Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs is a racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky, that is home to the Kentucky Derby.

After announcing his plans to build a thoroughbred horse track, Col. M. Lewis Clark raised $32,000 and purchased 80 acres of land from John and Henry Churchill, his uncles, for which the track is named. Originally consisting of six stables, a clubhouse, lounge and grandstands, the first three races, the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Clark Handicap, were held on May 17, 1875.Official Site: History of Churchill Downs

In the years since, the track has undergone numerous renovations and improvements and changed ownership several times. The most recent renovation came in 2002 and 2003, with a $121 million addition of luxury suites, an expanded Turf Club, new box seats, new dining, entertainment and media centers and a new grand entrance at gate 17.Official Site: History of Churchill Downs

The Kentucky Derby is the longest running American sport tradition. It was first run way back in 1875! The first winner of the race was a chestnut colt by the name of Aristides in 2:37 3/4 seconds. This race was significant not only because it was the first Derby won, but also because his rider was an African American named Oliver Lewis. Because the race is always about 2 minutes long - the record time being 1:59.40 by Secretariat (the only one run under 2 minutes) - the race is touted as "The Fastest 2 Minutes in Sports". The race has a long tradition of showcasing only the best 3yo colts (and sometimes fillies!). The Derby is the first jewel to the Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico, and the Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park. However, the last horse to win the Triple Crown was Affirmed in 1978.

Colts are not the only ones to run in the Derby, and not the only ones to win it! The last filly to run in it was Eight Belles (2008), who met with a tragic end only a few furlongs after the finish line. The last filly to win was Winning Colors in 1988. Three fillies have won all together; Winning Colors, Genuine Risk (1980), and Regret (1915).

The Run for the Roses (so named because of the ring of roses draped over the back of the winner) is full of traditions. It runs every first Saturday in May. Mint juleps are always served. A favored tradition with the ladies is the Parade of Hats, which is a tradition shared by infielders and box seat fans alike. There is a yearly competition for who has the best looking hat, or even the most outlandish hat. It is certainly a sight to see!

http://horseracing.about.com/od/history/l/blderbywin.htm http://www.derbymuseum.org/derby_history.html http://www.kentuckyderby.info/kentuckyderby-trivia.php