(WHAS11) - For the first time in its 135 year history, the track at Churchill Downs shined in the dark. Beginning an early training session Monday at 5am, the new, temporary lights at Churchill Downs were turned on for training sessions. It's all in preparation for three historic sessions of "Downs After Dark." The track will hold night-racing Friday, June 19, Friday, June 26 and Thursday, July 2.
Churchill Downs officials say it's an attempt to bring in more horse-racing fans to its struggling track. The lights, installed by Musco Lighting, are temporary. Downs officials plan to gauge the public's interest before scheduling more night races or permanent lights.
Tickets for the night racing sessions cost $10; opposed to the normal $3.
