By the end of this week, the temperatures may turn a bit crisper, the leaves a bit more yellow or red, and horses will turn for home. These are all signs of another fall racing meet at Keeneland.
The start of the 17 days of Thoroughbred racing at the historic track is Friday afternoon. Amy Gregory is the director of communications at Keeneland. She said this weekend features 11 stakes races, eight of which are part of the lead-up to the world championships in just over a month.
“If you come out opening weekend you’re get to see horses that are making probably their last start before the Breeders Cup at Santa Anita in early November,” said Gregory.
Gregory noted the meet will once again feature special events like college scholarships, Make a Wish, and teacher appreciation days. All tickets for the fall meet must be purchased online. Gregory added the startup of sports wagering won’t impact activities at the track.
She said a patron cap of about 22,000 allows people to move around freely and enjoy race day.
“For our staff to provide fans with a truly memorable experience where you don’t have to stand in a long line for wagering or food or you can stand around the paddock and see the horses being saddled. That is really our sweet spot right around that number,” said Gregory.
Gregory said prior to the COVID pandemic there was no such a cap and crowds on weekends would swell to 30,000 or more. Gregory added the experience always includes an opportunity for burgoo, corned beef sandwiches, and bread pudding.
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