Gregory Payan / Associated Press
Churchill Downs Racetrack announced Thursday that it will allow fans to attend the 2020 Kentucky Derby on September 5 under “strict guidelines” amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Track President Kevin Flanery released a statement on the decision:
“Our team is deeply committed to celebrating the best Kentucky Derby, 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 We have established a comprehensive set of operating procedures, including a multitude of precautionary measures that must be followed while fans attend our facilities. We are determined to keep our customers, employees and communities as safe as we can in a responsible manner. “
Churchill Downs updated its Fan Code of Conduct to reflect the COVID-19 situation. He claims that fans will be “consistently and frequently encouraged” to wear a face shield while attending the Derby, but they did not say that a mask would be required to attend.
Spectators will also be asked to follow standard social distancing guidelines and to wash or disinfect their hands frequently while on the track.
The statement says some of the steps to be taken will include “reductions in venue capacity to limit overall crowd density, including general admission, reserved outdoor seating, premium dining and suites. In the coming days, It will release more information on ticketing and seating areas. It will also be sent directly to ticket holders. “
In addition, the track will attempt to limit person-to-person interactions to gamble, buy concessions, and other cases where social distancing would not be possible. Its normal capacity is approximately 60,000.
“The impact of the Kentucky Derby extends far beyond the Churchill Downs Twin Towers,” said Flanery. “It is an incredibly important time for the city of Louisville and the Commonwealth of Kentucky, both culturally and economically and with respect to our traditional traditions.”
This year’s Derby went from May 2 to September 5 due to the pandemic. It is part of a renewed Triple Crown program in which the Belmont Stakes, traditionally the final race, took place last Saturday and the Preakness Stakes is set to finish the slate on October 3.
Tiz the Law, the favorite of the morning line 6-5, won the Belmont in a dominant way and should come to Churchill Downs as a great favorite to succeed in the Race for the Roses.
The Kentucky Derby could become America’s first major sporting event with fans since the pandemic stopped the sports world in mid-March.
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