Since the late 18th century, Kentucky, commonly known as the blue grass state, has held a major role in horse breeding and racing. Therefore it’s little surprise that it should also produce the most popular and internationally acclaimed horse race in history, the Kentucky Derby.
In 1872 Kentuckian Col. Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., grandson of the famous William Clark, of the historic Lewis and Clark expedition, conceived a brilliant idea, while traveling across Europe. A racing enthusiast Meriwether decided to establish in his home country something that famous races such as the Epsom Derby, of England, and the Grand Prix de Paris, of France, had to offer, causing him on his return to organize the Louisville Jockey Club.
The general idea of the club was to raise funds for the construction of a racing facility just outside Louisville. Relatives of Meriwether, John and Henry Churchill provided the land for Churchill Downs, enabling construction to begin on the facility. Although it was always known as Churchill Downs, in honor of its benefactors, the name didn’t claim its official ownership until 1937.
The first Kentucky Derby was held on May 17, 1875. An estimated crowd of 10,000 gathered to witness 15 three year olds compete. Jockey Oliver Lewis rode “Aristides” (trained by hall of famed, Ansel Williamson) to a winning finish, making history together as the first winners of the inaugural Kentucky Derby. Lewis and Aristides would later on that year take a second place finish in the Belmont Stakes.
Although the inaugural race itself was a proven success, the track fell under financial difficulties. In an attempt to reclaim its glory in 1894 the new Louisville Jockey Club stepped in with renewed capital and improved the facilities. Despite their attempts however the track continued to flounder until 1902, when Col. Matt Winn, came along, and together with his syndicate of businessmen they acquired the struggling facility. With his numerous ideas and ingenuity (which would later spark the Kentucky Derby Festival) he recreated the Kentucky Derby bringing it to the fame and prestige it is now known for today, by ushering in the dawn of a new era in horse racing.
Because of this the Kentucky Derby has now become a classic, through its popularity and international acclaim. There is no other race that has stood the test of time as well, or one that remains through each passing generation as an icon in the much enjoyed sport of horse racing.
