What is Churchill Downs? Everything you need to know
The Churchill Downs is a Thoroughbred horse racing track famously known for being the host of the Kentucky Derby on Central Avenue in south Louisville, Kentucky. The first Derby at Churchill was in 1875. From this time on the track has also been the host of the Breeders’ Cup on nine different occasions. This racetrack is able to hold up to 170,000 racing fans.
This racetrack is highly respected and honored in the sport of horse racing. In 2009, Churchill Downs was ranked the number 5 Thoroughbred racetrack in all of North America by the Horseplayers Association of North America.
You need to know more about the most favorite traditional horse racing on the planet known as Kentucky Derby Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs racetrack in south Louisville, Kentucky, United States. The Kentucky Derby day always started on the first Saturday of May detailed below.
Location: Central Avenue in south Louisville, Kentucky, United States.
Post time: 6:57 p.m. Eastern
TV: NBC Sports Live, 2:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Why is it called Churchill Downs?
The track is named after the founders, John, and Henry Churchill. They leased 80 acres of land to their nephew who was a member of the Louisville Jockey Club and Driving Park Association. The father-in-law was Richard Ten Broeck who was a horse breed as well as a trainer. He introduced the family to horse racing and the Downs allowed Louisville to join in this sport.
In 1902, the day-to-day operations of the track were under the management of Charles F Grainger, who was the mayor of Louisville. He brought on new members to help him run and operate this track. The track did very well and was asked to be the home of the Kentucky Derby. Once this race came to the Downs, new facilities were built in order to attract fans. The State Fair was also held on these grounds. Horseracing continued at this track for many years.
In 1986, the Downs was made a National Historic Landmark. In 2009, the Downs hosted a race night and over 27,000 people showed up for this event.
How much does it cost to go to Churchill Downs?
Churchill Downs tickets start at $5.00 per adult for General admissions only for Spring, September, and Fall Meets.
What town is Churchill Downs in?
On Central Avenue in south Louisville, Kentucky, United States
How old is Churchill Downs?
From 1875 to 2023 – 149th years old according to the Kentucky Derby history
Facilities at the Track
The grandstands are one of the most well-known features of the Downs besides the race track. The stand was designed back in 1895 by Joseph Dominic Baldez. The Churchill Downs still has a one-mile dirt track for the racing and the track is 80 feet in circumference. The starting gate is 120 feet wide. There is also a turf track that is located within the main track for other runs.
In 2001 a $121 million renovation began at the Churchill Downs. A modern clubhouse constructed and there are 79 luxury suites in the new clubhouse. The twin spires were also refurbished. There is now a mural that was designed by Pierre Bellocq in the clubhouse. This mural shows 96 jockeys that won the Kentucky Derby race from 1975 to 2004. There was a new mural added to include more recent winners of the race.
The Churchill Downs is an American landmark. This famous horse racing track is loved by those in the racing world and is one of the most famous and prestigious tracks in the entire world.