Kentucky Derby 2022: Big crowds return to Churchill Downs after 2 years of COVID-19 restrictions
Racehorses run down the track at Churchill Downs ahead of the 147th Running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky, U.S. on Friday, April 30, 2021.The Kentucky Derby is the next major sporting event to move a step closer to normalcy after two years of upheaval adjusting to COVID-19 restrictions.
"I grew up here, so I’ve been expecting big things out of this year since it opened up to full capacity," Louisville native Brett Rebalsky said during Saturday night’s opening at the historic track. "Really, just seeing the city come alive again." And possibly, a bigger bottom line for a city whose identity still comes from the marquee sporting event.
Put it all together and hotels are filling up again. Occupancy citywide is estimated at 85%, 2% higher than in 2019. The downtown estimate of 94% is inching closer to the pre-pandemic 97% rate. Churchill Downs and its partners anticipate no such staffing issues for spectators after waiting three years to handle a packed house. The historic track will continue selling all-inclusive food and drink packages in reserved seating areas to reduce in-line wait times.
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