LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Thurby was the warmest day of Derby Week so far, with temperatures in the mid to high 80s all afternoon.
There were medical providers on site and the Norton Sports Health Team has passed along tips to stay safe in the heat. Those include staying hydrated, finding shade, and going into buildings with air conditioning.
Despite the warm weather, it was still a busy day at Churchill Downs. Many fans went to the track prepared for the warm day.
“To prepare for the heat, I got one of the moisture wicking shirts,” said Talbot Caywood, who came to Louisville from Cincinnati for Thurby.
People were also ready for the sunshine.
“We put sunscreen on first thing because we knew we were gonna be in the first turn so we kind of prepared for that,” said Norbert Whelan, who attended Thurby with his wife and some friends.
Many people in attendance had water with them, including Miss Kentucky 2023 Mallory Hudson and Miss Kentucky Teen 2023 Sophia Todd.
“We are definitely staying hydrated today,” Hudson said. “We are using our books as fans as well. We are making it work. We’re happy to be here. It definitely is a hot one, but what better way to celebrate the 150th?”
Starting on Friday, the Norton Sports Health Team is going to have tents set up for people to grab things like band-aids, sunscreen, and fans. Director Tiff Haub recommends that people follow their tips and seek out these items when they start feeling hot before conditions worsen.