17th March 2020 - The Kentucky Derby has been postponed until September 5 due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Churchill Downs announced on Tuesday that the 146th running of the historic race would not take place in its usual slot on the first Saturday of May, with the Kentucky Oaks now planned for September 4. The new dates are subject to the approval of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission.
There were 25 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Kentucky and one death as of Monday night.
Bill Carstanjen, Churchill Downs Incorporated chief executive, said: "Throughout the rapid development of the Covid-19 pandemic, our first priority has been how to best protect the safety and health of our guests, team members and community.
"As the situation evolved, we steadily made all necessary operational adjustments to provide the safest experience and environment. The most recent developments have led us to make some very difficult, but we believe, necessary decisions and our hearts are with those who have been or continue to be affected by this pandemic.
"Our team is united in our commitment to holding the very best Kentucky Derby and certainly the most unique in any of our lifetimes. While we're always respectful of the time-honored traditions of the Kentucky Derby, our company’s true legacy is one of resilience, the embracing of change and unshakeable resolve."
Country House won the race last year after Maximum Security was disqualified, while Justify was successful the previous year on the way to becoming the 13th horse to complete the prestigious US Triple Crown.
The NBA and NHL are among other leading sports events in the US to have suspended play, while the Masters has been postponed.
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