The History of Keeneland

The lovely and well-manicured grounds of Keeneland are at the center of the Bluegrass horse industry. The facility is both a major racetrack and an important facility for horse sales. It's a must-see for anyone who loves horses and happens to be in the Lexington, Kentucky, area.

  1. Backstory

    • The Kentucky Association racetrack was closed in 1933, creating the need for a replacement. An early contender was the property of J.O. "Jack" Keene on Versailles Road (then Versailles Pike).

    Foundation

    • In 1935 the Keeneland Association was incorporated, with Hal Price Headley as its first president. They bought the Keene property for $130,000 plus some stock in the association.

    Opening Day

    • The racetrack opened its doors for its first race day on Oct. 15, 1936. Attendance was for the Oct. 15th to 24th race period was 25,337.

    Sales

    • The first auction of thoroughbred race horses at Keeneland was on April 25, 1938. Sales have been a major even there ever since.

    Landmark

    • Keeneland was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986.

    Thoroughbred Center

    • In 2000, Keeneland bought the Kentucky Horse Center from Louisville's Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. They renamed it the Thoroughbred Center.