Flay does have a connection with the Derby — if nothing more than he’s a known fan of the big event. Two weeks ago, he appeared on NBC’s Today Show touting Kentucky Derby recipes, including the basic Mint Julep and a dish “All You Can Eat Shrimp with Green Onion, Garlic, and BBQ Spices.”

Flay is also a horse owner, and he’ll be busy during his time in town as Churchill Downs’ official host of something new, called Kentucky Derby Party. Now, we’re tempted to say this new deal is just an attempt to sell more Derby merchandise, but maybe, just maybe, there’s more. If you’re hosting a party, it’ll have tips, recipes and, oh, yes, instructions for ordering stuff. Like, you know, official swizzle sticks.