Through wars and world turmoil, Kentucky Derby runs on

(AP) – The Great Depression and World War I and World War II didn’t stop the Kentucky Derby. It’s a race that’s been run without interruption since 1875. But for the first time in 75 years, it will miss the month of May. Churchill Downs postponed the Derby from May 2 to Sept. 5 due to concern over the coronavirus pandemic. In January 1945, the federal government banned horse racing nationwide, believing money was being wasted on gambling and resources like gas and tire rubber that could help the effort in World War II. Germany surrendered in early May and the 71st Derby was run on June 9.