(Edited press release)
Churchill Downs is introducing a new experience called the “Infield Club” for the 135th Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks (both gr. I) May 1 and 2, 2009, allowing fans the opportunity to enjoy the party atmosphere of the infield with an upgraded twist.
“We are always looking for new and innovative ways to enhance the Kentucky Derby and Oaks experience for our customers,” said Dave Tompkins, senior vice president of Churchill Downs Inc. “There’s a great deal of demand for unique hospitality areas at the Derby and Oaks, and the Infield Club is the perfect way to offer an exciting, comfortable, and affordable experience for our guests. It will offer the amenities and atmosphere of a sports bar in the midst of one of our country’s largest sporting and social events.”
The Infield Club will be a temporary facility constructed in a secured area in the center of the infield for Derby weekend. The Club’s amenities will include a horseshoe-shaped bar, private mutuel windows and self-serve betting machines, a JumboTron television, sports bar-style food offerings, a disc jockey, limited shaded seating areas, and upgraded restroom facilities.
Each ticket includes all-day track admission and Infield Club access. Through an introductory offer, tickets are currently available at a cost of $150 per person for Kentucky Derby Day, and $50 per person for Kentucky Oaks Day. Guests planning to attend both the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby can save money by purchasing a two-day ticket package to the Infield Club for $175. Prices are subject to change after Dec. 31.
Guests visiting Churchill Downs over the extended Thanksgiving weekend will have the opportunity to place advance orders for tickets to the Infield Club. Flyers and ticket order forms will be available at a tent in the paddock area Nov. 27-29. Also, beginning Nov. 27, tickets may be ordered online at www.kentuckyderby.com/infieldclub. Availability is limited and tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.