Fans to be allowed at Kentucky Derby — with restrictions
There will be fans at Kentucky’s premiere horse racing event this year after all.
After months of uncertainty prompted by the coronavirus pandemic, Churchill Downs announced Thursday that spectators will be allowed at the track for the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 under a set of strict guidelines.
“We truly appreciate the leadership of the governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, and all of the hard work, collaboration and guidance that state and local officials and public health experts have provided us to safely and responsibly host Kentucky Derby Week in September with spectators,” Churchill Downs Racetrack President Kevin Flanery said in a press release.
“Our team is deeply committed to holding the very best Kentucky Derby ever, and we will take all necessary steps to protect the health and safety of all who attend and participate in the Derby. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have established a comprehensive set of operating procedures, which include a multitude of precautionary measures to be followed while fans are in attendance at our facility. We are determined to keep our customers, employees and communities as safe as we responsibly can.”
Churchill Downs worked with the Louisville Metro Health Department to develop the plan in accordance with Kentucky’s “Healthy at Work” protocols.
Some of the guidelines include:
– Limited venue capacity to reduce crowd density. General admission, outdoor reserved seating, premium dining and suite access will be reduced. More information on ticketing and seating areas will be released in the coming days. Information will be also be sent directly to ticket holders.
– General admission tickets will be limited to a specified number and only grant access to the infield. No general admission will be allowed in the “front side” or paddock areas of Churchill Downs.
– Access throughout the facility will be severely limited and credentials for employees, media and guests will be reduced. Barn area access will be restricted to essential personnel. Guests and parties in the barn area for morning workouts and during race days will be eliminated.
– Changes in venue operations to limit personto-person touchpoints.
Churchill Downs officials will also be encouraging fans to wear masks at all times when moving around the venue, including riding on shuttles, going to the restroom, purchasing concessions and placing wagers.
Fans will also be allowed to attend the Kentucky Oaks on Sept. 4. Racing originally scheduled on Tuesday through Thursday of Derby Week (April 28-30, 2020) has been rescheduled to Tuesday through Thursday, September 1-3, 2020. The Tuesday, April 28, 2020, Dawn at the Downs event has been rescheduled to Sunday, Aug. 30, 2020, and the Wednesday April 29, 2020, Dawn at the Downs event is rescheduled to Monday, Aug. 31, 2020.
Derby Week tickets purchased for the originally scheduled dates are automatically valid for the new dates.
Details and updates can be viewed online at Kentuckyderby.com/ updates.
“The impact of the Kentucky Derby extends well beyond the Twin
Spires of Churchill Downs,” Flanery said.
“It is an incredibly important time for the
City of Louisville and the Commonwealth of Kentucky both culturally, economically and with respect to our timehonored traditions. Both employees and guests are asked to take an active role in following all guidelines. We must all do our part to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.”