Kick Off the Road to the Kentucky Derby Series at Churchill Downs: September Meet Preview
The Road to the Kentucky Derby series kicks off this weekend at Churchill Downs during the 14-day September Meet. The series, which began in 2013, awards points to the top five finishers in select qualifying races. These points determine the preference list for entries into the 152nd Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026.
The first race in the series is the 44th running of the $300,000 Grade III Iroquois for 2-year-old Thoroughbreds on Saturday, Sept. 13. The Road to the Kentucky Oaks series also starts on Saturday with the $300,000 Pocahontas (GII) race for fillies. The Oaks series awards points for the 152nd running of the Kentucky Oaks on May 1, 2026.
The September Meet at Churchill Downs begins on Thursday, Sept. 11, and runs through Sept. 28. Tickets are now available for the 26-day Fall Meet, which includes the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and starts on Oct. 26, continuing through Nov. 30.
To find out more about the series and access schedules for the races, visit the provided link. Tickets for the September Meet and Fall Meet can be purchased through the links provided. Additional ticketing information is also available for those interested.
Don't miss the exciting races and events at Churchill Downs as the Road to the Kentucky Derby and Oaks series unfold. Get your tickets now and be part of the action at the historic racetrack.