NORTH RANDALL, Ohio — The 148th running of the Kentucky Derby kicks off Saturday evening at Churchill Downs in Louisville, but an event in Northeast Ohio is expected to draw large crowds of its own.
The day in which the Kentucky Derby takes place is one of the busiest days at JACK Thistledown Racino in North Randall. The Racino will have live races starting around noon Saturday that lead up to the 6:57 p.m. ET Kentucky Derby. Along with the live horse races, there will be contests where people can win prizes.
"You can't have a Kentucky Derby without a hat contest," assistant general manager of JACK Thistledown Racino Scott Shaffer said.
Shaffer told 3News that the top three winners will go home with up to $500 in prizes.
The Kentucky Derby, which takes approximately two minutes, is one of the most thrilling and viewed sporting events every year. Gambling is also a major part of the Kentucky Derby, and those at the Racino will be able to bet on the horses running in Louisville.
"We bring out a whole team of people so they're able to help those newer bettors that maybe don't have the experience betting on their favorite horse," Shaffer said.
3News' Nick Camino spoke with Kentucky Derby announcer Larry Collums, who says the pay is going to be okay if you bet on the horse that's the favorite.
You must be 18 years old or older to bet at JACK Thistledown Racino, and remember to wager responsibly.
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