Kentucky Derby Sees $165 Million in WagersThis Past Weekend's Race Breaks Attendance Record |
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The Kentucky Derby card on Saturday saw a total of $165.2 million in world-wide wagers from all gambling sources — the third-highest in Derby history and an increase of 1.5 percent over the last year’s $162.7 million, according to a press release.
Churchill Downs made nearly $30 million in profit, returning $135.3 million to bettors — which amounts to 81.9 percent of total wagering on the Derby Day race card. The 137th running of the race also broke the long-time attendance record with 164,858 fans. The previous record of 163,628 was set in 1974.
“Today’s record-breaking attendance and near-record wagering prove that the Kentucky Derby is not only an enduring American tradition but one of the most popular and well-supported sports and entertainment events available,” Churchill Downs President Kevin Flanery said in the press release. “When you deliver competitive, high-quality racing packaged with an unforgettable social experience, fans will want to be part of it. We saw evidence again this year of the Derby’s power as an economic engine and cultural phenomenon. Our Churchill Downs team is tremendously proud of that outcome, and we want to thank our fans on-track and around the world and the thousands of people outside our company that contribute their time and talents to make each Derby Day successful and memorable.”
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