Picture-perfect Kentucky Oaks day brings crowds back to Churchill Downs

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Picture perfect weather for Kentucky Oaks day had crowds back at Churchill Downs for horse racing and all that goes with it.

People dressed in pink started going through the gates early, but crowds were much smaller than in the past. COVID-19 restrictions mean only about 45,000 people can be at the track. Social distancing was enforced, and security was walking around the track in yellow shirts holding up signs reminding people to wear masks.

"We were here yesterday and it was raining and it was terrible but God gave us this day and we're going to thrive on it... it's the best day ever," two Derby attendees told WDRB.

The Grandstand has seats spaced out. Tickets on the front of the track are "all inclusive," which means the price of a ticket covers food and drink for the day. The set-up means less contact, and no currency is exchanged. But that's not the case at the betting windows, where cash is accepted.

IMAGES | Picture-perfect Kentucky Oaks day brings crowds back to Churchill Downs

In the infield, lawn chairs were set up by racing fans marking territory for a beautiful day. Masks are required in the infield, too, but it's a more relaxed crowd where a quick check shows many are losing the masks.

Those at Churchill Downs Friday welcomed the opportunity to dress up again and be out in the sun, while others who have attended Oaks and Derby for the past 40 years, reflected on past Derbys.

"I was here with my dad on his last Derby before he passed away and we're coming back here to a very special place where my son's wedding reception will be held in June," Kim Black said. "One of our favorite places to be in the entire world. I love this place."

IMAGES | Scenes from Kentucky Oaks Day 2021 at Churchill Downs

The tradition is back for the Kentucky Oaks race, but there were some changes. There weren't any celebrities or a red carpet, and the Cancer Survivors Parade was virtual. But there was a moment set aside in the Winner's Circle before the race to recognize survivors. The National Anthem was performed by Thunderstorm Artis.

It's a big day for racing at Churchill Downs. There were several Grade II and Grade I races on the card for Oaks, including the $400,000 Alysheba (GII), the $300,000 Edgewood (GIII), the $500,000 La Troienne (GI), the Belles (GII), $250,000 Twin Spires Turf Sprint (GII).

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