: 813-638-2911 (“Sponsor”)
📧 Email: melea@thempoweragency.com

Denim & Derby — Ride For The Future 2026

Kids Zone Tickets | SUPPORT | DONATE