Explore Kentucky's legendary racing tracks, major events, and the world's finest thoroughbred racing traditions
Major Thoroughbred Tracks
Years of Racing Tradition (since 1875)
Racing & Events Calendar
Annual Equine Industry Impact
Kentucky stands as the undisputed epicenter of American horse racing, with a rich heritage dating back to the colonial era. From Churchill Downs' iconic Kentucky Derby to the prestigious Keeneland racecourse, the Commonwealth hosts five major thoroughbred racing facilities that collectively shape the sport's landscape.
The state's equine industry generates over $6.5 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 60,000 jobs. Kentucky breeders produce nearly 48% of all American thoroughbreds—more than any other state—and the industry contributes approximately 1% of Kentucky's total GDP, a distinction no other state can claim.
Year-round racing occurs across the state's facilities, complemented by harness racing at three standardbred tracks. Whether visiting for the legendary Kentucky Derby, the pristine Keeneland races in spring and fall, or any other racing event, Kentucky offers an unparalleled horse racing experience.
Colonial Era Origins: Horse racing emerged as America's first major sport during the colonial period, dating back to 1665. Kentucky's distinctive racing culture developed during the pioneer era (late 1700s-early 1800s), when settlers brought working horses to tame the wilderness, then naturally transitioned to racing them against one another through muddy streets in frontier communities.
19th Century Development: Churchill Downs, founded in 1875, became central to Kentucky racing history when Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. (grandson of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition) established the Kentucky Derby as the nation's premier racing event. Inspired by England's Epsom Derby and France's Grand Prix de Paris, Clark's vision created "the greatest two minutes in sports."
The Twin Spires Legacy: In 1895, the iconic Twin Spires were designed by 24-year-old draftsman Joseph Dominic Baldez and have remained the beloved symbol of Churchill Downs ever since. The 1+1/4-mile Derby distance was standardized in 1896, and the traditional garland of roses crowning the winner began that same year.
Keeneland & Modern Era: When the historic Lexington Association racetrack closed in 1933, it left a gap in Kentucky's racing landscape. Keeneland opened in October 1936 as a rarity—a non-profit racetrack managed by the Keeneland Association. The track was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, recognizing its role in growing the sport.
Regional Expansion: Ellis Park (built 1922), Turfway Park (evolved from the 1883 Latonia Race Course), and Kentucky Downs (established 1990 as Dueling Grounds) expanded Kentucky's racing infrastructure. Today, these tracks alongside The Red Mile, Oak Grove Racing, and Cumberland Run create a comprehensive racing circuit.
Location: 700 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY 40208
Type: Thoroughbred Racing
Website: churchilldowns.com
Churchill Downs is the world's most iconic horse racing venue and home to the Kentucky Derby, the longest continually running sporting event in America. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, Churchill Downs opened in 1875 and was named for the prominent Churchill family.
Key Features:
Notable Races: Kentucky Derby (1+1/4 miles), Kentucky Oaks (1+1/8 miles for fillies), The Clark Handicap, Breeders' Cup (hosted 9 times)
Location: 4201 Versailles Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40510
Type: Thoroughbred Racing
Website: keeneland.com
Keeneland is one of the most prestigious racecourses in America and the only major racetrack operating as a non-profit organization. Opened in October 1936, Keeneland is known for its pristine beauty and commitment to the sport's highest traditions.
Key Features:
Notable Races: Blue Grass Stakes (Derby prep), Ashland Stakes (fillies), Breeders' Cup races
Location: 7500 Turfway Road, Florence, KY 41042
Type: Thoroughbred Racing (Synthetic Surface)
Website: turfway.com
Turfway Park evolved from the historic Latonia Race Course (established 1883), which was a dominant force in racing through the 1920s with its Latonia Derby outshining the Kentucky Derby. After closing in 1939, the facility was purchased and renovated in 1986 and renamed Turfway Park. Churchill Downs Incorporated acquired the track in 2019 and installed a modern Tapeta synthetic surface in 2020.
Key Features:
Notable Races: Grade III races and winter prep races
Location: 3300 U.S. 41, Henderson, KY 42420
Type: Thoroughbred Racing
Website: ellisparkowensborogaming.com
Ellis Park, built in 1922, is modeled after the prestigious Saratoga Race Course in New York. Originally called Dade Park, it was renamed Ellis Park in 1954 after businessman James C. Ellis purchased the facility in 1925. Churchill Downs Incorporated acquired Ellis Park in September 2022 for $79 million.
Key Features:
Notable Features: The Pea Patch (family area), Dade Park Grill, convenient amenities
Location: 5629 Nashville Road, Franklin, Kentucky 42134
Type: Thoroughbred Racing (European-Style Turf)
Website: themintkentuckydowns.com
Kentucky Downs opened in 1990 as Dueling Grounds and was renamed in 1998. This track is unique among American racing venues—it features a European-style course with an all-turf surface instead of dirt and is not oval in shape. The turf course measures 1 mile 550 yards with three turns, and Kentucky Downs is one of only two tracks in North America to feature a right turn (the other being Santa Anita Park's downhill turf course).
Key Features:
Notable Features: 2025 purse offer of $41.7 million, competitive seven-day meet schedule
In addition to thoroughbred racing, Kentucky features three harness racing tracks for standardbred racing, offering year-round opportunities for both racing fans and enthusiasts:
Location: Lexington, Kentucky
Type: Harness Racing (Standardbred)
Website: redmilex.com
The Red Mile is the second oldest harness racing track in the world, established in 1875. Known for its distinctive red clay surface, it is one of standardbred racing's most prestigious venues. The track runs its summer meet from late July through September annually.
Location: Oak Grove, Kentucky (near Hopkinsville)
Type: Harness Racing (Standardbred)
Website: oakgrovegaming.com
Oak Grove Racing & Gaming features a five-eighths mile limestone track in southwestern Kentucky. The facility operates approximately 34 racing programs annually, primarily on Mondays and Tuesdays, offering opportunities for harness racing fans.
Location: Corbin, Kentucky
Type: Harness Racing (Standardbred)
Website: themintcumberlandrun.com
Cumberland Run is Kentucky's newest harness racing facility, opening in October 2023. This state-of-the-art facility features a 5/8-mile standardbred racetrack and brought live horse racing to southeastern Kentucky for the first time. Racing typically occurs in October and November annually.
Kentucky's racing calendar is remarkably full, with activities throughout the year across the state's major venues:
| Season | Track | Schedule | Key Races |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (April-May) | Keeneland Churchill Downs | April 15 days Late April-early May | Blue Grass Stakes (Derby prep) Kentucky Derby & Oaks |
| Summer (June-July) | Churchill Downs Ellis Park | June-July racing Summer season | Summer stakes races Regular cards |
| Fall (August-October) | Kentucky Downs Keeneland The Red Mile (harness) | Aug 28-Sept 10 October 17 days July-September | 18 stakes races Breeders' Cup preps Harness racing |
| Winter (Nov-March) | Turfway Park | Nov-April 67 racing dates | Winter/spring prep races |
Thoroughbred racing dominates Kentucky's racing calendar and culture. These are the fastest horses, bred specifically for racing, and they compete in races ranging from 5 furlongs to 2+ miles. All major tracks feature thoroughbred racing with age restrictions (typically 3-year-olds and up).
Harness racing features standardbred horses pulling a lightweight cart with a driver, not a jockey mounted on the horse. Races occur at consistent paces with specific gaits (trotting or pacing). Kentucky's three harness tracks offer year-round standardbred racing with lower admission costs than thoroughbred racing.
Kentucky does not currently have stand-alone Off-Track Betting (OTB) locations, but advance-deposit wagering (online horse racing betting) is legal and regulated.
Kentucky Horse Racing & Gaming Corporation (KHRG), an independent municipal corporation and political subdivision of the Commonwealth, regulates all aspects of horse racing, pari-mutuel wagering, and breed integrity in Kentucky. All advance-deposit wagering operators must undergo background investigations and comply with strict consumer protection regulations.
Many Kentucky racetracks feature historical horse racing machines—gaming devices that allow wagering on past horse races. These are available at Ellis Park, Kentucky Downs, and other facilities, offering entertainment and additional wagering opportunities beyond live racing.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or experienced racing enthusiast, Kentucky's tracks offer welcoming environments and excellent facilities. Most venues provide family-friendly experiences with free or low-cost admission options.
Foaled: March 29, 1917 at Nursery Stud near Lexington, Kentucky
Man o' War is widely regarded as the greatest racehorse of the 20th century. In a brief career spanning only two seasons (1919-1920), he won 20 of 21 races and established seven track records. Ranked #1 by both The Blood-Horse magazine and Associated Press as the greatest horse of the 20th century. His grave, marked with a statue by American sculptor Herbert Haseltine, is located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Achievement: First horse in 25 years to win the Triple Crown (1973)
Secretariat is the only horse to win the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes in a single year since 1948. His Kentucky Derby time still stands as the Churchill Downs track record for 1+1/4 miles, and his Belmont Stakes time stands as the American record. Ranked #2 in The Blood-Horse magazine's Top 100 U.S. Racehorses of the 20th Century. Retired to stud in Paris, Kentucky.
Winner of the first Kentucky Derby ever held (May 17, 1875), ridden by African American jockey Oliver Lewis. This historic victory launched the Derby's 150-year tradition.
First filly to win the Kentucky Derby, breaking the gender barrier in racing's most prestigious event.
Most recent Triple Crown winner, capturing the hearts of racing fans nationwide. Won the 2015 Breeders' Cup Classic at Keeneland by six and a half lengths.
Kentucky produces nearly 48% of all American thoroughbreds—approximately 7,803 of the estimated 17,200 foals bred in the United States in 2023 alone. The state's farms and breeding operations generate enormous economic impact and continue the legacy of thoroughbred development. The Jockey Club, the registry for all Thoroughbred horses in North America, maintains offices in New York and Lexington, Kentucky, ensuring breed integrity and development.
The Kentucky Derby is the longest continually running sporting event in America (first held May 17, 1875) and is known as "the greatest two minutes in sports." It is the first jewel of the Triple Crown—a series of three prestigious races for 3-year-old thoroughbreds. The winning horse is crowned with a garland of 400+ red roses in the tradition dating to 1896. The Derby holds enormous cultural significance in American sports and attracts international attention. With capacity for approximately 170,000 spectators, it is one of the most attended sporting events globally.
The Triple Crown consists of three prestigious races for 3-year-old thoroughbreds: (1) Kentucky Derby (1+1/4 miles at Churchill Downs, first Saturday in May), (2) Preakness Stakes (1+3/16 miles at Pimlico in Baltimore, third Saturday in May), and (3) Belmont Stakes (1+1/2 miles at Belmont Park in New York, typically in early June). Only 13 horses have won all three races since Sir Barton achieved the feat in 1919. Winning the Triple Crown is considered one of the most difficult accomplishments in all of sports.
Most races at Kentucky tracks require horses to be at least three years old, with the notable exceptions of races specifically for 2-year-olds (like the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes) which determine early qualifying points for future Derby entries. The Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown races are exclusively for 3-year-old thoroughbreds. The Preakness and Belmont follow the same age restriction. Harness racing may have different age divisions depending on the specific race and sanctioning body.
Yes, online horse racing betting (advance-deposit wagering) is legal in Kentucky as of 2011. Licensed operators include TwinSpires (owned by Churchill Downs) and AmWager. To place bets online, you must be 18 or older, create an account with a licensed Kentucky operator, verify your identity, and deposit funds. All licensed operators are regulated by the Kentucky Horse Racing & Gaming Corporation and maintain bonds covering all customer funds for consumer protection.
Kentucky's equine industry generates over $6.5 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 60,000 jobs. The racing sector alone contributes approximately $517 million in direct economic impact with $1.28 billion in total output impact. For every $100 generated by horse racing, approximately $47 dollars is supported in the broader Kentucky economy. The industry generates approximately $115 million in annual tax revenue for the state. Most significantly, Kentucky contributes nearly 48% of all American thoroughbred foals—more than any other state—and the industry represents 1% of Kentucky's total GDP, a distinction no other state achieves.
Thoroughbred Racing: A jockey rides mounted on the horse's back. Races occur on dirt, turf, or synthetic surfaces. Horses gallop at full speed over various distances (5 furlongs to 2+ miles). Featured at Churchill Downs, Keeneland, Turfway Park, Ellis Park, and Kentucky Downs.
Harness Racing: A driver guides a horse pulling a lightweight cart (sulky), not riding mounted. Horses maintain specific gaits (trotting or pacing) and race on a track at consistent rhythm. Races typically 1 mile or 5/8 mile. Featured at The Red Mile, Oak Grove Racing, and Cumberland Run. Harness racing typically has lower admission costs and a more intimate racing experience.
The Mint Julep has been the traditional cocktail of the Kentucky Derby for over 100 years, making it an iconic symbol of the event alongside the roses. The drink—made with bourbon, mint, sugar, and water, served over ice in a silver cup—epitomizes Southern hospitality and the classic racing experience. The Mint Julep is available throughout Churchill Downs on Derby day and has become synonymous with the event's traditions and prestige.
Spring (April-May) is peak season with Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, and Keeneland spring meet—the weather is beautiful and racing is at its most prestigious. Fall (October) offers Keeneland's elegant fall meet with lovely autumn weather. Summer (June-July) features Ellis Park racing with fewer crowds than spring. Winter (November-April) features Turfway Park's synthetic surface racing—good for winter visitors seeking racing without spring crowds. Each season offers unique advantages depending on your preferences and schedule.
Yes, Kentucky racetracks are generally family-friendly venues. Children of all ages can attend most racing events, with many tracks offering family-focused areas (Ellis Park features "The Pea Patch" family section) and affordable admission. Keeneland's general admission is as low as $7 on weekdays. Children can stand at the rail to watch races up close. Tours of racing facilities (Morning Works, Backstretch tours at Churchill Downs) are educational and exciting for young racing fans. Check individual track websites for specific age policies and family-friendly events.
Kentucky's horse racing heritage is foundational to American sports culture. Churchill Downs' Kentucky Derby (first held 1875) is America's longest continuously running sporting event and the only U.S. sports tradition that predates by decades the World Series or NFL. The Derby transcends racing, attracting celebrities, politicians, and international attention equivalent to Wimbledon or the Masters. Kentucky's dominance in thoroughbred breeding (48% of U.S. foals) and the legendary racehorses foaled there (Man o' War, Secretariat, American Pharoah) define racing excellence globally. The sport generates $6.5 billion in state economic impact and the Bluegrass region's horses represent a uniquely American cultural heritage distinct to Kentucky.
Last updated on November 27, 2025