TWIRL FOR THE ROSES: OPEN CONTEST
Miss Kentucky Derby Majorette: is a title that carries a sense of tradition, elegance, and skill within the realm of baton twirling. Held annually in conjunction with the iconic Kentucky Derby, this event celebrates the art and precision of majorettes who captivate audiences with their dazzling performances. Participants are judged on their technical skills, showmanship, and overall presentation, blending athletic prowess with artistic flair. Winning the title is not just an acknowledgment of one's talent but also a prestigious honor that ties the majorette to the rich history and pageantry of the Kentucky Derby. The event highlights the importance of dedication, practice, and creativity in the world of competitive baton twirling.
Contestants will compete in Modeling, Solo, and Strut.
NOVICE LEVEL:
- Modeling - Derby Day attire, Circle T pattern WITH interview.
- Solo - See NBTA Rule book, link available on website.
- Basic Strut - performed in a box square with each leg consisting of 8 counts. The music will be standard NBTA marching music.
BEGINNGER, INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCE LEVELS:
- Modeling - Derby Day attire, Circle-T pattern WITH interview.
- Solo - See NBTA Rule book, link available on website.
- X-Strut - See NBTA Rule book
A Day at the Derby Model: Open to males and females, males and females will compete seperately. Contestants will model casual wear that reflects attending the Derby in a Circle-T modeling pattern with NO INTERVIEW. Hats/Fascinators are not required but encouraged as they are seen as a Derby Day Tradition and is a fun way to showcase your own unique style. Examples of Derby attire can be found on our website www.kentuckytwirlingconsortium.com .
Best Appearing: Open to females only, contestants perform a Circle-T modeling pattern with NO INTERVIEW. Contestants are to model in costume for all age divisions. NBTA Rules and Scoresheets will be followed.
Derby Hat Choice: We are thrilled to invite everyone—contestants, parents, and the general public—to participate in our exciting Derby Hat Competition! This lively event is a wonderful opportunity for you to showcase your creativity and style by designing your own unique derby hat. Each participant will have the chance to create their own derby hat and enter it into one of three categories: Most Classical, Most Eccentric, and/or Most Whimsical. Participants may enter as many hats as you want per category, however each hat can only be entered into one category.
Judging will occur throughout the day using a silent voting method. Competition patrons will cast their votes for the hats they believe best represent each category. The anticipation and excitement will build as the votes are quietly tallied, and winners are announced! Examples can be found on our website www.kentuckytwirlingconsortium.com .
Parade March: Contestants perform a basic parade march routine in a square formation, each leg being 8 steps in length for a total of 32 counts, with a left flank occurring on each 8th count. Lower body movements are to be marching steps in a left-right pattern in step with the music. Basic NBTA marching music will be used. Contestants will perform once. No gymnastics.
Twirl for the Roses High-Point Memorial Award:
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In heartfelt remembrance of Ms. Heather Byrdwell, we have created the Twirl for the Roses High-Point Memorial Award. This award honors Heather’s remarkable spirit, her determination to overcome adversity, and her unwavering ability to inspire others to pursue their highest goals. The Twirl for the Roses High-Point Memorial Award is dedicated to preserving Heather’s legacy. It recognizes individuals who, like Heather, demonstrate courage, perseverance, and a passion for lifting others up. Through this award, we strive to encourage openness, resilience, and connection, and to remind everyone that seeking help is a sign of strength.
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The Twirl for the Roses High-Point Memorial Award is given to the contestant with the highest points at the end of the Twirl for the Roses open competition. The recipient receives a 6’ Traveling Trophy, baton bouquet, sash, crown and a minimum of $200 cash award. Watch website for increase in cash award as donations come in. If you want to make a donation please include it with your entry.
- This is a 6' traveling trophy that must be returned on or before the 2027 Twirl for the Roses competition, which is tentatively scheduled for April 24, 2027. It is the receipting’s responsibility to either ship or make arrangements to meet with the contest director to return the trophy (it can be broken down for easier shipping.)
- POINT CACULATION:
- 1st place = 5 points
- 2nd place = 4 points
- 3rd place = 3 points
- 4th place = 2 points
- 5th place = 1 point
- QUALIFYING HIGH POINT EVENTS ARE:
- Best Appearing (female only)
- Basic March
- Military March (male only)
- Parade March
- X-strut/Men’s X-strut
- Solo/Men’s Solo
- Visitors Solo/In-state Solo
- Flag Baton
- 2-Baton
- 3-Baton
- Show Twirl
- Pom Pom
- Color Guard Flag Solo
- Rifle Solo
- Sabre Solo
- Half-time Danceline Solo
Note, you DO NOT have to enter all qualifying events. Of course, the more events you are entered in the more chances you have to earn points. With that said, you also don’t want to push yourself by entering too many events where you have to jump from lane to lane without a break in between each event. Enter wisely 😊