An Evening of Fun, Fellowship & Aggie Impact
Saturday, April 18, 2026, | 5:00–9:30 PM
Willie Deese Ballroom | North Carolina A&T State University
Doors Open at 4:30 PM
Get ready for one of the most exciting fundraising events of the year! The Aggie Athletic Foundation proudly presents “A Nite at the Races,” a high-energy, Kentucky Derby–themed evening powered by the nationally acclaimed A Night at the Races® experience.
This unforgettable night blends entertainment, friendly competition, and purpose, all in support of Aggie student-athletes and championship excellence.
Event Location
Willie Deese Ballroom – NC A&T State University
The Willie Deese Ballroom is located inside the NC A&T Student Center, centrally positioned on campus and near the Aggie reflection pool. The venue offers an elegant setting, convenient parking, and is perfect for an evening of celebration and impact.
Tickets & Entry
Ticket Price: $100 per guest
Each ticket includes:
Entry to the event
A Kentucky Derby–themed menu
$30 in “funny money” to place bets on the races
Eligibility for gift drawings throughout the night
The Race Experience
10 exciting horse races
12 horses per race
Professionally produced race footage that recreates the thrill of a live racetrack
Races run continuously from 5:00–9:30 PM.
Daily Double Betting
Guests may exchange $10 in real cash for $40 in play money to wager on the Daily Double (Races 4 & 5).
Winnings can also be used to bid on premium gifts following Race 10.
Sponsored Revenue Races
A highlight of the evening, these special races offer families and businesses a unique way to participate while supporting Aggie Athletics.
Race 5 – The Family Purse – $500 Sponsorship
Families name the horse, jockey, and owner.
Includes one $100 event ticket
The winning family receives a trophy and special gifts.
A fun, meaningful way to create a lasting Aggie legacy
Race 10 – The Sponsors Purse – $1,000 Sponsorship
Business sponsors name the horse, jockey, and owner.
The winning sponsor receives a trophy and gifts.
Recognition during the event and alignment with Aggie excellence
Special Race 10 Opportunity
Two signature horses, Aggie Pride and Aggie Blue, are available for premium ownership recognition.
$1,250 to name the jockey and owner
The winning sponsor receives a trophy and gifts.
A marquee moment showcasing Aggie Pride & Aggie Blue
Games, Giveaways & Big Fun
Gift Drawings
Entry ticket drawings for gifts will take place throughout the night.
Five-Card “Deal or No Deal.”
Two high-energy Five-Card Deal or No Deal games will be held between Race 6 and Race 9.
How it works:
Selected participants choose from five sealed cards, each hiding a cash or prize value. As offers are revealed, players decide, Deal or No Deal?
These moments bring excitement, suspense, and big crowd energy, with chances to win impressive prizes.
Why Your Support Matters
A Nite at the Races is more than an event; it’s an investment in the future of Aggie Athletics.
Through the partnership and generosity of our alumni, families, friends, and business community, the Aggie Athletic Foundation advances:
Aggie Brand
Aggie Excellence
Aggie Championship Potential
Your support helps provide life-changing educational and athletic opportunities for our student-athletes, developing leaders who will strengthen our communities and our nation.
Join Us Trackside
Come dressed to impress, place your bets, cheer your horse, and enjoy an unforgettable night—all for a powerful cause.