Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Churchill Downs is one of the most exciting racing venues in the United States. Home to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, horse racing fans flock to Churchill Downs to enjoy the thrilling events that take place throughout the year. Racegoers watch in anticipation as Thoroughbreds race towards the finish in the hope they have wagered on the winning horse. When you pick up your Churchill Downs Racing tickets at StubHub, you can expect to witness some of the most enthralling events in the American racing calendar.
The History of Churchill Downs Racing
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Although horse racing in Kentucky began in 1789, Churchill Downs wasn’t founded until 1872 and the first race took place here on 17 May 1875. The inspiration for this racetrack came from Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark who had enjoyed the Epsom Derby in England and wanted to recreate his experiences in Louisville.
Clark used 80 acres of his Uncle John’s land to construct the racetrack and raised funds from subscriptions to build six stables, a grandstand, a clubhouse and Porter’s Lodge. These structures remain, although the racetrack has grown and modernised over the years. The most striking feature of the racetrack is the Twin Spires situated on the grandstand and these have become an internationally recognised symbol of the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs.
Thrilling Experiences
The first Kentucky Derby is still one of the most important events in the history of American racing and it is recognised amongst the most exciting races in the world. Aristrides won the first race in front of 10,000 spectators. Crowds at this event now exceed 170,000, a record breaking figure.
Churchill Downs hosts many races throughout the year. Since 2009, some of these have taken place at night thanks to the installation of permanent lights. Racegoers have experienced the thrill of seeing several records broken at this venue, including track, national and international records.
Even when live races are not taking place, visitors can enjoy Simulcast racing and tours of the Kentucky Derby Museum. To add an element of luxury to a day at the races, it is possible to hire one of the 79 luxury private suites available at Churchill Downs. You and your party can enjoy the racing schedule in your own private area overlooking the racecourse.
Whichever race you attend, you are sure to enjoy excitement and thrills. There are no certainties in these races and many of the events have produced surprising results. From watching the plucky jockeys to admiring the graceful beauty of the Thoroughbreds, it is a day you will never forget once you have bought your Churchill Downs Racing tickets.
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