Seasoned quick Way To The Stars heads back to his native state after more than 12 months interstate, tackling Hawkesbury with trainer Matt Smith forecasting a competitive effort.
As a two-time Listed winner, the gelding encountered fair issues in recent runs, drawing wide in the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) with no luck, then struggling on the soft Flemington surface last occasion.
The Hawkesbury Gold Rush (1100m) offers his ideal firm footing, and Smith highlights barrier three as a bonus for the 14-horse lineup.
“We had no hope in the Oakleigh Plate from the outside gate. We probably should have scratched,” Smith said.
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“And then we ran on a track that was wet in Melbourne, and he didn’t like that at all.
“I think he is back to his best. He’s a horse that needs to get his first 400 right, and if he can get that right, he can be competitive.”
With five weeks off and a trial under his belt, Way To The Stars is primed for Saturday.
Smith rates Nash Rawiller’s mount highly in this wide-open affair.
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“He’s been up at the farm for a few weeks and has done a bit of work on the sand. He had that trial and he’s good to go. He’s fresh, fit, well,” he said.
“It’s a good race. There are plenty of chances in it, and he’s one of them.”
Barnmate World Alliance is on standby for a Hawkesbury Gold Rush berth pending more scratches, and entry would see him as a threat.
Three-from-four first-up wins, track and distance suitability, plus draw four next to Way To The Stars enhance his claims for the six-year-old.
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“If he gets the right set-up, he is always dangerous,” Smith said.
“He needs tempo, which he’ll get here.
“He’s fit, and he’s well and I can’t fault him. His work was sharp on Tuesday morning so he’s ready to go.”
Promising gelding Golden Straand gets Smith’s backing to keep climbing in the Blake’s Marine Handicap (1100m), after a fresh win at Warwick Farm took him to four successes from nine starts.
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“He’s a really good horse. He could be in that stakes race, but he’s going through his grades,” Smith said.
“He’ll be very hard to beat in that race.
“He could end up in Queensland, for sure. The only thing with him is he needs good ground. His only blemish was on a wet track at Randwick, and he didn’t go on that at all.”
The 2022 champions, India, have advanced to the semifinals of the Thomas Cup 2026 on Friday, following a resounding 3-0 victory over Chinese Taipei in the quarterfinals held in Horsens, Denmark.
The result was secured in the first three matches of the tie, eliminating the need for the final two scheduled games. India will now face the winner of the France vs. Japan quarterfinal in the semifinals.
Lakshya gives India the lead
The quarterfinal opened with a classic encounter between Lakshya Sen and the veteran Chou Tien Chen. For a while, it looked like India would be chasing the tie; Lakshya dropped the first game 18-21 and found himself trailing 6-12 in the second.
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Staring at defeat, the Indian ace showed incredible mental toughness, saving match points to snatch the second game 22-20. With the momentum firmly shifted, Lakshya exploited Chou’s fatigue in the decider, using sharp drops and relentless court coverage to secure an 18-21, 22-20, 21-17 victory, giving India a vital 1-0 cushion.
Satwiksairaj-Chirag secures a three-game thriller
The doubles powerhouse duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty then took the court to face Chiu Hsiang Chieh and Wang Chi-lin. It was a marathon battle that tested the Indians’ patience, especially after they lost a tight second game to force a decider.
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Despite a few uncharacteristic service errors, “Sat-Chi” regained their world-class form when it mattered most. They dominated the third game from the opening serve, racing to an 11-5 lead at the interval and eventually closing out the match 23-21, 19-21, 21-12. Their victory put India 2-0 up and left Chinese Taipei with a mountain too steep to climb.
Ayush Shetty seals the win
The knockout blow was delivered by young Ayush Shetty, who faced a personal demon in Lin Chun-Yi. Having never beaten Lin before, Ayush initially struggled, trailing 7-11 in the first game. However, a spectacular tactical shift saw him win 14 of the next 17 points to take the opening set.
In the second game, Ayush remained the “calm and composed” figure the Indian camp needed. He dictated the tempo and kept Lin under constant pressure, finishing the match 21-16, 21-17. By securing the straight-games win, Ayush completed the 3-0 sweep and officially punched India’s ticket to the semifinals.
WWE had to cancel a major Backlash match. The premium live event will emanate from Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida, on Satuday, May 9, and three matches have already been confirmed.
Roman Reings will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Jacob Fatu after the Samoan Werewolf brutally attacked OTC1 on RAW this week. Seth Rollins also confronted Bron Breakker, and the two will clash at the weekend.
Thanks for the submission!
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The third match announced so far will see Asuka battle IYO SKY. Going by WWE’s new trend of keeping match cards short, another couple of matches could be added to the night. However, it appears the promotion had to cancel a planned match for the event.
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In the recent edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter (WON), Dave Meltzer mentioned that two or three more matches could be expected to be added to Backlash. He then noted that even though Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan vs. Stephanie Vaquer was not officially on the card, it was in discussion before La Primera’s injury.
Real reason behind Reigns vs. Fatu revealed – Check here!
Vaquer was taken out backstage in an attack by The Judgment Day’s Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez. This angle was carried out because the former Women’s World Champion was dealing with a legitimate injury.
Vaquer and Morgan clashed at WrestleMania 42 for the Women’s World Championship, and it looks like WWE may have been contemplating a rematch between the two for Backlash. But now it looks unlikely due to the injury of the 33-year-old star.
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Earlier, Wrestlevotes Radio on Fightful Select reported that Stephanie Vaquer will be out of action “for the foreseeable future,” with talk of at least a six-week absence. Still, it is hoped that she could return in time for SummerSlam.
Stephanie Vaquer was not 100% heading into WWE WrestleMania 42 match
Ahead of WrestleMania 42, Stephanie Vaquer appeared for an interview on INSIGHT with Chris Van Vliet. During the discussion, she said that she needs to recover and mentioned she isn’t at 100% for the Show of Shows.
Her Title match against Liv Morgan on night one of WrestleMania lasted barely seven minutes. This drew criticism from the fans, but there was a reason why WWE kept the match short.
Champion jockey Craig Williams, who was runner-up last year, is making his way back to Rockhampton for Sunday’s $1 million The Archer (1300m), tapped to ride Robert Heathcote’s Rothfire.
The Rockhampton Jockey Club gains a huge boost from this horse-rider duo as the slot race hits its fifth anniversary.
On the previous year’s Rockhampton meeting, Williams had two rides, including second in The Archer on Comrade Rosa for Tony Gollan, and he shared his positive outlook on returning post-Adelaide on Saturday and Hong Kong on Sunday.
“I ran second in the race last year,” Williams said.
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“I enjoyed my time up there, it’s a million-dollar race and I ran second so naturally I want to win it now.
An eight-year-old gelding, Rothfire co-leads the official ratings with Lindsay Park’s Group One champ Here To Shock, one point clear of Yellow Brick, last year’s Stradbroke Handicap runner-up.
Williams guided Rothfire to seventh in last year’s Stradbroke and is keen to reconnect with the ‘Thriller from Chinchilla’.
“He’s going to be one of the best weighted horses in the race,” Williams said.
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“He’s the best rated horse in the race. Whether that means he can win is another thing because it’ll be a strong race, but I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
With set weights and penalties in play for The Archer, Rothfire shoulders 57.5kg compared to Here To Shock’s 59.5kg earned from victory in New Zealand’s Group 1 BCD Sprint (1400m).
Rothfire sits at $6 in early third-line betting for The Archer, following Yellow Brick at $4.
Discover leading betting sites offering racing betting markets for this key 2026 event.
Lossiemouth put the seal on another excellent season by winning the Champion Hurdle at Punchestown on Friday.
The Willie Mullins-trained mare, a 2-7 favourite, was a comfortable winner of the two-mile Grade One race, kicking clear approaching the last and ultimately having five lengths to spare over Golden Ace (11-1) at the finishing post.
Ridden by Paul Townend, Lossiemouth has now won four races from four starts at the County Kildare course and has notched up 11 Grade One victories.
The grey had secured a fourth Cheltenham Festival success in the Champion Hurdle at Prestbury Park last month.
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Townend, meanwhile, has been enjoying a purple patch, riding Gaelic Warrior to success in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March and then I Am Maximus to a Grand National triumph in April.
“A brilliant season,” reflected winning jockey Townend, speaking to RTE at the end of the race.
“I’m in the right camp to be on these very good horses – I’m very fortunate,” he added.
For Mullins it was a fourth consecutive success in the Punchestown Champion Hurdle, coming on the back of a hat-trick for State Man.
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Wilful (16/1) finished third.
Earlier, the Mullins-Townend trainer-jockey combination had yielded dividends again as 8-13 favourite King Rasko Grey won the Champion Novice Hurdle by a head from Lord Byren (7-1).
The winning horse held off a late challenge from the second-place finisher, with Kiely’s Place (10-1) third.
NEW DELHI: A marquee battle is set to headline Friday’s IPL 2026 clash as Mitchell Starc makes his season debut for the Delhi Capitals, setting up a mouth-watering contest against teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi when they face the Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur.
RR skipper Riyan Parag won the toss and opted to bat first at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, pointing to surface conditions as a key factor.
“We’re going to bat first. I think it’s not the usual Jaipur wicket. It’s a bit dry; we noticed that yesterday and the pitch played a little faster the other day. So hopefully it gets a little slow in the back end, so that’s why we’re batting first. (On the win against Punjab Kings) I think the middle order and lower order finished it like the way they did and the openers as usual started really brilliantly. But as a collective team effort, chasing down 220 always helps. Everyone’s stepping up. That has been the motto, like, as I was saying, we haven’t been playing proper and complete cricket for 40 overs. Hopefully we can narrow it down as the tournament reaches the business end. Another show today and we can rest for a few days. Bishnoi comes back in and Shubham is into the main team,” Parag said.
Starc returns as DC ring changes
The bigger headline, however, came from the DC camp, with Starc finally featuring this season, adding firepower to their pace attack. His duel with Sooryavanshi at the top is expected to set the tone early.
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DC captain Axar Patel confirmed three changes in the XI as the side looks for a turnaround in a tightening playoff race.
“Starc is playing, Chameera isn’t playing. Pathum is playing, which means David Miller sits out. Ashok Sharma is there, so there are three changes. We have three changes, the wicket looks good and we’re happy to chase. It’s important to return to basics. You need to stay in the present to turn things around, focus on the positives. Attitude and body language are very important,” Axar said.
With both teams making tweaks and chasing consistency, the encounter carries added significance. But the early exchanges promise the biggest thrill — Starc steaming in with pace and precision, and Sooryavanshi ready to counterattack in what could define the contest.
Dec 7, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs punter Brett Thorson (92) punts the ball to the Texas Longhorns during the first half in the 2024 SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
When free agency opened, the most notable name the Minnesota Vikings lost was wide receiver Jalen Nailor.
They never intended to keep him at an inflated contract to be their third wide receiver, but he did well in his deal from Las Vegas.
Brett Thorson Brings Legitimate Competition to Vikings Punter Room
Potentially getting lost in the shuffle from Nailor moving teams was punter Ryan Wright flying the coop as well. He left Minnesota for greener pastures with the New Orleans Saints. While his career traditionally bounced between good and bad years, he was coming off a season in which the Vikings would have liked to keep him.
They pivoted and landed on veteran punter Johnny Hekker. However, Hekker has been trending down for some time now, and he is very clearly at the end of the line.
It would have been a shock to see the Vikings use a draft pick on a punter. Despite grabbing Will Reichard with a late-round pick, he has the utility of being a kicker. However, Brett Thorson came into The Draft as the nation’s best punter, and Minnesota was clearly enamored.
They didn’t need to use a draft pick on him, and wound up getting him anyway. Signed as an undrafted free agent, the Georgia Bulldog racked up accolades in the SEC. He now comes to what will be a punting competition in Minnesota, but even with Hekker’s presence, it’s one he could very well win.
Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Brett Thorson of Georgia punts the ball during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Thorson can boom the football, but he’s also more than capable of using finesse. Pinning punts inside the 20-yard line, or offering up enough hang time for the coverage unit to get down the field, are both in his toolbox as well.
More often than not, NFL teams cycle through kickers and punters. Veterans stick around forever and rarely find tenure with teams. Reichard looks the part of a kicker like that for the Vikings, and Thorson replicating it as a punter would be a lot of fun.
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Ted Schwerzler is a Minneapolis based blogger that covers the Minnesota Twins and Vikings. Sharing thoughts constantly on Twitter, … More about Ted Schwerzler
Marcus Rashford’s future has yet to be decided as Paul Scholes informed the Manchester United loanee of what his future could look like
Marcus Rashford has been warned against a return to Manchester United after Paul Scholes delivered a harsh assessment of the winger’s potential prospects.
It has been a genuine return to form for the England forward in Spain, having contributed 13 goals and 13 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. Rashford has made no secret of his wish to remain at Barcelona, but negotiations between the Spanish giants and United have hit a wall.
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His future has been a persistent talking point throughout the year and was raised on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast featuring United legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt.
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When quizzed by host Paddy McGuinness on whether they’d like to see Rashford pull on the red shirt once more, both answered with a firm no. Scholes went on to suggest the United loanee will only ever fill a squad role at Barcelona.
Having managed just 15 league starts this season, including a mere two in their last nine matches, Rashford has struggled to cement himself as an indispensable figure under Barca manager Hansi Flick.
Scholes said: “At Barcelona, he only ever will be back-up to Raphinha and Yamal. It’s down to the lad, does he want to go to maybe a Villa or that type of club where he’ll probably play every week.”
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Butt conceded that Rashford’s recent lack of starts would push him towards joining another club this summer. He added: “I think Marcus has made that break now and that’s probably the toughest thing he’s had to do because I’ve done it, to leave the club that you’ve been brought up with and been there that long.
“That’s the hardest part, is that initial break and he went to Villa and had a great little start. I think it’s started off well at Barcelona and for some reason he’s not getting games now and I think he will go somewhere else.
“It’s just where and who can afford the money.” Butt argued that the United academy product must secure a move to a club where regular football is guaranteed to get the very best from him. The former England midfielder explained: “Marcus needs to play every single week.
“We’ve known him from a young age, he needs confidence, an arm around him and then you’ll have an unbelievable talent. When he’s a bit-part player and not playing every week and he’s not feeling loved, that’s when he loses the love of football.”
Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package
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Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.
Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.
Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive back Caleb Downs is selected by the Dallas Cowboys as the number eleven pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Dallas Cowboys signed six of their seven picks from the 2026 NFL Draft on Friday, including first-round selection Caleb Downs to his four-year rookie deal.
Downs, the 11th overall pick of the draft, will receive $28.95 million in fully guaranteed money that includes a $17.5 million signing bonus. The deal also includes a fifth-year team option.
The Cowboys traded up one spot with the Miami Dolphins to acquire Downs, a safety. Dallas has yet to sign its other first-round pick, edge rusher Malachi Lawrence, who was selected with the 23rd overall pick.
Downs, a two-time consensus All-American, was named the 2025 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year at Ohio State and took home the Jim Thorpe Award and Lott Trophy.
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His career totals include 164 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, six interceptions and three forced fumbles in 44 games for Alabama (2023) and Ohio State (2024-25).
In addition to Downs, the Cowboys signed third-round linebacker Jaishawn Barham, fourth-round tackle Drew Shelton, fourth-round cornerback Devin Moore, fourth-round edge rusher LT Overton and seventh-round wide receiver Anthony Smith.
Renegade is the 4-1 favorite in the 2026 Kentucky Derby odds ahead of the 152nd Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on Saturday, May 2. The 20-horse field will depart from the gates at 6:57 p.m. ET and the winner will try to go on to become the first Triple Crown winner in the sport since 2018. Bet the Kentucky Derby with the exclusive TwinSpires offer code CBSSPORTS to receive up to $400 in bonus bets here, double what’s available to the general public:
Hochman has shown a profit in 22 of the past 39 Triple Crown races. One example of his best picks was Big Brown in the 2008 Kentucky Derby at odds of 2-1. More recently, he swept the 2022 Triple Crown, capped off by Mo Donegal’s easy win in the Belmont Stakes. In 2023, he cashed the Preakness with National Treasure. In 2024, he successfully tabbed Straight No Chaser to win, place and show in the Grade 2 Santa Anita Sprint Championship at odds of 3-2.
Hochman delivered exceptional handicapping results during the summer 2025 racing season at two of the country’s premier tracks, Saratoga and Del Mar. His combined 65.7% win rate across the two tracks represents elite-level performance that significantly exceeds industry benchmarks for professional handicappers.
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Now, Hochman has handicapped the 2026 Kentucky Derby field and revealed his picks. Go here to see them.
Top 2026 Kentucky Derby predictions
One of Hochman’s surprising 2026 Kentucky Derby picks: One issue with Commandment is his slowdowns at the end of the course, which is a problem given the Kentucky Derby is longer than the Florida Derby. There’s also the issue of jockey of Luis Saez lacking Derby success. Saez has 12 starts in the Kentucky Derby and not only has he never won, but he’s never finished in the top two.
“Despite winning the Florida Derby, Commandment’s 1:49.99 race time is slow compared to recent winners. His peak came in the Fountain of Youth, posting a 99 Equibase Speed Figure, but he dropped to 96 in the Florida Derby. Both finishes were razor-thin-a nose and a neck-revealing his difficulty in separating from rivals when it counts,” Hochman told SportsLine. “Additionally, Commandment’s jockey situation adds uncertainty.” See who to back at SportsLine.
Another stunner: Hochman is high on The Puma, who is 10-1 and comes into the 2026 Kentucky Derby off a close loss in the Florida Derby. The Puma has strong connections with jockey Javier Castellano and trainer Gustavo Delgado, who are re-united after winning the 2023 Kentucky Derby with Mage. Castellano went on to also win the 2023 Belmont Stakes atop a different horse, showing his versatility as a jockey and his ability to get the best out of whatever horse he’s steering.
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“The Puma has shown grit in every race and should be a key factor in exotic wagers with improving speed figures in every start and is a dangerous contender at a square price,” Hochman says. “He finished a close second in the Florida Derby but earned a significantly faster Thoro-graph number (2½) than the winner, Commandment, thanks to his wide trip. Running the final three-eights of a mile in 36.89 seconds and the final eighth in 12.68 seconds should serve him well.” See which other horses to back at SportsLine, and you can sign up for FanDuel Racing here to get $25 in bonuses with a $5 wager:
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.
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“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.”
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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.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Karen Boler wears a handmade fascinator at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Unique hats and fascinators for the 2026 Kentucky Oaks during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun 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.
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Shayla Hunter walks at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Jake Elwood wears designer shoes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
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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Kentucky Oaks 2026 fashion, fans and fun at Churchill Downs
Scenes at Churchill Downs on Oaks, one day before 2026 Kentucky Derby. May 1, 2026
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.
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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.”
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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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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Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
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.”
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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.”
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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.
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“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.
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Sweet, who chose to celebrate her upcoming 60th birthday with a trip to the Kentucky Oaks, said her dress “just spoke to me.”
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“It’s just the best sporting event,” Sweet said. “The people watching, the drinks, the whole vibe is so much fun.”
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
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.
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Reach Amanda Hancock at ahancock@courier-journal.com. Reach Lucas Aulbach at laulbach@courier-journal.com.
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