Keeneland’s Spring Meet draws big crowd opening day

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – It was all about the firsts yesterday. It was Keeneland’s Spring Meet which started on a Thursday for the first time in 60 years. And it was also the first time Central Bank’s Thursday Night Live kicked off their season at Keeneland.

For Sanky Wood, it’s a chance to head out to the races with his brother, “We come here every year.”

Wood says he’s glad they started the season a day earlier this year.

“I love it. I love it. We started to come to College Day tomorrow but we figured we were too old for that,” laughed Wood.

Donna Courtney says they wanted to come Thursday because they expected a large crowd this weekend, “But it’s still a good crowd here.”

Of course, there was plenty of betting. While some got to cash in on their winnings, others came just for the fun.

“My friend and I cashed one ticket in. We lost maybe a total of $3. So, we’re doing great, better than the casinos because we go to the casinos a lot,” laughed Courtney.

Ava Stadstad says she comes for the fashion, “I love it so much. I think it’s so cute. And I think everywhere should be like this.”

But most say they came for the love of horses.

“They’re really pretty. I really like them a lot,” said Addie Nunan.

And Central Bank’s Thursday Night Live also took place at Keeneland last night for the first time, putting a wrap on opening day.

Thursday Night Live returns to its regular downtown location next Thursday through October 10.

You can view race schedules and a complete list of post drawings HERE.