LEXINGTON, Ky. — Keeneland is rescheduling the first two days of its Spring Meet to ensure the safest environment for horses, participants and fans, according to a news release.

“This is definitely not a decision that was made on the economics. It was it was definitely a decision made on what's the best thing for the horse and our patrons and our fans,” said Shannon Arvin, Keeneland president and CEO.

Arvin said this is the first time in Keeneland's almost 90 year history that it has rescheduled races in advance because of severe weather. 

“Checked with Churchill and made sure that they would honor the Oaks and Derby points for the Ashland and the Bluegrass and they’re understanding of the situation, too. There really is such a community in Kentucky in general and specifically Lexington, but among the horsemen and horse tracks,” Arvin said.

The decision follows Gov. Andy Beshear’s state of emergency declaration ahead of potential severe weather, which is expected to impact the commonwealth beginning tonight, April 2, and could last up to four days.

“The safety of our equine and human participants, as well as of our fans, is at the core of every decision we make at Keeneland,” said Arvin. “Our team has spent months preparing for opening weekend, and we recognize the significant impact of rescheduling our two biggest race days. While we have navigated challenging weather in the past, the conditions being forecast for the region are unprecedented for Keeneland. Ultimately, ensuring the safety of everyone involved is our top priority.” 

Keeneland’s opening Friday, April 4 race card, including the $750,000 Central Bank Ashland (G1), will be rescheduled for Monday, April 7.

The Saturday, April 5 race card, featuring the $1.25 million Toyota Blue Grass (G1), will be rescheduled for Tuesday, April 8.

Mondays and Tuesdays are typically non-racing days.  

Keeneland said it will be closely monitoring track conditions and plans to run Sunday’s race card, which now will serve as opening day of the Spring Meet, as planned.  

For patrons who bought tickets for opening Friday and Saturday:

• Previously Purchased General Admission Tickets will be valid for single entry on any race day during the Spring Meet, including dates that are currently sold out.
• All Grandstand reserved seating, dining reservations and parking will automatically receive a full refund including fees. This credit will appear to the original purchaser up to seven business days after the refund is processed.
• Sunrise Trackside is canceled for opening Saturday and will resume Saturday, April 12. 
• Kids Club Family Day will be held as planned on Sunday, April 6, with slightly modified activities.  

For real-time updates on road conditions, Kentuckians can visit GoKY.ky.gov.

Download the free Spectrum News 1 app to stay up-to-date with the weather.