LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby will feature the richest purse in race history.
Churchill Downs announced Wednesday this year's purse will be a record $5 million. The winner will receive $3.1 million.
The purse is a $2 million increase from 2023.
Churchill Downs also announced its 2024 Spring Meet schedule, which will feature a record 50 races worth $25.6 million. The 43-date schedule runs from April 27-June 30.
The purse for the Kentucky Oaks was also boosted to $1.5 million. All Grade I events will be worth at least $1 million.
"These record purse increases are a symbol of the health of horse racing in Kentucky,” said Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Incorporated. “Churchill Downs Incorporated’s over $1 billion investment into live and historical horse racing in Kentucky over the last five years has meaningfully strengthened the entire Kentucky Derby Week and year-round racing program. It’s important to acknowledge the state legislature for its commitment to working closely with private enterprise in a truly collaborative partnership to support the continued growth of Kentucky’s signature industry.”
The Derby runner-up will win $1 million, with $500,000 awarded to third place, $250,000 to fourth and $150,000 to fifth.
The purse for the Derby was $3 million each year since 2019.
“It is truly gratifying to view the steady growth of the Churchill Downs racing product and the entire Kentucky horse racing and breeding industry, which bettors around the world have embraced,” said Churchill Downs Racetrack President Mike Anderson. “Through the purses generated by the racing association and the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund, Kentucky horsemen and horsewomen are reaping the benefits of Churchill Downs Incorporated’s historic investment as we celebrate this year’s milestone 150th Kentucky Derby.”
You can view the track's full calendar of events for the Spring Meet here.
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