Churchill Downs says Kentucky Derby to be run without fans

[mystery-ak]

 Churchill Downs says Kentucky Derby to be run without fans
By John Clay, Lexington Herald-Leader 12 hrs ago


LEXINGTON, Ky. — There will not be any fans at this year’s Kentucky Derby after all.

After previously announcing that up to 23,000 fans would be allowed to attend the world’s most famous race, Churchill Downs switched gears Friday by announcing that the Sept. 5 race will be run without spectators because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Churchill Downs and all of our team members feel strongly that it is our collective responsibility as citizens of Louisville to do all we responsibly can to protect the health, safety and security of our community in these challenging times and believe that running the Derby without spectators is the best way to do that,” the track said in a press release on Friday. “We deeply regret the disappointment this will bring to our loyal fans.”

It will be the first time in the history of the race that it has not been run in front of spectators. Churchill said the decision came with the support of Gov. Andy Beshear.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/more-sports/churchill-downs-says-kentucky-derby-to-be-run-without-fans/ar-BB18eZyK?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=spartandhp

[libertybele]

Gee ... no outlandish derby hats this year?

[sneakypete]

That HAS to have an affect on the gates and the winnings. Gamblers feed off of adrenaline,and nothing pumps it up like being in the middle of an excited crowd.

TV broadcasts just ain't the same thing.

[truth_seeker]

.............................our collective responsibility


In my life, that was taught by football coaches, fraternity brothers  and drill sergeants.

Not by news/sports writers.

[catfish1957]

 "Churchill Downs says Kentucky Derby to be run without fans"

Taking a page from the NBA playbook.