Originally, the Kentucky Derby was ran as a 1 1/2 mile race, but changed in 1896 to its current 1 1/4 mile distance. Shortly after, the track became known as Churchill Downs, after John and Henry Churchill who provided the land. Upon returning home to Kentucky, Clark organized the Louisville Jockey Club to raise money for a racing facility just outside the city. While travelling to England, he visited the Derby, a renowned race that had ran annually since 1780. The idea of the horse race originated from Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr., grandson of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition. The thoroughbred race has taken place every year since 1875, under the famous twin-spires of Churchill Downs and is preluded by a two-week festival including a large fireworks display over the Ohio River, concerts, hot-air balloon race and Steamboat Race. The first weekend of May is an exciting one around Louisville, KY, celebrating the time-honored tradition of the Kentucky Derby.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |