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Breeders' Cup 2011: Why Classic Horse Race Should Always Be at Churchill Downs
November 3, 2011
The Breeders' Cup is back at the prestigious Churchill Downs for the second straight year, and this is a trend that needs to continue.
This two day event features over 20 different races, but the biggest one of them all is the $5 million Breeders' Cup Classic, which will kick off late Saturday evening.
This is the 28th Breeders' Cup, and it's also the record eighth time the race is held at Churchill Downs.
Famous for the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is the most well known horse track.
For a sport that needs to catch the eye of non-fans or casual fans, having the biggest race since the summer at a mega track such as Churchill Downs really helps.
The name alone will draw in viewers, which will be hard to do since the big race is right in the thick of college football.
Breeders’ Cup Chairman William S. Farish knew the importance of getting the race back at Churchill Downs. Per Breeders' Cup press release:
"The prospect of consecutive years at Churchill Downs combined with Kentucky’s strong business climate and legislative incentives are sure to make the event a tremendous success for the Breeders’ Cup, greater Louisville and the state,
Churchill Downs continues to be one of the world’s greatest racing facilities, and is extremely popular with our horsemen and fans. We are enjoying an excellent relationship with Bob Evans and the Churchill management team.
On behalf of our Board and Trustees and the racing and breeding industry which benefit the Breeders’ Cup, we appreciate Churchill’s continued enthusiasm and support in extending our relationship for the 2011 World Championships."
Farish knows this race wouldn't be as popular if it weren't held at Churchill Downs.
The legendary track always helps publicity, and if it weren't hosting the 2011 Breeders' Cup then the event wouldn't do as well.
Horse racing gets all the love in the summer with the Triple Crown series, but other than that, only the die-hard fans pay attention to any other race.
The Breeders' Cup can change easily change that, but only if it stays at Churchill Downs.
Competing against football will be tough, but with the esteemed race track attached to it, the Breeders' Cup will get attention this Saturday.