For the first time since 2001, the security procedures for the Kentucky Derby and Oaks will be changed to allow coolers in the infield for 2009. While most security procedures will remain the same, this is a significant relaxation of the rules, but fans will still be restricted in what they can bring in their coolers and which gates they can enter. As usual, patrons who attend the historic track's marquee events should expect magnetic wands and searches of all items brought in at all Churchill Downs entrances and limits on the types of items they may carry into the track.
Coolers will be allowed in the Churchill Downs infield only on Kentucky Oaks Day and Kentucky Derby Day. Patrons may carry coolers into the track only through Gates 1 and 3, the traditional "infield gates," and all coolers will be subject to search. Alcoholic beverages and glass containers of any kind will not be allowed in those coolers. Permitted contents include ice, non-alcoholic beverages in non-glass containers, and food packaged in clear plastic containers or bags. The maximum size of those clear containers and plastic bags remains at 18" x 18".
With the ban on coolers lifted, there will no longer be a "general store" in the infield. Fans who have become used to using this store, should take note and either bring their own food and drinks or be prepared to buy them from the regular concessions.
Here is a full list of the security policies as well as the items allowed and prohibited at the track on Kentucky Oaks and Derby day. If you are attending in person, review these carefully to avoid having any of your property confiscated at the gates as you and anything you bring in will be searched. There are several huge dumpsters at each entrance just for that purpose, so read the rules carefully!
Items that may be carried by patrons through all admission gates at Churchill Downs unless otherwise noted include:
- Food items in clear plastic bags, limit two per person (maximum size 18"x 18," no trash bags)
- "Box" lunches if packaged in clear plastic bags or plastic containers, limit two per person (maximum size 18"x 18," no trash bags)
- Sunscreen (non-glass containers only)
- Cellular telephones, cameras, and camcorders (patrons may be required to turn electronic items 'on' before entry is allowed)
- Small personal music systems, radios, and televisions, no "boom boxes"
- Binoculars
- Purses and baby bags (all subject to search)
- Strollers (only if carrying a child--no other items allowed)
- Seat cushions (no backs)
- Chairs (Gate 3 only)
- Blankets (Gates 1 and 3 for infield use only)
- Tarpaulins (Gates 1 and 3 for infield use only)
- Alcoholic beverages of any kind
- Glass bottles or containers
- Weapons of any kind (including all knives and scissors)
- Thermoses
- Grills
- Backpacks, luggage (includes briefcases), and duffel bags
- Wagons
- Umbrellas (always a ton of these in the dumpsters by the entrance on rainy days)
Security procedures and policies for the Kentucky Derby and Oaks include:
- Magnetic wand searches of patrons at all track entrance gates
- Limits on carry-in items for patrons and employees
- Visibility of security personnel in all areas of the track
- Placement of barriers outside the track's admission gates
- Security sweeps of vehicles (buses, limousines and vendor vehicles that enter the track)
- Vehicles parked in all Churchill Downs lots are subject to search.
