The Kentucky horse racing circuit returns to Churchill Downs for its 13th annual 14-day September Meet from September 11 to 28, featuring a robust schedule with five stakes races highlighted on a lucrative Saturday program totaling $2.189 million in prize money. Key races include the $300,000 Iroquois (GIII) and Pocahontas (GIII), which kick off the Road to the 152nd Kentucky Derby and Oaks respectively, both part of the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Dozen Bonus Series. The meet concludes with the $500,000 Lukas Classic (GII) on September 27, honoring the late Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas and serving as a prep for the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
In addition to racing, Churchill Downs offers various special events such as Twilight Thursdays with live music and food trucks, First Responders Day, College Day with scholarship giveaways, Senior Day, Family Adventure Day, and Thoroughbred Aftercare Day. Racing occurs five days a week with varying race counts, including nine races on Wednesdays, eight on Thursdays, and up to eleven on Saturdays, providing a dynamic and engaging experience for fans throughout the meet.
