KENTUCKY — This week’s special edition of In Focus Kentucky is broadcasting from Churchill Downs in the city of Louisville, as the Commonwealth once again is on display for the 150th running of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby coming up on Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4.
Churchill Downs Racetrack is considered one of the most legendary racetracks and it has hosted Thoroughbred racing and presents the world’s most exciting two minutes in sports every year since 1875.
During this segment, Darren Rogers, Senior Director, for Communications and Media Services of Churchill Downs, joins the program to discuss all the things you need to know for Kentucky Derby Week 2024.
Rogers says with the track attendance expected to attract over 150,000 people, the Kentucky Derby is significantly larger than comparable sports events such as the Super Bowl, the World Series or the NCAA Final Four.
In addition to our on-site security staff, Churchill Downs partners with local, state and federal law enforcement to ensure derby week and the entire spring meet runs smoothly and safely. For the safety of all guests, bags may be searched, and you may be wanded by security. You can find a complete list here of prohibited items at Churchill Downs.
All guests are encouraged to park in Yellow and Turquoises lots and enter through the Clubhouse or VIP gate for the following areas: General Admission, Clubhouse 100 or 300 level boxes, Stakes Room, Skye Terrace, Roses Lounge, Trophy Room, Finish Line Suites, Millionaires Row, Matt Winn’s Steakhouse. You are able to access the Yellow and Turquoises lots via Longfield Avenue.
If you are having an event or seated in the Starting Gate Suites or Homestretch Club, park in the Black or Green lots and enter through the Executive Gate which can be accessed via Central Avenue.
Races are a rain or shine event be prepared as a large number of seatings are outdoors and uncovered. In only extreme weather situations will racing be delayed or suspended.
Churchill Downs also created a list of helpful information where you can check the seating areas pages you are attending for specific Dos and Don’ts.
You can watch the full ‘In Focus Kentucky’ segment in the player above.