Did you watch the Kentucky Derby earlier this month? We happened to be passing through Louisville and everything—I mean EVERYTHING—was derby. And after Rich Strike’s exciting win, well, who couldn’t fall in love with that gorgeous horse?
We’re all suckers for an underdog. At 80-1 odds, neither Rich Strike nor his team were in the high rolling circuit. In fact, they were in the derby lineup only because another horse was pulled at the last minute. But if there’s one thing Rich Strike’s team was, it was ready. When the opportunity arose, they ran for the roses. That’s what made Rich Strike everyone’s darling.
How Ready is Your Product?
In this Forbes article Rich Strike’s trainer Eric Reed said, “We’re not supposed to be here, but I knew this horse loved the track. He’d been training so good all year.” Reed knew his horse and had him ready to run when put to the test.
How well do you know your product? Is it ready to go when you have an unexpected “run for the roses?”
How Ready is Your Messaging?
Jockey Sonny Leon said, “I knew I had a horse for this race.” Owner Ric Dawson said, “We never enter a race we don’t think we can win.”
Not only was Rich Strike set to run, but his team was ready with their PR messaging. How ready are you to talk about your product? Can you run with impressive promos on the spur of the moment? (I know, I know, enough of the horsey puns.)
How Ready is Your Media?
Mercury Equine Center, the training facility owned by Reed, makes a bold online presence. Its website is supurb and the imagery is stunning.
Is your website up to date? Do you have quality photos ready for brochures, press releases and other promotions? Can people find the right information when they want to learn more about you?
Make sure you’re ready when it’s your turn to run!
What I’m Working On This Month
I’m wrapping up a new poster! It’s been professionally proofed, tweaked and readied for press. Watch for hooplas in June!
In the meantime, check out my Ice Age Trail poster for more Wisconsin highlights and make plans for your summer outdoors.
What I’m Tuned In To This Month
- Networking for Introverts: Four great ideas for when you need to act like an extrovert.
- Cool App: Everyone needs a household inventory for insurance purposes. This makes it fun and easy.
- Shaved Asparagus Pizza: It’s asparagus season and I love this recipe (actually I love all her recipes)!
- May is Small Business Month: We’re half way through the month but this site is a great resource all year long.