Churchill Downs Racetrack’s Jockey Club Suites, built and officially opened just in time for the 2004 Kentucky Derby, will undergo a massive renovation valued at $14 million. The purpose of the renovation procedure is to modernize the luxurious hospitality offerings at the iconic racetrack home of The Kentucky Derby, the longest yearly sporting event in the US held every year since 1875. 

All of Churchill Downs’ 61 suites located on the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors at the Jockey Club in the tower adjacent to the historic Twin Spires along the homestretch will be included in the renovation project. Plans also include all restrooms, dining spaces, and common areas of the club used by up to 2,500 guests, which is the Jockey Club Suites’ maximum accommodation capacity. 

The Suites, “a Core Premium Hospitality Product” 

According to Churchill Downs’ president, Mike Anderson, the modernization project has the purpose of guaranteeing that both existing and upcoming suite holders will be granted the premium entertainment experiences that Churchill Downs is best known for, especially during the much-anticipated Kentucky Derby Week along with the rest of the popular racing events including the thoroughbred horse race meets in spring, September and fall held in Louisville.

Prices for a suite at the Jockey Club start at $750 and they go up during the biggest events throughout the year. For example, during the Kentucky Derby, guests frequently pay more than $200,000 for a single suite. Single suite options can accommodate up to 24 guests while double suites can host up to 50 guests. All suites offer food and beverage options that can be customized by guests according to their personal needs.

All rooms feature private self-service wagering terminals, reserved parking, souvenir glasses on Derby Day and Oaks Day, along with a dedicated wait staff, a wet bar, temperature-controlled bar and kitchen areas with dedicated lounge seatings, and private balconies with panoramic views over the racetrack.

The Jockey Club Suites Clubhouse features dining tables suitable for ten guests per table. The same Clubhouse is also home to the Grand Foyer, the Triple Crown Ballroom, and the Derby and Oaks meeting rooms. The freshly opened Triple Crown Balcony is a top-tier rental space for special events held during the year.

The Makeover to Be Completed in Time for the Next Derby

While Churchill Downs has not offered any details regarding the exact modernization that will take place at the suites, the process is expected to be over right in time for the upcoming 150th Kentucky Derby that will take place on May 3-4, 2024. 

The 149th Derby held on May 5, 2023, once again gathered over 150,000 exuberant fans eager to watch America’s greatest race. Next year’s derby is expected to bring together the same vibrant and spirited public, many of whom will be able to seek accommodation in the freshly renovated suites at the Jockey Club. 

At the end of June, FanDuel’s director of communications, Alexander Pitocchelli, confirmed their plans to sign up a partnership with Churchill Downs in order to secure access to Kentucky’s sports betting market.

Last September, Churchill Downs Incorporated acquired Ellis Park Racing and Gaming in Henderson, Kentucky as a result of a cash deal valued at $79 million.

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