LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) The Kentucky Derby will run without fans at Churchill Downs next month. The historic rail quote is increasing in cases of COVID-19 in the Louisville area.
It will mark the second Triple Crown race this year without spectators, after the Belmont Stakes in June. The Derby and Kentucky Oaks for fillies were postponed from May 1-2 to September 4-5 due to the coronavirus.
Churchill Downs recently announced an attendance limit of 23,000 for the 146th Derby as part of a 62-page health and safety plan for the equestrian marquee event.
“We were confident in that plan, but committed to staying flexible with the best and most reliable information available,” the track said in a statement. “With the current significant increases in COVID-19 cases in Louisville and throughout the region, we had to reconsider our planning.
“We deeply regret the disappointment this brings to our loyal fans.”
The track will reimburse ticket holders for all Derby Week match data.
Churchill Downs said her decision comes with the support of Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who said the virus continues to spread throughout the state. He also quoted an announcement from the White House that Louisville and surrounding Jefferson County are in a ‘red zone’.
Beshear added that the county had 2,300 new cases this week alone and appealed to Churchill Downs for controlling the virus and “making the right and responsible decision.”
Churchill Downs could not allow spectators to attend its delayed spring meeting, which included the Derby’s postponement of the first Saturday in May for the first time since 1945. The exchange also moved the Derby to the middle jewel of the Triple Crown of racing, with the Preakness following on October 3 in Baltimore.
The track this summer had announced restriction of general permission on the 26-acre surface for the Derby before this eliminated and standing room only with updated guidelines. Churchill Downs had its attendance limit based on 14% of the 2015 record of 170,513, with reserved seats limited to 40% occupancy.
Now the Derby and Oaks will leave without one among the Twin Spiers.
