And if you don’t want the buffet breakfast it’s free! Just show up at the lot on the backside of Churchill Downs between 7am and 8:15 or so — plan to stay until 9am. Get right on the rail to see Ky Derby and Ky Oaks contenders work out. Bring your coffee, perhaps some breakfast pastries and a friend. Don’t forget your camera.
Dawn at the Downs is an event hosted by Churchill Downs on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of Derby week. Dress up and join an expert guest speaker for a breakfast buffet (you do need a paid ticket for this!) from Millionaire’s Row. After you’re done eating, you can watch the workouts from the 4th floor as the horses and activity on the track is explained.
But it’s at the rail where you can feel the thunder as these horses speed past you during their workouts. Its a great event that shouldn’t be missed!