Kentucky Downs is a thoroughbred and quarter horse racetrack located near Franklin, Kentucky. It is known for its unique track and innovative wagering system. Since its opening in 1990, Kentucky Downs has become a popular destination for horse racing fans from all over the country. The racetrack attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and is the site of some of the biggest races in the United States. But what city is Kentucky Downs racetrack in?
Location of Kentucky Downs
Kentucky Downs is located in Franklin, Kentucky, which is situated in the south-central part of the state. Franklin is a small city with a population of around 8,500 people. It is located about 40 miles north of Nashville and is just a short drive from many major cities in the region, including Louisville and Lexington. The racetrack itself is located on a sprawling tract of land that is surrounded by farms and pastures.
History of Kentucky Downs
Kentucky Downs was established in 1990, making it the first racetrack in the state to offer both thoroughbred and quarter horse racing. The track was built on the site of a former golf course, giving it an expansive, natural setting. From the beginning, Kentucky Downs has been known for its unique track and innovative wagering system. The track features an oval-shaped dirt track with a 1,000-foot home stretch, making it one of the longest tracks in the country.
Racing at Kentucky Downs
Each year Kentucky Downs hosts a variety of races, including the Kentucky Downs International, the Kentucky Downs Futurity, and the Kentucky Downs Derby. The Kentucky Downs International is a Grade III race that has been held at the track since 1991. It is run over a distance of 1¼ miles and is open to both thoroughbreds and quarter horses. The Kentucky Downs Futurity is a Grade III race that is open to two-year-old thoroughbreds. It is run over a distance of 1⅛ miles and has been held at the track since 2007. The Kentucky Downs Derby is a Grade III race that was first run in 2005. It is open to three-year-old thoroughbreds and is run over a distance of 1⅛ miles.
Notable Races at Kentucky Downs
Kentucky Downs has hosted some of the most prestigious races in the United States. In 2006, the track was the site of the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf, one of the most prestigious races in the country. The race was won by the great champion mare Ouija Board, who went on to win the Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year. In 2010, the track hosted the Breeders’ Cup Marathon, a race that was won by the champion gelding Blame.
Racing Events at Kentucky Downs
In addition to the major racing events, Kentucky Downs hosts a number of other events throughout the year. During the summer months, the track hosts a variety of special events, such as the Kentucky Downs Summer Festival, the Kentucky Downs Ladies’ Day, and the Kentucky Downs Country Fair. The track also hosts a variety of simulcast events and charitable fundraisers throughout the year.
Amenities at Kentucky Downs
Kentucky Downs offers a variety of amenities to its guests. The track features a state-of-the-art grandstand with the latest in simulcast technology. The track also offers a variety of dining options, including an upscale restaurant, snack bars, and a full-service bar. The track also offers a variety of seating options, including box seats and grandstand seating.
Betting at Kentucky Downs
One of the most popular attractions at Kentucky Downs is its innovative wagering system. The track features a unique pari-mutuel system that allows bettors to wager on a variety of different combinations. The system also allows bettors to place bets on races from other tracks. This system has become so popular that it has been adopted by other tracks around the country.
Conclusion
Kentucky Downs is one of the most popular racetracks in the United States. It is located in Franklin, Kentucky, which is situated in the south-central part of the state. The track is known for its unique track and innovative wagering system, as well as its variety of amenities and events. Whether you are a racing fan or just looking for a fun day out, Kentucky Downs is the perfect destination.