PREVIEW: Churchill Downs gives look at 'reimagined' paddock ahead of Derby 150
The $200 million project adds more space for fans while respecting history
The $200 million project adds more space for fans while respecting history
The $200 million project adds more space for fans while respecting history
The 150th Kentucky Derby will feature a completed paddock project near the front of the venue to give fans a more intimate look at horses and jockeys, even for general admission ticket holders.
"Really transforms the look and the feel of the facility right from when you walk in through the paddock gates, you're going to see horses," said Darren Rogers, spokesperson for Churchill Downs. "We've got 3200 standing-room-only spaces. We've created 3600 new seating opportunities. And then it's situated right beneath the twin spires. I think it puts the twin spires back in focus."
Between premium club seating and 3200 new standing-room-only ticket spaces, the project's high-tech upgrades will enhance the fan experience.
"People love to see the horses up close and personal. They like to see them saddle. There's something majestic when the jockey gets a leg up," Rogers said. "This paddock is arguably going to become the best paddock in the world from the circular viewing aspects to the state-of-the-art video boards, the audio experience. There'll be graphics and video boards above each stall, so you'll be able to see the horse's name, its odds right beneath the stall."
These upgrades also respect Churchill Downs' history.
"I think my favorite aspect of it is the incorporation of the original grandstand from 1895," Rogers said. "You're going to see some bricks. The old president's hallway is just where the Blue Moon bar used to be. That walkway is unique. There's different skylines that I didn't even know were there."