Churchill Downs, Horse racing venue in Louisville, United States
Churchill Downs is a horse racing venue in Louisville, Kentucky, with two tracks: a 1-mile dirt course and a 7/8-mile turf course. The facility can accommodate up to 170,000 spectators during race days.
Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. founded the facility in 1875 on land leased from his uncles. The first race took place on May 17 of that same year before about 10,000 spectators.
The name honors brothers John and Henry Churchill who originally provided the land. On race days many visitors wear elegant clothing and elaborate hats, especially during the traditional spring race.
Guided tours of the facility are available and offer behind-the-scenes insights. Multiple restaurants and wagering options are offered during the racing season.
Jockey James Lee won all six races in a single day in 1907. This extraordinary achievement remains nearly unmatched in the track's history.
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