Notable Kentucky Downs Racing Events

• G3 Kentucky Turf Cup | 3-year-olds & up going 1-1/2 mi. on turf
• Dueling Grounds Derby | 3-year-olds going 1-1-5/16 mi. on turf
• More Than Ready Mile | 3-year-olds & up going 1 mi.
• Kentucky Downs Turf Dash | 3-year-olds & up going 6.5f

Kentucky Downs Racing and Track History

Located near the Kentucky – Tennessee border on Interstate 65 and 35 miles north of Nashville, Kentucky Downs is a year round entertainment center that offers live racing in September, simulcasting seven days a week, pari-mutuel wagering on historical horse races, charitable gaming, dining and other events. Horses compete on the unique 1 5/16-mile European style turf course, which features subtle elevation changes, a sweeping turn into the stretch run and a quarter-mile run from the end of the final turn to the finish line.

The Turf Cup is the main event of the Kentucky Cup Turf Festival, which kicks off the track’s brief racing session in September. This race was first held as the Sam Houston Stakes in 1991; Sam Houston, then a state representative and the former governor of Tennessee, fought and won a duel on these grounds in 1832 before moving south and leading the Texas Revolution.

Prior to the practice being outlawed in the 20th century, gentlemen from Tennessee would travel north to settle their differences in pistol duels. The 260 acre piece of land became known as "Dueling Grounds" and was turned into a uniquely-shaped turf-only race track in the 1980s. Opened in 1990, Dueling Grounds was renamed Kentucky Downs in 1998 and is still the only European-style racetrack in America: not only is it not a traditional oval shape, but the horses run uphill for the final furlong.

Kentucky Downs Racetrack Information

With the only European-style racetrack in America, Kentucky Downs features a non-oval shaped course with an early sharp-left turn into the back stretch. In the last 7 furlongs, the course turns right - a feature that only one other track (Santa Anita Park) in the US has.

Kentucky Downs FAQs

Discover essential tips and information on Kentucky Downs racetrack, from race schedules to expert picks, in the FAQs below.

1. What are Kentucky Downs' operating hours?

Kentucky Downs operates primarily on race days, with hours varying depending on the event schedule. Typically, gates open a few hours before the first race, and racing continues into the afternoon or evening.

2. Where can I find Kentucky Downs race entries?

Kentucky Downs race entries are available on the official website and through major racing platforms like Twinspires. These entries provide detailed information about the horses, jockeys, trainers, and odds for each race, helping you make informed betting decisions.

3. What is the Kentucky Downs race schedule?

The Kentucky Downs race schedule is published on the official websites before the start of the racing season. The schedule includes specific dates and times for each race, helping you plan your visit or betting activities accordingly.

4. What are the best bets for Kentucky Downs?

The best bets at Kentucky Downs can vary by race, but expert recommendations are readily available. You can find up-to-date best bet picks from professional handicappers on platforms like TwinSpires, where detailed analysis helps guide your betting decisions.

5. Is parking available at Kentucky Downs?

Yes, Kentucky Downs offers ample parking for visitors, including both general and VIP parking options. Parking is conveniently located near the racetrack, making it easy for attendees to access the venue on race days.