Churchill Downs plans concert series

Churchill Downs announced Tuesday that the track will host postrace concerts following twilight Friday cards at the spring meet for five straight weeks following the May 7 Kentucky Derby before getting into its nighttime programs.

First post for the twilight Fridays will be 2:45 p.m., with the last race going at about 8 and the concerts following shortly thereafter. Those dates are May 13, 20, and 27 and June 3-10.

Churchill officials revealed several months ago that the meet opener on April 30 will be a nighttime card with a 6 p.m. post, with the Derby Trial being run under the lights for the first time. The later night programs are set for June 17, June 24, and July 1. Churchill installed a permanent lights system last year.