Equestrian fans across the world are gearing up for the 149th Grand Kentucky Derby, 2023, scheduled on the 6th of May. The derby will be preceded by Kentucky Oaks on May 5th. The Kentucky Derby is not just about the horse race but includes a variety of traditions that reflects the Louisville culture and tradition which have been preserved for years. 

Annually, the Kentucky Derby attracts nearly 1,50,000 spectators from across the world, as it is considered to be the ‘Greatest Bucket-List Sporting Event’. However, to accommodate such a humongous crowd is no small feat. And Churchill Downs is getting ready with a new $90,000,000 Kentucky Derby Project just for that growing appetite.

The million-dollar First Turn project will kick off at the Derby

The First Turn project is an ambitious seating project to accommodate Kentucky Derby’s live spectators. The project, amounting to $90 million, has increased the number of reserved seats by 3,700. The newly built infrastructure includes the First Turn Club and the new stadium with a total seating capacity of 7,100. 

The first floor of the structure accommodates the First Turn Club with 2,000 viewers with a spectacular trackside terrace reserved for watching the race. While the new permanent stadium located above the First Turn Club offers seating arrangements for 5,100 match spectators.

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Darren Rogers of Churchill Downs referring to the First Turn project says, “ Well, this is, of course, a modern upgrade.”  “We have to modernize Churchill Downs and keep it going. But again respect those traditions, respect the history,” he adds revealing the future plans of the management.

Provisions provided during the race

The new infrastructure also provides a community dining area for spectators to dine in a fine ambiance and offers quality cuisine. It also features a 360-degree video board. The ticket buyers get a two-day package which includes a program per day, food, alcohol, and non-alcohol drinks. The cost of one seat in the magnificent new building is $2,624.

Originally The First Turn Reserved Seating was recognized as the Vineyard Vines Club Section 110. The derby fans can witness the popular Kentucky Derby Walkover from the First Turn area with a sheltered and pleasant padded seating capacity.

Watch the story here: ‘Incredible’ $90,000,000 Kentucky Derby project gives fans a major boost to watch the horse racing extravaganza