Gallop for Good Raises More Than $300,000 to Support Thoroughbred Aftercare Organizations Nationwide

Louisville, Ky. (June 30, 2026) – Churchill Downs Incorporated (Nasdaq: CHDN) (“CDI”) announced today that the inaugural Gallop for Good: From Race to Retirement (“Gallop for Good”) campaign raised more than $303,000 to benefit 75 Thoroughbred aftercare nonprofit organizations across the United States, helping retired racehorses transition to second careers, rehabilitation, adoption, sanctuary and lifelong care.  

The one-day online giving campaign, held on June 27, generated more than 575 donations from more than 450 donors, including $150,000 in contributions, matching and incentive support from CDI. It brought together nonprofits, donors and industry partners in a shared commitment to the future well-being of Thoroughbreds. 

“Participating in Gallop for Good has been a game-changer for Second Stride,” said Kim Smith, Second Stride Founder and Executive Director. “We raised over $40,000 through the campaign, which gives us a huge boost for the rest of the year. We’re grateful to Churchill Downs for shining a light on aftercare and providing the platform and tools that helped us raise the funds needed to serve even more horses.”

Gallop for Good provided a centralized online giving platform that connected aftercare organizations across the country, helping them expand their reach, engage new donors and raise critical funds. The campaign highlighted the collective impact of organizations dedicated to supporting Thoroughbreds long after they leave the starting gate. 

“We are encouraged by the incredible support shown by our nonprofit participants, generous donors and industry partners,” said Claire Simms, Sr. Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at CDI. “Gallop for Good was created to support the organizations helping Thoroughbreds thrive beyond the track, and we are proud to help amplify their efforts to provide safe, dignified futures for retired racehorses.”

As a first-of-its-kind national giving campaign for Thoroughbred aftercare, Gallop for Good united 75 organizations in a shared effort to expand awareness, strengthen support and highlight the collective impact of organizations helping equine athletes thrive after their racing careers.

“Being included in Gallop for Good was an incredible experience,” said Natalie Wales, Founder of Thoroughbred Transition Project. “Not only did it introduce our mission to a wider audience, but it also raised more money than we ever imagined possible.”

A recap video highlighting the campaign and its support for Thoroughbred aftercare organizations across the country can be viewed here. For more information about Gallop for Good, click here


About Churchill Downs Incorporated 

Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI”) (Nasdaq: CHDN) has created extraordinary entertainment experiences for over 150 years, beginning with the company’s most iconic and enduring asset, the Kentucky Derby. Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, CDI has expanded through the acquisition, development, and operation of live and historical racing entertainment venues, the growth of the online wagering businesses, and the acquisition, development, and operation of regional casino gaming properties. https://www.churchilldownsincorporated.com/


Churchill Downs Incorporated

Phone: 502-636-4506

Email: [email protected]

Churchill Downs Unveils Monument Honoring Oliver Lewis

On Wednesday, June 24, Churchill Downs and the Oliver Lewis Foundation unveiled a bronze statue honoring Oliver Lewis, the jockey who rode Aristides to victory in the inaugural Kentucky Derby in 1875.

Donated to Churchill Downs by the Lewis family, the statue gives Lewis a visible and lasting place at the racetrack where he made history. At just 18 years old, Lewis became the first winning jockey in Kentucky Derby history, helping launch what is now one of the country’s most famous and beloved sporting traditions.

Read More
Derby City Gaming Hotel Supports Wesley House Back-to-School Bash

Derby City Gaming Hotel proudly presented a $2,500 donation to Wesley House Community Services on Friday, June 19, in support of the organization’s Annual Back-to-School Bash, taking place July 18. As Wesley House’s largest community event of the year, the Back-to-School Bash serves more than 500 children and families by providing backpacks, school supplies and valuable community resources to help students begin the school year prepared and confident.

Read More