Downs time /Kentucky Derby postponed but US racing resumes
After several delays because of coronavirus concerns which ended up postponing the Kentucky Derby until 5 September, Churchill Downs has opened its stables for the first time since winter renovations began back in December, writes Bob Jennings.
Racing will resume on 16 May without spectators, an interesting challenge for the historic track accustomed to fans cheering the thoroughbreds beneath the Twin Spires.
The horses’ arrival in Louisville for training is encouraging for a sport that’s mostly been on hold, along with everything else, because of measures designed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The weekend’s Arkansas Derby without fans offered a long-awaited glimpse of live action, if not some hints of which colts to watch when the 146th Kentucky Derby eventually runs.
Seeing the stables slowly fill up at American racing’s most famous track, even in colder-than-expected weather for May, was another positive step toward resuming the routine horsemen and track workers thrive on.
More work lies ahead for Churchill Downs and an uncertain Triple Crown.
The “Run For The Roses”, as the Kentucky Derby is nicknamed, wasn’t held on the first Saturday in May for the first time since 1945, and it remains to be seen whether the new date will draw the normal crowds and level of public attention.
Likewise for the Triple Crown, where the Preakness and Belmont Stakes could precede the Derby instead of following it.
As those scenarios play out, Churchill Downs prepares for the sweet sounds of horses galloping on the track.