Derby deluge: Storms fail to put damper on racing, parties at rain-soaked Churchill Downs

Storms making for wet and wild Kentucky Derby

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — It’s looking like a soggy — and windy — Kentucky Derby.

A steady rain fell Saturday afternoon at Churchill Downs and turned the dirt into a muddy soup. Well over an inch fell by 4 p.m. EDT and was joined by a steady wind that included gusts over 20 mph.

The weather forced officials to move some of the turf races to the dirt track, leading to numerous scratches. There were no defections from the 20-horse Derby field, which is set for a 6:28 p.m. EDT. There’s a chance the storms could cease by post time.

The weather did little to deter fans. Over 155,000 braved the elements, an actual uptick from last year’s race.

A tent city popped up on infield as spectators fought to stay dry.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — It’s looking like a soggy Kentucky Derby.

Heavy rains doused Churchill Downs early Saturday morning and turned the dirt into a muddy soup. Well over an inch fell by 12 p.m. EDT and the National Weather Service says there’s a 70 percent chance of storms when the Run for the Roses goes off at 6:28 EDT.

The weather forced officials to move the turf races to the dirt track, leading to numerous scratches. There were no defections from the 20-horse Derby field.

The weather did little to deter fans. A tent city popped up on infield as spectators fought to stay dry. In the grandstand fans tried to stand out in their Derby best but the biggest fashion accessory of the day were ponchos of various colors.