Name of Track:
Churchill Downs

Location:
700 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY, United States

Date Opened:
1875

Course Type:
Flat/Thoroughbred

Main Track:
1 mile, oval

Distance
Last Turn to Finish Line:
1,234 ½ feet

Turf course:
7/8th mile oval

Horse Racing at Churchill Downs

Horse racing is a long tradition in Kentucky where it dates back to 1789, when the first race course officially opened its doors in Lexington. Churchill Downs began its story as home of the renowned Kentucky Derby.

Churchill Down's inaugural race featured three major stakes races: the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Clark Handicap. The three events were created and inspired England's Epsom Derby, Epsom Oaks and St. Leger Stakes. The three events have been held continuously at the track. In addition to the annual Kentucky Derby race, the track has also served as home of the Breeders' Cup on eight occasions, most recently in 2011.

Churchill Downs Racing Information:

Live Racing:  Wednesday, Thursday,  Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Live Racing Calendar: Wednesday - Sunday, plus every weekend in June

Notable Races at Churchill Downs:

GI Events:
Kentucky Derby
Kentucky Oaks
Woodford Reserve Turf Classic
Stephen Foster Handicap
Clark Handicap