Keeneland opens Fall Meet with track upgrades, more than $10M in stakes

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The 17-day Fall Meet at Keeneland kicked off Friday in Lexington.

The historic season features purses for 22 stakes worth a total of $10.85 million. The Grade 1, $1.25 million Coolmore Turf Mile will run Saturday during the signature Fall Stars Weekend, a showcase of horses taking their shots on the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.

Fans headed to the track will notice upgrades this season, including new saddling stalls and Paddock enhancements, new jockey quarters and a new entrance for jockeys, and the Stakes Winner's Circle, where fans will be able to participate in the thrill of the winner's circle.

"We're thrilled to unveil the enhancements we've made to elevate the race-day experience, bringing fans closer than ever to the excitement and pageantry of our sport," Shannon Arvin, Keeneland president and CEO, said in a news release. "With the richest purses in Keeneland history and the 40th anniversary of our iconic turf course, this Fall Meet is set to be a landmark celebration."

The Fall Meet will also introduce a Show Bet Bonus for on-track patrons, a new way to reward players who wager at the track. Wagers will be subject to a 10% takeout versus a 16% takeout off-track, meaning patrons will receive a higher payout for a winning show wager.

Racing during the meet will be conducted Wednesdays through Sundays. Gates open at 11 a.m. Post time for the first race is 1 p.m.

The Fall Meet runs from Oct. 3 to Oct. 25 at the track in the Lexington area. all tickets must be purchased in advance on Keeneland's official ticketing website.

For more information on the Fall Meet, including parking, tailgating options, and special events, click here.

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