History of Churchill Downs in Timeline
Churchill Downs, a famed horse racing complex in Louisville, Kentucky, is best known as the home of the Kentucky Derby. Opened in 1875 and named after Samuel Churchill, it hosted the inaugural Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks in its first year. Besides the Derby, part of horse racing's Triple Crown, Churchill Downs has also hosted the prestigious Breeders' Cup nine times, including as recently as 2018.
1902: Charles F. Grainger Takes Over Churchill Downs Operations
In early 1902, William Applegate, the owner of Churchill Downs, handed over the daily operations of the track to Charles F. Grainger, the then-mayor of Louisville. Applegate aimed to shift the track's reputation away from being primarily associated with gambling.
June 5, 1907: James Lee Sets Unbroken Record at Churchill Downs
On June 5th, 1907, African American jockey James Lee achieved a historic feat by winning all six races at Churchill Downs, a record that remains unbroken.
1908: Parimutuel Betting Returns to Churchill Downs
In 1908, parimutuel betting machines were reintroduced at Churchill Downs as gambling became more accepted, leading to increased profitability for the track.
1986: Churchill Downs Named a National Historic Landmark
In 1986, Churchill Downs was officially recognized for its historical significance and designated as a National Historic Landmark.
2001: Churchill Downs Embarks on Major Renovation
In 2001, Churchill Downs initiated a multi-year, $121 million renovation project.
2004: Pierre Bellocq Creates Jockey Mural at Churchill Downs
In 2004, artist Pierre Bellocq completed a 36-foot mural at Churchill Downs, honoring all 96 jockeys who won the Kentucky Derby from 1875 to 2004.
2005: Churchill Downs Completes Extensive Renovation
By 2005, Churchill Downs completed its major renovation project which included a new clubhouse, luxury suites, and refurbished twin spires.
2008: Bellocq Updates Mural and Adds Trainer Mural
In the summer of 2008, Pierre Bellocq updated his jockey mural and created a new mural featuring winning trainers at Churchill Downs.
June 19, 2009: Churchill Downs Hosts First Night Race
On June 19th, 2009, Churchill Downs held its first-ever night race, attracting a crowd of over 27,000 attendees.
2009: Churchill Downs Establishes Night Races
In 2009, Churchill Downs introduced night races to its schedule, adding a new dimension to the racing experience.
2009: Churchill Downs Receives High Ranking from Horseplayers Association
In 2009, the Horseplayers Association of North America ranked Churchill Downs as the number 5 Thoroughbred racetrack in North America, based on their newly introduced rating system.
2010: HullabaLOU Music Festival Launches and Ends
In 2010, Churchill Downs ventured into the music industry with the launch of the HullabaLOU Music Festival. However, due to financial losses and lower-than-expected attendance, the event was discontinued after its first year.
June 22, 2011: Tornado Strikes Churchill Downs
On June 22nd, 2011, an EF2 tornado hit the Louisville area, causing significant damage to the stables and chapel at Churchill Downs. Over 200 horses had to be relocated due to the damage.
October 2013: Churchill Downs Begins "Big Board" Installation
In October 2013, Churchill Downs commenced the installation of a massive, state-of-the-art video board known as "The Big Board."
2013: Churchill Downs Adds September Meet
In 2013, Churchill Downs expanded its racing calendar by adding a third meet in September, increasing the opportunities for racing fans.
2014: Churchill Downs Increases Parimutuel Takeout Rates, Receives Lower Ranking
In 2014, Churchill Downs increased its parimutuel takeout rates. This decision resulted in a drop in their ranking by the Horseplayers Association of North America, placing them at number 22 that year.
2014: "The Big Board" Debuts at Churchill Downs
In 2014, Churchill Downs unveiled "The Big Board" to the public, a groundbreaking ultra-high-definition video board that enhanced the viewing experience for racegoers.
2014: Churchill Downs Recognizes "Thurby"
The term "Thurby," a blend of Thursday and Derby, gained official recognition from Churchill Downs in 2014, referring to the Thursday racing during Derby week.
2018: Breeders' Cup Hosted at Churchill Downs
In 2018, Churchill Downs hosted the Breeders' Cup on November 2nd and 3rd. This marked one of nine times the renowned event was held at the racetrack.
2019: Churchill Downs Leadership Through the Years
By 2019, Churchill Downs had seen 12 different individuals serve as CEO throughout its history.
April 27, 2023: Horse Fatalities Spark Investigations at Churchill Downs
Beginning on April 27th, 2023, Churchill Downs faced scrutiny and investigations following a series of horse fatalities.
June 2023: Churchill Downs Transfers Spring-Summer Meet Due to Safety Concerns
In June 2023, in response to multiple horse fatalities and ongoing investigations, Churchill Downs made the decision to relocate its spring-summer racing meet to Ellis Park Race Course to address safety concerns.
2023: Graded Events at Churchill Downs in 2023
Churchill Downs continued to host Graded events in 2023.
2024: Graded Events at Churchill Downs in 2024
Churchill Downs continued to host Graded events in 2024.