The Kentucky Derby is unlike any other sporting event out there. With more or less 150000 people watching the event, you’ll sure feel the exciting atmosphere, especially when the races start. With its unparalleled culture and tradition, it’s no wonder why Forbes magazine included the Kentucky Derby on their “Greatest Bucket-list Sporting Events.”
Every year in May, tons of people would go to Churchill Down to see the first jewel of the Triple Crown Series and bet their hearts out to try and win big money. If you’re planning to go to the 148th Kentucky Derby next year, then there are some things you should remember when attending the event. However, before we talk about the things you should expect in the event, let’s talk about the event itself first.
About the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is the most prestigious horse racing event in the US. It’s also one and the first among the three events in the Triple Crown. The Triple Crown series, according to tvg, consists of three horse racing events where horses would duke it out to win all three of them. The winner will be labeled as the Triple Crown champ, which is the highest honor the series gives.
The Kentucky Derby festival starts two weeks before the annual event, and it’s filled with a lot of bourbons, barbecuing, and a lot of other good stuff that you can enjoy before you can bet your heart out in the races. That said, if you’re planning to go, here are some things you should expect from the event.
There’s Going to Be a Lot of Walking
In some ways, the Kentucky Derby would be a fashion show since a lot of people will be walking around with their best outfits. While it’s completely okay to do that, you should remember you’ll be walking a lot, so you have to prioritize comfort versus fashion.
Also, if you’re planning to go on heels, you better have extra footwear like flats or sandals. Not only that, but if it’s sunny, you’re going to have to walk a lot under the heat of the sun so bring an umbrella.
Weather Changes
The Kentucky Derby is an outdoor event, so there’s going to be a lot of walking, but the weather itself is a wild card. So when making your plans for the event, you should consider the kind of weather the event will have. Thus, you should check the weather reports beforehand.
Consider packing sunscreen to avoid getting sunburnt and an umbrella for the rain. A chapstick would also be good for your lips. Bring all of these things if your seat is outdoors. However, do take note that umbrellas are not allowed inside the facility as they can block the view of other guests.
Big Crowd
The size and energy of the crowd are what make the Kentucky Derby truly exhilarating. With the sheer amount of more or less 150000, it’s no wonder why tickets are running out fast as the date of the Kentucky Derby comes near. However, this also means that simple tasks like finding your friends amidst the sea of people or simply finding your seats will be a struggle with all the people around.
With that in mind, for you to not get stuck among the people, you may very well go ahead while it’s still early to avoid the huge rush. This is even much worse if you’re late, as it can be pretty impossible for you to find your seats once the races start.
Two Minutes of Pure Thrill
The Kentucky Derby is considered by many to be the most exciting two minutes of sports, and we’re not joking here as it only takes literally two minutes for the horses to run a mile and half-track. So what should you do between races?
Luckily, there are a lot of pre-race festivities that you can watch, or you can just go to the betting booth and place another bet for the next race. Also, don’t worry if you get hungry as there are a lot of food stalls around the event, so you won’t starve during the festivities.
Tickets
Tickets to the event are non-refundable and non-replaceable. Also, the staff is not liable for any losses of property and tickets during the event. Due to the sheer size of the crowd and the constant comings and goings of the people, it’s going to be hard to track lost things. Always be prepared to show your tickets as they will be required when you go through the gate. And make sure to be aware of scalpers as they are quite common in the event.
Takeaway
The Kentucky Derby is surely an event you should not miss, especially if you’re a horse racing fan or bettor. Its sheer size and excitement are something you should experience once in your life. That said, remember to mark your calendars in May 2022 and we’ll see you there.
