Officials with Churchill Downs Racetrack announced Thursday morning they will host the Kentucky Derby with spectators in attendance in September.
The decision for the 146th running of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve and Longines Kentucky Oaks, comes after consultation with Governor Andy Beshear and state public health officials and will occur under strict guidelines.
Kentucky Derby Week will be held September 1-5 with the Oaks to take place on Friday, September 4, and the Derby on Saturday, September 5.
Churchill Downs Racetrack President Kevin Flanery says his 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.
Churchill Downs’ plan was developed in conjunction with advice and counsel set forth by the Louisville Metro Health Department and Kentucky’s Healthy at Work guidance. Some of the steps that will be taken to ensure guest and employee safety include:
- Venue capacity reductions to limit overall crowd density, including general admission, outdoor reserved seating, premium dining, and suites. More information on ticketing and seating areas will be released in the coming days and also will be sent directly to ticket holders.
- Access throughout the facility will be severely limited.
- 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 person-to-person touchpoints.
- Team member protocols established to protect employees and guests.
- A revised Fan Code of Conduct that establishes expectations for guests coming to the Derby.
- Guests will be consistently and frequently encouraged to wear a mask at all times unless seated in their reserved seat or venue. This includes when:
- Riding on a shuttle
- Traveling through the venue
- Going to the restroom
- Placing an in-person wager
- Purchasing food or beverages from a concession stand
- Guests will be asked to wash their hands for 20 seconds or sanitize them frequently.
- Guests will be encouraged to socially distance themselves from others when possible.
- Guests will be consistently and frequently encouraged to wear a mask at all times unless seated in their reserved seat or venue. This includes when:
More detailed and additional information will be provided in the coming days, here.
