LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Despite damp grounds, the Kentucky Derby party started early on the infield at Churchill Downs. Bourbon and bets were flowing by 10 a.m., and at least one bachelorette party wound into form.
Tressa Ballard of New Albany, Ind., has lived near Louisville her entire life, but didn’t make it to the Kentucky Derby until a friend from Kansas wanted to go in the last couple of years.
As her friend, Melissa Marr, placed bets, Ballard watched the crowd swirl around putting up tents, buying drinks and settling in for a long day in the muggy heat that marked the morning.
Ballard said she had a reason for wanting to attend the Kentucky Derby: “It’s the only time of year I’m allowed to drink bourbon for breakfast.”
