On the following January 1, it becomes a 2-year old and is eligible to race. Thoroughbred racing generates tremendous enthusiasm in Kentucky. Bluegrass Downs at Paducah, Churchill Downs at Louisville, Ellis Park at Henderson, Keeneland Race Course at Lexington, Turfway Park at Florence, and Dueling Grounds in Franklin. However, million-dollar yearlings are uncommon, and nationally they represent only a fraction of a percentage of the yearlings sold at auction. Many aspects of the Thoroughbred industry are highlighted at Kentucky's institutional tribute to the horse - the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Harness racing is also popular in Kentucky.
Harness racing is offered at Red Mile Harness Track in Lexington and Riverside Downs in Ashland. The Kentucky Derby is the quintessential Kentucky holiday, patterned after the Epsom Derby held since 1780 at Epsom Downs in Surrey, England. It is the first race in racing's Triple Crown, which also includes the Preakness and the Belmont. Kentuckians otherwise completely indifferent to Thoroughbred horse racing get into the Derby spirit by attending one of the many Derby parties held throughout the state. Approximately 1.5 million attend the festival.