A wet 'Winsday' at Churchill Downs doesn't dampen the flare of Kentucky Derby Week

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A rainy night and morning cleared out Wednesday for another big day at Churchill Downs, with race fans flocking to the track in their best suits and fascinators for "Winsday."

People paid a pretty penny for their outfits and tickets, and, on Winsday, some of that money goes right back into the Louisville community. From every ticket sold, $5 is donated to one of 50 local nonprofits, including Animal Care Society, Catholic Charities of Louisville, Kentucky Performing Arts foundation and Seth's Squad — everything from pediatric cancer to care for retired thoroughbred horses.

"I think it's a wonderful thing to keep giving back as much as we utilize these horses," Nyla Nims said. "It's great to be able to share some of that love back."

And there's great time to be had, too. With drinks flowing and wagers placed, everything finds something to love about Winsday. Fun suit patterns, bold colored dresses, pastel fascinators and statement hats flood into Churchill Downs.

"It's just nice to see everybody out smiling and dressed up," Nims said.

While the rain may have dampened some outfits — ponchos were a popular fashion statement — the party roared on for dozens of good causes.

Plus, 20 of the charities were randomly paired with a Kentucky Derby post position for Saturday. The horse that wins the Derby will also win $20,000 for their assigned charity.

"It's nice that such a big event is spread out over a number of days so that local nonprofits can benefit," Rick Davis said.

For a guide to all Derby week information, click here. And here's a schedule for the rest of the week at Churchill Downs: