Keeneland Reschedules Opening Weekend Amid Severe Weather Forecast

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Keeneland has postponed the first two days of its 2025 Spring Meet due to a forecast of severe weather, including potential flooding across the region. Originally scheduled to begin on Friday, the racing events have been rescheduled to Monday and Tuesday, with Sunday serving as the new Opening Day.

Track officials made the announcement on Wednesday and emphasized that they are closely monitoring track conditions ahead of the event. “The conditions being forecast for the region are unprecedented for Keeneland,” said Shannon Arvin, track president and CEO. “The safety of our equine and human participants, as well as our fans, is at the core of every decision we make.”

The last time races were canceled at Keeneland was in 2015, when inclement weather forced the track to call off the final four races of the Spring Meet. This year, Keeneland’s Spring Meet runs through April 25.

For those who purchased tickets for the original Friday and Saturday events, Keeneland will provide a presale opportunity for new tickets to Monday and Tuesday’s races. Affected ticket holders will receive an email with instructions. Free general admission will be available to all guests on both new race days, eliminating ticket purchase requirements.

Monday’s card will feature the Central Bank Ashland, while Tuesday will showcase the Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, both critical prep races for the Kentucky Oaks (Grade 1) and Kentucky Derby (Grade 1) respectively. Keeneland officials are providing ongoing updates on the changes to the opening weekend; guests are encouraged to check their website for the latest information.

Gatewood Bell, Keeneland’s Vice President of Racing, noted that the decision was made after consultations with horsemen and meteorologists. He stated, “We believe rescheduling these race days is the best way to take care of each other.”