Churchill Downs: Experience the Thrill of the Kentucky Derby
No trip to Kentucky is complete without a visit to Churchill Downs, the legendary home of the Kentucky Derby. Known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the Derby is a spectacle of world-class horse racing, fashion, and tradition. Every year, the first Saturday of May brings together the finest thoroughbreds, top jockeys, and a crowd dressed in elegant attire, making it an unmissable event.
Beyond the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is a year-round racing venue with a rich history, stunning architecture, and deep connections to the sport of horse racing.
The History of Churchill Downs
Churchill Downs was founded in 1875 by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of famed explorer William Clark. Inspired by horse racing in England and France, Clark Jr. sought to bring an elite racing experience to the United States. The track’s name came from the Churchill family, who provided the land for the venue.
The inaugural Kentucky Derby took place on May 17, 1875, with 15 horses competing. Aristides, ridden by Oliver Lewis, emerged victorious in front of a crowd of 10,000 spectators. The purse for the race was $2,850, a stark contrast to the multi-million-dollar prizes of today.
The Kentucky Derby: The Crown Jewel of Horse Racing
The Kentucky Derby is the longest-running sporting event in United States history, taking place annually since 1875. It marks the first leg of the Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.
The 2023 Kentucky Derby offered a record-breaking $3 million purse, with the winner, Mage, taking home $1.86 million. Betting on the Derby reached an all-time high in 2023, with $188.7 million wagered on the race alone.
Churchill Downs isn’t just a racetrack—it’s a symbol of Kentucky’s deep-rooted connection to horse racing. From the perfectly groomed turf to the iconic twin spires, every inch of this historic venue tells a story of past champions and unforgettable finishes. If you’re planning to experience this world-famous track in all its glory, make sure to check out the latest betting promos in Kentucky to make the most of Derby season.
The Iconic Twin Spires of Churchill Downs
Designed by Joseph Dominic Baldez, the Twin Spires were completed in 1895 and have since become the most recognizable feature of Churchill Downs. They sit above the grandstand, offering a stunning view of the racecourse.
The Twin Spires symbolize the heritage and grandeur of horse racing. Their presence in every Kentucky Derby winner’s circle photo solidifies their importance to the sport.
The Kentucky Derby Museum
Located next to Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby Museum offers an immersive experience into the history of the Kentucky Derby and thoroughbred racing. Visitors can see the Hall of Champions, featuring past Derby winners, and even try on jockey silks.
The museum features interactive exhibits, including virtual horse races, allowing guests to experience the thrill of a race firsthand. The Barn and Backside Tour provides behind-the-scenes access to the horses, trainers, and stables.
Notable Kentucky Derby Winners
In 1973, Secretariat won the Kentucky Derby in a record 1:59.40, a time that has yet to be beaten. He went on to become the first Triple Crown winner in 25 years, solidifying his place as one of the greatest racehorses in history.
American Pharoah (2015) – Ended a 37-year Triple Crown drought.
Justify (2018) – Won the Derby without racing as a two-year-old, a feat not achieved since 1882.
The Fashion and Traditions of the Kentucky Derby
The Mint Julep, made with bourbon, sugar, mint, and crushed ice, has been the official drink of the Derby since 1938. More than 120,000 Mint Juleps are served at Churchill Downs every Derby weekend.
Fashion is a major part of the Derby experience. Women wear elaborate hats, while men don pastel suits and bow ties. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century, inspired by British horse racing fashion.
Betting and Wagering at Churchill Downs
The 2023 Kentucky Derby saw $288.7 million wagered across all races on Derby Day, breaking the previous record of $273.8 million in 2022.
Churchill Downs offers various betting options, including:
- Win, Place, Show – Betting on a horse to finish 1st, 2nd, or 3rd.
- Exacta and Trifecta – Predicting the exact order of the top two or three finishers.
Other Major Races at Churchill Downs
Held the Friday before the Kentucky Derby, the Kentucky Oaks is a premier race for three-year-old fillies, featuring a purse of $1.25 million. The 2023 winner, Pretty Mischievous, took home $750,000.
Churchill Downs has hosted the Breeders’ Cup nine times, most recently in 2018, when Accelerate won the Classic and took home $3.6 million.
Year-Round Racing at Churchill Downs
Churchill Downs hosts multiple race meets throughout the year, attracting top jockeys and trainers. The Spring Meet runs from April to June, followed by the September and Fall Meets.
Major stakes races at Churchill Downs include:
- Clark Stakes – A Grade 1 race with a $750,000 purse.
- Stephen Foster Stakes – A Grade 1 event with $1 million in prize money.
The Impact of Churchill Downs on Horse Racing
Churchill Downs generates millions in revenue and provides thousands of jobs in Louisville. The Kentucky Derby alone contributes over $400 million annually to the local economy.
Churchill Downs is continually upgrading its facilities, with $200 million in recent renovations, including a new paddock area and premium seating options.
Churchill Downs is more than a racetrack—it’s a monument to horse racing history, a premier sporting venue, and a hub of economic and cultural significance in Kentucky. Whether attending the Kentucky Derby, visiting the museum, or betting on live races, Churchill Downs offers an unforgettable experience steeped in tradition, excitement, and legendary moments.
