Churchill to Maintain Enhanced Security for Oaks, Derby

Enhanced security measures used the past two years for the Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) and Kentucky Derby (gr. I) will once again be in effect for this year's runnings, officials for Churchill Downs said Wednesday.

Limits on the type of items allowed in Churchill Downs will again be in place and all persons entering the grandstand, clubhouse, and infield will be searched with a magnetic wand.

Among the items prohibited from entering the facility are bottles and cans of any kind (including lotion containers), coolers, backpacks and duffel bags, umbrellas, and grills.

Food items in clear plastic bags will be allowed, as will radios, binoculars, purses (subject to search), chairs, blankets, and tarpaulins.

A "general store" offering food and drink at prices comparable to outside stores will again be located in the infield.

A total of 35 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies will be involved in the security effort. There will be security sweeps of vehicles entering the track and all vehicles parked in Churchill Downs' lots will be subject to search.

"Our hospitality and security procedures and policies for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks have worked well over the past two years and, on the recommendation of our law enforcement partners, we have decided to continue those procedures for another year," said Churchill Downs president Steve Sexton. "Based on the recommendations and study by these law enforcement and safety professionals, we believe that continuing those policies is the right thing to do."