
The Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs is set for April 30, featuring 13 races culminating at 8:40 p.m. Fans like William and Dorothy Kania traveled from Northern Indiana to enjoy the event and share betting tips.
Mentioned in this story
Heading into Kentucky Derby Weekend, William and Dorothy Kania made the trip to Louisville from Northern Indiana with a plan.
They made the nearly five-hour trip from around Gary to the Wyndham East in Jeffersontown on April 30 and had burgers at Brass Social — “it was fantastic,” William Kania said in a May 1 interview at Churchill Downs. After that, it was time to rest up and get ready for a weekend at the races.
“Don’t be afraid to bet horses that ran good in their last race,” he advised first-timers. “The true handicappers will say, ‘Oh, that’s too easy.’ The horses that run good, they keep running good.”
The couple had their eye on Percy’s Bar in the Kentucky Oaks, the annual showcase for fillies run the day before the Kentucky Derby that was set to take place later that evening. A full card of 13 races was scheduled throughout the day, with the Oaks set to cap off the night at 8:40 p.m.
Whitney Ensor kisses her husband Howard Ensor while attending the 152nd running of the Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs on Friday, May 1, 2026. The Ensor's got engaged at the Kentucky Derby.
Carson Grisham of Dallas, Texas wearing a large fascinator for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
The Kentucky Oaks race is scheduled to start at 8:40 p.m. on April 30.
There are a total of 13 races scheduled throughout the day for the Kentucky Oaks.
William and Dorothy Kania traveled from Northern Indiana to attend the Kentucky Oaks.
William Kania advised first-timers to bet on horses that performed well in their last race.
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Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
Karen Boler wears a handmade fascinator at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Rhonda Stover of Delray Beach, Florida was wearing her mother-in-law's hat for the 25th time while she attends the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
Brent Taylor, from Oregon, bought a Racing Form from Annie Napier while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
Joe Kolok sr and jr, from New York and New Jersey, attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Shazia Manus, right, of Denver puts an arm around Kentuckuian Rhonda Hauser as the two walked around the grandstand area for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
People arrive at the gate while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Kristen Hansen took a selfie while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
The Meyers and Warner family’s get their picture taken while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Ozzie bought a Racing Form while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Dan and Karen Skeels got their picture taken while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Gilberto Arpero, from Texas, stopped to take a picture while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Carla Dickenson, left, scrubs stains out of Stephanie Dickenson’s jacket on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. The sisters-in-law had accidentally spilled a starbucks drink before arriving at Churchill Downs.
Fans line up to enter Churchill Downs before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Fans walk through Churchill Downs before races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Lines grow as fans line up to enter Churchill Downs before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Ellen Lance speaks to her husband before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Jeff Ketterman returns to his wife’s side after handing his phone to a bystander for a picture on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. Ketterman usually wears a distinct vintage style, even outside of derby week.
Carrie Cooke Ketterman sports a large hat on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Stephanie Connelly pulls down her heart-shaped sunglasses as she poses for a portrait on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. Stephanie’s glasses are from Krewe.
Dave Quiring sports a horse-themed jacket while holding a drink for a portrait on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
A Kentucky State Police officer talks to other members of the force in the Paddock before races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Tellers Desaray Johnson, left, and Tori Johnson prepare for the wagers that will be placed on horses on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
A fan carries an Oaks Lily cocktail through Churchill Downs on Thurby during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week in Louisville, Ky., on Thursday, April 30, 2026. An Oaks Lily cocktail is a signature cocktail made with vodka, cranberry juice blend, triple sec, and lime juice.
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Shayla Hunter walks at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Julie Thrasher carries a chocolate coverd strawberry at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Jake Elwood wears designer shoes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
Olivia Wu wears shoes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026. Wu says her outfit was inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Whitney Ensor kisses her husband Howard Ensor while attending the 152nd running of the Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs on Friday, May 1, 2026. The Ensor's got engaged at the Kentucky Derby.
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Whitney Ensor kisses her husband Howard Ensor while attending the 152nd running of the Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs on Friday, May 1, 2026. The Ensor's got engaged at the Kentucky Derby.
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Carson Grisham of Dallas, Texas wearing a large fascinator for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Karen Boler wears a handmade fascinator at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Rhonda Stover of Delray Beach, Florida was wearing her mother-in-law's hat for the 25th time while she attends the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Brent Taylor, from Oregon, bought a Racing Form from Annie Napier while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Joe Kolok sr and jr, from New York and New Jersey, attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Shazia Manus, right, of Denver puts an arm around Kentuckuian Rhonda Hauser as the two walked around the grandstand area for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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People arrive at the gate while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Kristen Hansen took a selfie while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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The Meyers and Warner family’s get their picture taken while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Ozzie bought a Racing Form while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Dan and Karen Skeels got their picture taken while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Gilberto Arpero, from Texas, stopped to take a picture while attending 2026 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs during the week of Kentucky Derby on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Carla Dickenson, left, scrubs stains out of Stephanie Dickenson’s jacket on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. The sisters-in-law had accidentally spilled a starbucks drink before arriving at Churchill Downs.
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Fans line up to enter Churchill Downs before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Fans walk through Churchill Downs before races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Lines grow as fans line up to enter Churchill Downs before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Ellen Lance speaks to her husband before the races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Jeff Ketterman returns to his wife’s side after handing his phone to a bystander for a picture on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. Ketterman usually wears a distinct vintage style, even outside of derby week.
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Carrie Cooke Ketterman sports a large hat on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Stephanie Connelly pulls down her heart-shaped sunglasses as she poses for a portrait on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026. Stephanie’s glasses are from Krewe.
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Dave Quiring sports a horse-themed jacket while holding a drink for a portrait on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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A Kentucky State Police officer talks to other members of the force in the Paddock before races begin on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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Tellers Desaray Johnson, left, and Tori Johnson prepare for the wagers that will be placed on horses on the 2026 Longines Kentucky Oaks day during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Friday, May 1, 2026.
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A fan carries an Oaks Lily cocktail through Churchill Downs on Thurby during the 2026 Kentucky Derby Week in Louisville, Ky., on Thursday, April 30, 2026. An Oaks Lily cocktail is a signature cocktail made with vodka, cranberry juice blend, triple sec, and lime juice.
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Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Shayla Hunter walks at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Julie Thrasher carries a chocolate coverd strawberry at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Jake Elwood wears designer shoes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Olivia Wu wears shoes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026. Wu says her outfit was inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
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Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
More Kentucky Oaks: Updated Kentucky Oaks odds for each horse in field at Churchill Downs
Oaks Day, which takes steps to recognize breast and ovarian cancer survivors, always brings a pink-filled crowd to Churchill Downs. There were 100,910 attendees in 2025 and 107,236 in attendance the year before.
The 2026 forecast was cooler than usual, with temperatures not expected to rise past the low 60s, but rain was not expected. The forecast for the May 2 Kentucky Derby is similar, with temperatures not likely to rise past the upper 50s.
It's a little chillier than the weather in Central Florida, where Johnna and Payne Luce live. The couple took photos outside Churchill Downs around noon on May 1 as they worked through the crowd to enter the racetrack.
They're here for the weekend, shelling out for all-inclusive tickets in the Ford First Turn reserved section. Johnna said it'll probably be the only time they make the trip, so they wanted the full experience. She didn't grow up around horses but would watch the Kentucky Derby every year with her grandma — "I've watched it ever since I was little and I love it."
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Zoe Gwozdz and Steve Miller during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Katrina and Adolph Thompkins during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Maria, Dan, and Nora Nedvidek during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Javier and Leslie Rodriguez during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Jason Engleman, Jimmy Lewis, Windy Engleman, and Denise Lewis during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Melanie And John Jones, Joyce And Rodney Wood, and Kathy Dutton during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Heidi Wilson, Lissa Capuson, April, Bliz, Nanci Hoolihan, and Diane Thomas during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Steve and Nancy Bailey during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Cheryl and Jay Dortch during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Judge Shannon Meyer and Amy Clay during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Cliff Hartman, Mike Hooligan, Marcus West, and Dana Wilson during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Katherine Metcalf and Autumn Enzweiler during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Michele and Steve Kelien during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Kathy Brohm, Maxann Newby, Teresa Goodin, and Margy Stivers during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Von Purdy, Rick Purdy, and Seema Sheth during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Rob King and Megan King during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Zoe Gwozdz and Steve Miller during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Katrina and Adolph Thompkins during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Maria, Dan, and Nora Nedvidek during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Javier and Leslie Rodriguez during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Jason Engleman, Jimmy Lewis, Windy Engleman, and Denise Lewis during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Melanie And John Jones, Joyce And Rodney Wood, and Kathy Dutton during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Heidi Wilson, Lissa Capuson, April, Bliz, Nanci Hoolihan, and Diane Thomas during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Steve and Nancy Bailey during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Cheryl and Jay Dortch during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Judge Shannon Meyer and Amy Clay during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Cliff Hartman, Mike Hooligan, Marcus West, and Dana Wilson during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Katherine Metcalf and Autumn Enzweiler during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Michele and Steve Kelien during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Kathy Brohm, Maxann Newby, Teresa Goodin, and Margy Stivers during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Von Purdy, Rick Purdy, and Seema Sheth during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Rob King and Megan King during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
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Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
"This has always been her dream," Payne Luce said. "She and her grandmother have shared a special bond over the Kentucky Derby."
Deb Woodcock also grew up watching the race. When she was young, she said, she wanted to be a Derby jockey when she was older.
"I had the height thing going,” she said with a laugh. “I love horses. I just love them.”
That particular dream may not have come to fruition, but Woodcook finally made it to the Derby this year in celebration of her 70th birthday. Her son, Eric Vavasek, surprised her with the trip from New York to Louisville for Woodcook’s milestone birthday.
“She doesn’t really watch a lot of live sporting events, but she never misses the Derby,” Vavasek told The Courier Journal. “To be able to do something for her that I know she’s really wanted to do just makes it extra special.”
When Woodcook found out about the gift, she started crying.
“I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “ I still can’t believe it."
Sipping on an Oaks Lily and snacking on mac-and-cheese bites, Woodcook wore a long pink dress peppered with black flowers and a matching floppy hat, decorated with a lily.
“Being here, it’s amazing,” she said of the “pinch me” day. “I don’t even have the words and I haven’t even seen the horses yet.”
Dressed in a long light pink cape, Linda Bonilla from West Palm Beach, Florida, said her look was inspired by “ballerina vibes” and staying warm. And Carrie Sweet, from Northern California, was dressed in pink polka dots with a scene from “Pretty Woman,” featuring superstar Julia Roberts, in mind.
Sweet, who chose to celebrate her upcoming 60th birthday with a trip to the Kentucky Oaks, said her dress “just spoke to me.”
“It's just the best sporting event,” Sweet said. “The people watching, the drinks, the whole vibe is so much fun.”
Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
Amber Kuntz poses for a photo on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Amber Kuntz poses for a photo on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Always scheduled for the first Saturday in May, this year's Kentucky Derby is set for May 2 at Churchill Downs. Gates at the famed Louisville racetrack open at 8 a.m. while the first race's post time is set for 11 a.m. The Derby, which will air on NBC, should start at 6:57 p.m.
Reach Amanda Hancock at ahancock@courier-journal.com. Reach Lucas Aulbach at laulbach@courier-journal.com.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Oaks brings crowd to Churchill Downs for Derby Weekend