LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The Kentucky Derby, dubbed "the most exciting two minutes in sports," took a dark turn this year as thousands of revelers chose to celebrate with extra whiskey after the death of a seventh horse at the world-famous event. With news of yet another horse tragically passing away dominating headlines, fans of the sport showed their sensitivity by raising a glass and toasting the deceased, symbolizing their deeply held respect and concern for the animals through conspicuous displays of consumption. "I've always cared about the welfare of the horses," said Bart Tonsol, a Kentucky Derby regular, as he freshened his whiskey with a generous pour. "I think it's important to honor them with some bourbon. It just feels right, you know?" Indeed, the Kentucky Derby is well-known for its traditions, including extravagant hats, mint juleps, and attendees consuming copious amounts of alcohol. Experts say the ritual of drinking in memory of fallen horses has become increasingly popular in recent years. "Drinking to honor the horses might seem controversial, but really it's a way of showing solidarity," said self-proclaimed equine enthusiast Tedi Dietrich as she polished off a bottle of whiskey. "We stand with the horses in their time of need." The cause of the deaths has yet to be officially determined, but one thing is for sure: the exuberant consumption of whiskey won't stop any time soon. "There's a sense of unity, I think," said one partygoer, who wished to remain anonymous, as she and her friends partook in "shots for the fallen." "It's a way of saying, 'We're all in this together, even if that means getting absolutely plastered in solidarity.'" The tradition has quickly gained traction, with many demanding that horse-racing aficionados from across the nation join in to commemorate the lives of the brave animals. One popular hashtag has even sprung up on social media, #WhiskeyForHorses, urging racegoers to drink whiskey in their honor. "It's important that we always remember the horses, and what better way than with a glass of fine Kentucky whiskey?" said Derby veteren Ida Banson, tears welling up in her eyes as she clutched her drink. "I'm sure they'd want it that way."