Road to the Kentucky Derby Kickoff

The Road Begins at Churchill Downs

Every Kentucky Derby journey has a beginning.

The Iroquois marks an early stop on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, giving emerging 2-year-olds the opportunity to earn valuable qualifying points. For fillies with Kentucky Oaks aspirations, the Pocahontas provides an early opportunity to earn points on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks.

Months before the fields for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks take shape, September offers racing fans the chance to discover the names and stories that could matter when spring arrives.

Iroquois Stakes

The first steps toward the Kentucky Derby.

The Iroquois brings promising 2-year-olds to Churchill Downs with more than a stakes victory on the line. The race awards qualifying points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, beginning the long journey toward the first Saturday in May.

For racing fans, it’s a chance to watch the Derby picture begin to develop at the same historic track where that journey ultimately leads.

Pocahontas Stakes

The road to the lilies begins here.

The Pocahontas puts the next generation of 2-year-old fillies in the spotlight, with qualifying points toward the Kentucky Oaks at stake.

It’s an early opportunity to meet emerging contenders and follow their progress as the Road to the Kentucky Oaks unfolds from fall into spring.

See Tomorrow’s Contenders Today

September at Churchill Downs brings a different kind of anticipation. The horses are young. The possibilities are wide open. And every performance can offer a first glimpse at what comes next.

Join us beneath the Twin Spires on September 12 as the Road to the Kentucky Derby and Road to the Kentucky Oaks begin to take shape.

Explore Ticket Options

Dining | Reserved Seating | General Admission | Suites

Event Information:

Saturday, September 12 | Gates Open: 11:30 a.m.