Middle Tennessee horse racing fans will have another chance to see some of the sport's biggest names just across the state line next summer, as Kentucky Downs has unveiled its 2026 racing schedule featuring the $3 million Nashville Derby and a record-setting $37 million purse.
The Mint Kentucky Downs announced July 21 that its 2026 meet will run for seven race days between Aug. 29 and Sept. 9 at the Franklin, Kentucky track, located about an hour north of Nashville.
The schedule includes several graded stakes races, Breeders' Cup qualifiers and the Nashville Derby.
Officials said the meet will offer a total purse of $37 million, with some of the largest individual race payouts in American horse racing.
"Last year, our racetrack attracted racing fans from all over the country and was viewed by millions globally. We had horses come from all over Europe to compete and set wagering records, making Franklin, KY, an important stop on the racing calendar," said Vice President of Racing at Kentucky Downs Ted Nicholson in a statement.
#kentucky #downs #million
The Mint Kentucky Downs announced July 21 that its 2026 meet will run for seven race days between Aug. 29 and Sept. 9 at the Franklin, Kentucky track, located about an hour north of Nashville.
The schedule includes several graded stakes races, Breeders' Cup qualifiers and the Nashville Derby.
Officials said the meet will offer a total purse of $37 million, with some of the largest individual race payouts in American horse racing.
"Last year, our racetrack attracted racing fans from all over the country and was viewed by millions globally. We had horses come from all over Europe to compete and set wagering records, making Franklin, KY, an important stop on the racing calendar," said Vice President of Racing at Kentucky Downs Ted Nicholson in a statement.
#kentucky #downs #million
3 months ago
