The Kentucky Derby was postponed this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The race was held on Sept. 5, 2020. The track was closed to visitors and people viewed the races from the comfort of their own home. It was televised and the Kentucky Derby website featured links to all of the information needed about favorite horses and placing bets without needing to get off the sofa.

Under normal circumstances, the race is held on the first Saturday in May, making it a fun way to kick off the month in which many people celebrate mother’s day. There are a number of longtime traditions that can be enjoyed there at the dirt track, Churchill Downs, which the Derby calls “the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875.”

Some of the usual festivities include sipping mint juleps, getting dressed up, wearing festive hats and admiring the beautiful architecture. The winning horse receives a garland of red roses, leading the race to be nicknamed the “Run for the Roses.” Families can enjoy the springtime sun with the chance to win large amounts of money by placing $1 bets on the horses, purchasing mementos and taking photographs in the winners’ circle.

While COVID-19 prevented in-person activities, the race went on without spectators in the stands. The winners were (1st place) #18 Authentic, (2nd place) #17 Tiz the Law, and (3rd place) #9 Mr. Big News. The payouts for a $2 Exacta (18-17) paid $41.00, a $1 Trifecta (18-17-9) paid $1,311.80 and a $1 Superfecta (18-17-9-16) paid $7,925.80.