Churchill Downs Incorporated has announced its decision to reschedule the 146th Longines Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve.
The 146th Kentucky Derby will be rescheduled from May 2, 2020 to September 5, 2020 and the 146th Kentucky Oaks will be rescheduled from May 1, 2020 to September 4, 2020.
These dates are contingent upon final approval from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission which we expect to receive on Thursday, March 19.
CDI’s CEO, Bill Carstanjen, stated: “Throughout the rapid development of the COVID-19 pandemic, our first priority has been how to best protect the safety and health of our guests, team members and community. As the situation evolved, we steadily made all necessary operational adjustments to provide the safest experience and environment. The most recent developments have led us to make some very difficult, but we believe, necessary decisions and our hearts are with those who have been or continue to be affected by this pandemic.
We are fortunate to have great partnerships during these challenging times with the Governor of Kentucky, the City of Louisville, NBC and so many others. For the second time in the 145-year history of the event, the first time being at the end of World War II, we will move the date of the Kentucky Derby. We sincerely regret any inconvenience this creates for our outstanding fans, whom I’m sure will understand that there is no doubt that this must be done.
Our team is united in our commitment to holding the very best Kentucky Derby ever and certainly the most unique in any of our lifetimes. While we are always respectful of the time-honored traditions of the Kentucky Derby, our Company’s true legacy is one of resilience, the embracing of change and unshakeable resolve.
We will hold the 146th Kentucky Derby on September 5th, 2020, just as our Company has held the Kentucky Derby in every single year since 1875. The 146th running of Kentucky Oaks will take place the day before on Friday, September 4th, 2020.We believe that moving this iconic event to Labor Day weekend this year will enable the country to have time to contain the spread of COVID-19. This will also provide guests more time to reschedule their travel and hotel arrangements so that they can attend. Broadcast partner NBC was involved in the selection of dates based on the limited number of other sporting events being held that weekend and the decision was also based on the availability of lodging in the Louisville area to accommodate visitors to the Derby.
The impact of this iconic event extends well beyond the historic racetrack of Churchill Downs – and is an important time for the city of Louisville and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Details and planning for Derby Week beyond Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby are still to be determined.
For the latest information on Derby Week, Spring Meet and details on ticketing as well as other relevant information regarding this change, please visit kentuckyderby.com/updates.
