Rescheduled Kentucky Derby to allow fans under safety protocols

Kentucky Derby 2020 logo

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky: The 146th runnings of the rescheduled Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks will be held September 4 and 5 with spectators present, the organisers announced Thursday.
   
"In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, our top priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of our guests and team members. 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," said Kevin Flanery, president, Churchill Downs Racetrack, which hosts the Kentucky Derby. 

Guest Safety Protocols
Ticketing - Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby commemorative tickets will be replaced with mobile tickets to gain entry to the facility. Tickets for all Derby Week dates will not be sold at the box office and may be purchased online or over the phone.

Fan Conduct - All guests entering the facility are encouraged to wear a cloth or other protective mask that fully covers their nose and mouth and to social distance from other guests when possible. Guests are asked to not attend if not feeling well. *Subject to change pending current public health guidelines.

Guest Safety - Guest capacity reductions will be in effect for all areas within the facility. Hand sanitizer dispensers will be placed at key entrances and contact areas. Soap and water will be available in all restroom locations.

General Admission - General admission capacity will be limited to ensure adequate space for social distancing. General admission access will be limited to the infield area. There will be no access to the Paddock or “front side” areas of the facility.

Food & Beverage – Menu items will be covered and individually presented to guests instead of being served off of Chef’s tables. Menu selection will be reduced to ensure the same level of quality is maintained. Individual cutlery kits, napkins and single use condiments will be distributed to guests and all concession items will be wrapped.

Cleaning Protocols - Housekeeping staff will ensure that cleaning and sanitation of frequently touched surfaces are conducted using EPA registered household disinfectants. High touch point areas, including all seating, tabletops, and other tabletop items, door handles, handrails, elevator buttons, phones, pens, and keypads will be cleaned on a constant rotation. General guest-use restrooms will be staffed continuously to ensure restrooms are maintained to stay clean and sanitized throughout each day.

Derby Week Information 
Racing on Tuesday through Thursday of Derby Week (April 28-30, 2020) has been rescheduled to Tuesday through Thursday, September 1-3, 2020 respectively. The Tuesday, April 28, 2020 Dawn at the Downs event has been rescheduled to Sunday, August 30, 2020 and the Wednesday April 29, 2020 Dawn at the Downs event is rescheduled to Monday, August 31, 2020. Saturday, April 25th has been rescheduled to September 19th, 2020.

Churchill Downs Racetrack
The 2020 Spring Meet at Churchill Downs Racetrack is taking place spectator-free from May 16 – June 28 under strict guidelines to effectively mitigate the impact of COVID-19.