Denver Derby Party Final Year: 5 Scholarships Awarded

Lucía Torres · 2026-04-30

### A Party With a Purpose: 25 Years of Giving The Denver Derby Party (DDP) is back for its 25th and final year on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at LoDo's McGregor Square. Hosted by the Sean "Ranch" Lough Foundation (SRLF), this event isn't just about sipping mint juleps and wearing fancy hats. It's a fundraiser that's changed lives. Since it started, the foundation has given full-ride scholarships to Colorado State University (CSU) for students who really need them. Think about that: a four-year, all-expenses-paid education for kids who might not have had a shot otherwise. ### The Story Behind the Foundation Sean Lough, known to everyone as "Ranch," was just 21 when he died in a biking accident. But his spirit lived on. His friends -- all CSU grads -- wanted to do something meaningful. They started a scholarship program in his memory. Co-founders Scott Anderson, Terrance Hunt, and Ron I. Martinez were part of that original crew. They turned grief into action, and that action grew into something huge.  ### From a Backyard to McGregor Square What began as a small backyard gathering when they were in their 20s is now a Denver institution. The party has moved around over the years: the Wash Park Boathouse, the Denver Botanic Gardens, the lawn outside the Denver Center of the Performing Arts. Now it's at McGregor Square. And this year is the last one. The group is ready to pass the torch, but they're going out with a bang. ### Real Impact, Real Lives Martinez, a LIV Sotheby's International Realty global real estate advisor, has been a founder and board member from the start. He doesn't just write checks. He mentors the scholarship recipients, helping them navigate life. Many of these kids have little to no family support. "Twenty-five years ago, a group of friends came together to honor Ranch and turn grief into something meaningful -- and I could never have imagined the lives we'd change along the way," Martinez says. "As we close this chapter, I'm filled with pride for every scholar we've supported and gratitude for everyone who showed up year after year to make this possible. This final party is a true celebration of Ranch's legacy and the community he inspired." ### A Well-Deserved Recognition In March, Martinez won the Community Service Excellence Award from the Denver Metro Association of Realtors. The award is voted on by peers, which makes it extra special. "That really makes the win that much sweeter knowing it came from my peers," he said. ### 2026 Scholars: Five This Year Denver area high school seniors can apply for one of the scholarships. So far, more than 115 students from around the world have gotten help. This year, for the first time, the foundation is awarding five scholarships. Scholars get notified in a small ceremony at their high school, then the public announcement happens on stage at McGregor Square. ### What the Scholarship Covers - Full tuition for four years at CSU - Room and board - Books and fees - Mentorship from foundation members ### How You Can Help Even though this is the last party, the foundation's work continues. You can donate directly to SRLF or attend the event on May 2. Tickets are available through the foundation's website. Every dollar goes toward those scholarships. ### Final Thoughts The Denver Derby Party is more than a celebration. It's a legacy. Twenty-five years of turning tragedy into opportunity. Five scholarships in one year. Hundreds of lives changed. That's something worth raising a glass to.