How to Follow Horse Racing at Churchill Downs Racetracks

The history of American horse racing is tied intimately with the racetracks at Churchill Downs. Churchill Downs is the home of the vaunted Kentucky Derby as well as daily races that captive crowds of thousands. You need to absorb the history of Churchill Downs before you sit down to follow horse racing at these legendary racetracks.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Navigate around the events of Derby week when you plan a trip to the racetracks at Churchill Downs. The Kentucky Oaks and the legendary Kentucky Derby take place in May, with a week's worth of events involving travelers throughout the world.

2. Ascend to the third floor clubhouse to follow horse racing and dine in the Matt Winn Dining Room. This luxurious dining area requires reservations and adheres to a strict dress code to maintain the image of Churchill Downs as a horse racing institution.

3. Journey to the paddock area to watch horses get ready for upcoming races. Ask questions of trainers and stable hands early in the day to avoid getting a curt answer from focused racing professionals.

4. Learn the different categories and sections of the Churchill Downs tote board at the beginning of the day. You should know where split times are located, as well as the difference between past and present race results, to follow the sport properly.

5. Spread out your money to all of the different races run at Churchill Downs. These pristine racetracks hold stakes, claiming and other races with thoroughbreds for horse racing fans of all experience levels.

6. Note the weather conditions and the state of the track throughout the day at Churchill Downs. Factors like an increasingly muddy track, wind and sluggish racing times in past races help you follow featured competitions later in the day.

7. Gain a good vantage point on the finish line at Churchill Downs with seats in sections 116 and 117. These first level boxes extend around the first turn of the track, which give fans a unique view on horses as they start each race.

8. Breathe in fresh Kentucky air, and look down on the Churchill Downs track from the mezzanine level. The second level provides a good overview of the entire track to help you follow your horse's progress from start to finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Absorb the history and splendor of Churchill Downs at the Derby Museum. This extensive museum resides on the Churchill Downs grounds and offers visitors insight into the growth of horse racing in the United States. Arrange for a meeting with the curator prior to your visit to gain access to special collections.

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