Churchill Downs News Release: Churchill Downs, KTA Team to Award $20,000 in Scholarships on College Day Saturday

Sep 10, 2025

Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association will award $20,000 in scholarships during College Day on Saturday (Sept. 13), which is highlighted by 11 live races including the launch of the Road to the Kentucky Derby, student activities and a meet-and-greet with the Bellarmine men’s basketball team.

Admission gates open at 11:30 a.m. (all times Eastern) with the first race scheduled for 12:45 p.m.

College students who present a valid student ID will receive free admission and be eligible for $20,000 in scholarship prize drawings, including one $10,000 award and five $2,000 awards. One of the scholarships is reserved for children of backstretch employees.

There also will be prize drawings to win VIP paddock tours provided by Amplify Horseracing, exclusive Churchill Downs merchandise and gift cards to The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass.

The Bellarmine men’s basketball team will join Kentucky State University’s track and field team along with the cheer and dance squads from both schools for photos and autographs. The day also includes a mascot stick pony race in the paddock.

College students will receive a 15% discount in the Churchill Downs Store and can learn about various equine programs from the University of Louisville Equine Business Program, Kentucky Equine Management Internship Program and Ed Brown Society.

To purchase tickets and receive additional information, visit www.churchilldowns.com.