News and Press Releases

With the pleasure of hospitality comes the stress of triple checking to make sure you have all the ingredients for your dishes and the kitchen prep and presentation are always ready for prime time. Can you imagine the intensity of hosting a dinner for 400,000 of your closest friends? These are the number of zeros for which the head of chefs at Churchill Downs must prepare every Derby season. Producing sumptuous dishes and Kentucky favorites throughout Derby Week is a year-round planning process that includes detailed planning, near-military precision in preparation and thousands of hands to help make it happen.

Being the only child of a Thoroughbred racehorse trainer had its perks. Growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana, Gary Palmisano was born into the world of horse racing and loved every minute of it. He chose to spend his days at Fair Grounds Race Course, immersing himself in an environment that ultimately shaped his career.

Vance Hanson, a longtime contributor to TwinSpires and Brisnet, has been unanimously elected to the Board of Directors for the National Turf Writers and Broadcasters (NTWAB).

Churchill Downs Incorporated announced that over $122,000 was donated to 50 nonprofits participating in "Winsday," the Company's first nonprofit-focused Derby weekday in history.

Churchill Downs Incorporated (Nasdaq: CHDN) (the "Company", "CDI", "we") announced today that Sovereignty claimed the Garland of Roses at the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve under light rain and the watchful eyes of over 147,000 eager racing fans.

Churchill Downs Incorporated announced Good Cheer captured the Lilies in the 151st running of the Longines Kentucky Oaks in a field of 13 and sloppy track conditions.

Churchill Downs Racetrack (“Churchill Downs”) announced today an exciting slate of partners and on-site brand experiences for the 151st Kentucky Derby® presented by Woodford Reserve, taking place on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Blending timeless and contemporary traditions, this year’s Derby celebrates modern hospitality and entertainment reflecting the race’s evolution from a two-minute race into a cultural moment that transcends sport.

Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI” or “the Company”) (Nasdaq: CHDN) announced today renovations of the existing Finish Line Suites and The Mansion at Churchill Downs Racetrack with expected completion in April 2026. After careful consideration, CDI has decided to pause the multi-year projects to develop The Skye, Conservatory and Infield areas. The decision to delay these construction projects is due to the increasing uncertainty surrounding construction costs related to tariff and trade disputes as well as current macro-economic conditions. In the coming months, CDI will assess the evolving economic landscape and evaluate any changes to the timing and sequencing of these multi-year projects.

Churchill Downs has announced everything guests need to know about each Kentucky Derby Week event. This year, Derby Week consists of seven exciting events: Dawn at the Downs; Opening Night powered by LG&E and KU; 502’sDay, Winsday presented by Resolute Racing; Thurby presented by Old Forester; and, of course, Oaks and Derby.