Horse racing in Kentucky is rich in history, dating back to 1789 when the first race course was laid out in Lexington. However, it was almost 100 years later, in 1875, that Churchill Downs officially opened and began its tradition as "Home of the Kentucky Derby." Since that time, on the first Saturday in May, Churchill Downs has been host to the “Run for the Roses” where the best three year-olds in the country descend on Louisville. Triple Crown winning greats like War Admiral, Citation, Secretariat, Seattle Slew and Affirmed all began their triumphs under the Twin Spires. Recent winners like Funny Cide and Smarty Jones have helped increase the popularity of “sport of kings.”

Churchill Downs is more than just the home of the Kentucky Derby as it has hosted five Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships during its Fall meet. Additionally, Churchill Downs hosts five other Grade 1 races including the Kentucky Oaks for three year-old fillies the day before the Derby, the Stephen Foster in the Spring and the Clark Handicap in the Fall, both traditionally attracting some of the best older horses in the country.

From 2001 to 2005, Churchill Downs underwent a three-and-a-half year, $121 million renovation. The clubhouse was replaced, 79 luxury suites were added, and the historic twin spires were refurbished. In addition to the track, clubhouse and stables, Churchill Downs also contains the Kentucky Derby Museum which focuses on the history of the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs.