Kentucky Derby 2013: Analyzing Appeal of Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs isn't just the racetrack where the Kentucky Derby takes place. It's one of the most exceptional sports venues in the United States. The aura that surrounds the Louisville attraction, especially around Kentucky Derby time, is special.

The track, which formally opened in 1875, is an example of horse racing at its best. From the tangible aspects like the facilities and scenery to the intangibles, most notably the unique atmosphere, nothing else in the sport can completely match it.

Of course, Churchill Downs is known for its trademark twin spires, which rise high above the finish line and stand out on derby day. HRTV passed along a terrific picture of the spires as the sun rose in Louisville a handful of days before the sport's main event.

Those factors make Churchill Downs a popular destination on any race day. It's also why the track has been home to the Breeders' Cup multiple times, including 2010 and 2011. Everything gets taken to a completely different level on derby day, though.

Last year, more than 165,000 people packed into Churchill Downs to watch the Kentucky Derby, which was a new record, according to the race's official site. They watched I'll Have Another win the first leg of the Triple Crown with a terrific stretch run.

When you have that many people in the same place, it becomes less of a day at the track and more of a party. And Churchill Downs has embraced that over the years, as illustrated by the jam-packed infield and the wild hats that are always on display.

The crowd slowly begins to grow throughout the day as the undercard rolls on. But once the horses approach the gate for the "Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" the focus shifts completely toward the track to see which horse will make history.

By the time the huge field of talented three-year-old horses turn for home, the place is electric. Nothing quite compares to the dash toward the finish line.

Churchill Downs reaches its peak during that 20-second stretch, which can often feel like the entire two minutes because so many things are happening at once. The crowd going wild, the horses in full stride and, once the dust settles, a horse that stands two wins away from the Triple Crown.

All told, the Kentucky Derby provides Churchill Downs with an annual chance to shine. It never disappoints.