Tours : All-Access Paddock Tour at Churchill Downs
Description
This is a once in a lifetime experience that is only available with Derby Experiences!
This exclusive tour will get you inside the fences of Churchill Downs’ Paddock area, for VIP access to the historic saddling paddock where the horses and jockeys prepare for the races!
Whether you’re a novice to the game or an experienced race-tracker, the paddock is the place to be. You won’t find another way into the paddock unless you are competing in the race! Space is very limited so contact your Derby Experiences Representatives today to reserve your spot!
Photos (click for larger images)
Inclusions
- Witness, first-hand, the famed “Riders Up” where jockeys mount their equine athletes and proceed onto the track to compete
- Rub elbows with horse owners, breeders and trainers
- Watch racing officials conduct a final check of equipment for horses and riders
- Listen in while jockeys get last minute instructions
- Hear the inside buzz as spectators and media make their final evaluation about which contender will be the winner
Inside the Experience
Horse racing fans encircle this fenced-area prior to each race for a chance to get a small glimpse of what this tour entails. Surrounded by horse owners, breeders, media and sometimes celebrities, your expert tour guide will permit you access to this exclusive “open air locker room” to witness this one-of-a-kind experience first-hand.
See the vibrant silks donned by each jockey representing racing’s elite owners and witness the majesty of these equine athletes as they are paraded from the backstretch stabling into the paddock. Hear the judges and officials conduct their official checklist with each contender and catch the whispers of each trainer’s last minute instructions to the famed jockeys. Feel the sensation of anticipation when the official call is made to jockeys to mount their horses - “Riders Up!” and the rush of excitement as the crowd roars with their predictions for the winning contenders.
Paddock Tours are limited, and on a first come, first served basis.
Only a few tours are run each day.
Tours begin 30 minutes before the scheduled race and conclude after the famed "riders up" parade before the race begins.
10 people Tour maximum.
Specific tour times and meeting areas will be released a month prior to The Kentucky Derby and specific tour information will be included in your Official Kentucky Derby Ticket Package.
