John Asher Hometown Hero Banner Unveiled Monday

Churchill Downs will honor its late Vice President of Communications John Asher with a “Hometown Hero” banner to be unveiled Monday in front of Presentation Academy, a school he championed for decades.

The ceremony will take place at Presentation Academy (861 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40203) beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 27.

Asher, who died unexpectedly in 2018 at age 62, joined Churchill Downs in 1997 and quickly became one of the most respected figures in the track’s history. His passion for the Kentucky Derby and pride in the Louisville community made him synonymous with the iconic racing venue itself.

Prior to his tenure at Churchill Downs, Asher established himself as an award-winning radio journalist with NewsRadio 840 WHAS.

Louisville’s Hometown Heroes program, which began in 2002 with a mural installation of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, has previously honored several prominent Louisvillians. The distinguished list includes jockey Pat Day, musician Jack Harlow, journalist Diane Sawyer, and actress Jennifer Lawrence.

The banner will be prominently displayed at Presentation Academy, an institution Asher supported throughout his career.