Churchill Downs Horse Racing

Churchill Downs Racing

Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY, 40208, United States

Churchill Downs is a racetrack for thoroughbred racing and is known for hosting the most famous race in the world, the Kentucky Derby. It opened back in 1875 and hosted the first Kentucky Derby and first Kentucky Oaks in 1875. These events were created and inspired by England’s Epsom Derby, Epsom Oaks and St. Leger Stakes. The events have been held continuously at Churchill Downs. It has also host the Breeders’ Cup on multiple occasions including in 2018.

Churchill Downs was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. On June 19, 2009, Churchill Downs hosted its first-ever night race. That same year, Churchill Downs was ranked number 5 out of 65 thoroughbred tracks by the Horseplayers Association of North America. The famous twin spires on top of the grandstands are the most recognizable architectural feature at Churchill Downs and are used as a symbol of the track and the Kentucky Derby alike.

Racing at Churchill Downs occurs in two meets. The spring meet starts in late April, one week before the Kentucky Derby, and continues until early July. A fall meet starts in late October and closes Thanksgiving weekend in late November each year.

Churchill Downs Course Information:

Live Racing Calendar: Wednesday through Sunday & live racing every weekend in June.

Course type: Flat

Notable Races:  Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, Woodford Reserve Turf Classic, Stephen Foster Handicap, Clark Handicap

Main track (Sand & Clay): 1 mile oval

Distance from last turn to finish line: 1,234 1/2  feet

Turf course: 7/8th mile oval

Graded stakes at Churchill Downs Racing