Tagged: Churchill Downs

Friday is the day for the fillies at Churchill Downs.

More than 100,000 fans are expected at the track for the 139th running of the Kentucky Oaks, the biggest race of the year for three year old fillies.

Like at Saturday's Kentucky Derby, there will be plenty of security in place. Police have increased their presence at the gates with more electronic wand searches. Purses larger than 12 inches are prohibited as are coolers and camera with detachable lenses.

The traffic plan around Churchill Downs remains the same as in previous years. Central Avenue is closed and the taxi lot has been moved from Gate 17 to the area between 3rd and 4th Streets on Central.

It's called the "Road to the Kentucky Derby", and starting next year it will be used to determine the field for the world's most famous horse race.

The Courier-Journal reports Churchill Downs will determine the 20-horse field for the Derby through a points system. Beginning this fall, two-year-old horses will earn points based on their placement in designated races.

The points system will essentially organize the horse racing season into a regular season and playoffs, which racing officials hope will build fan interest along the way.