Derby morning workouts canceled, turf races moved to dirt track amid heavy rainfall

Rain cancels pre-Derby workouts

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Heavy rain has postponed early morning workouts at Churchill Downs, where all 20 Kentucky Derby horses are still expected to start.

Most turf races were being moved to the main dirt track Saturday, at least until late in the day. That sparked numerous scratches in minor races. Kentucky state veterinarian Bryce Peckham said he knew of at least 15-20 horses that wouldn’t be running in the Derby undercard.

Many trainers, including Nick Zito and D. Wayne Lukas, were out early to watch their horses walk inside their covered barns instead of the track.

The National Weather Service says only light rainfall is expected Saturday afternoon ahead of the 6:28 p.m. Derby post, with heavier showers overnight.