1996

World History

TWA Flight 800 explodes, puzzling Federal investigators.

Surfing the Internet becomes an American obsession.

William Jefferson Clinton re-elected President.

Churchill Downs History

Churchill entered the computer age as the track opened its computer website on March 25 at kentuckyderby.com.

Kentucky Oaks attendance reached a record 91,830, as the race became the second largest attended day in racing behind the Derby.

VISA-USA developed a commercial based on a Kentucky Derby theme at Churchill as part of their sponsorship agreement with the Triple Crown.

The track inaugurated the Oaks-Derby Double wager.

On May 21, the Indiana Gaming Commission issued a riverboat license to Caesars World for a development in adjacent Harrison County.

Jockey Pat Day carried the Olympic Torch under the finish line during its visit to Louisville on June 6.

Just weeks after the announcement of an Indiana riverboat, Churchill’s board passed a resolution on June 13 to aggressively pursue alternative forms of gaming at the track.

Oaks and Derby Day general admission prices were increased to $15 and $30, respectively.

After 20 years as Churchill’s announcer, Mike Battaglia was named the track’s primary television commentator while Kurt Becker was selected to call the races beginning in 1997.