LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Tens of thousands of people will watch the run for the roses at Churchill Downs on Saturday.

More will watch the big race from the comfort of their home.

Every year the derby brings Kent Coy’s family back home. 

“Derby is probably more important than Christmas on coming back here. They won’t miss the derby but they’ll miss a Christmas,” says Coy.

The family meets at the racetrack during the week and throws a huge derby party on Derby Day. 

“The thrill is here but to actually see a horse race better do it on tv so you can see the entire race,” said Coy family member Mary Domschke.   

They’ve been doing it for 15 years and not even cloudy weather could stop them. 

“One year, we had socks on our hands,” said Domschke. 

Getting to the track earlier in the week lets them enjoy the races and each other’s company before the big crowds. 

“Thursday was because of derby and it seemed like it was Louisville day, which started out as Oaks because Oaks used to be Louisville day then it got too crowded and just too much,” said Coy. “And then Thursday was the good day and it just got too much too crowded and we said we have to come here on Wednesday.”

In the end, it’s about being together, wearing big hats and betting on horses.  

“It’s the same good time anyways, so it doesn’t matter coming here at Churchill Downs,” said Coy. 

They hope the family’s streak at Churchill Downs never crosses a finish line. 

“My granddaughter is with us, so it’s a start,” said Domschke. 

Besides watching the run for the roses, the family’s party will include games, a horse race, betting and lots of derby food and drinks.