Winsday at Churchill Downs Supports Nonprofits

Apr 30, 2025 Kentucky Derby

Winsday at Churchill Downs: Racing for a Cause with Louisville's Nonprofit Champions

Derby Week at Churchill Downs is always packed with tradition, style, and energy. But in 2025, Winsday, presented by Resolute Racing, brought a bold new twist to the lineup by spotlighting the heart of Louisville: its nonprofit community. Partnering with the Community Foundation of Louisville, this inaugural event gave racegoers a chance to enjoy thrilling competition on the track while giving back to the organizations that make the city vibrant and strong.

A Day of Purpose and Celebration

Held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, Winsday welcomed guests to a Derby Week experience where “Great Thrills for the Greater Good” took center stage. The day delivered nonstop racing action paired with community-driven philanthropy.

Event Day Highlights:

• Support Through Ticket Sales: Guests who purchased tickets through one of 50 participating nonprofits directly supported those organizations. A portion of each ticket sold went to the registered nonprofit, turning every admission into an act of giving.
• Charity Post Draw: In true Derby fashion, 20 nonprofits were randomly paired with Kentucky Derby contenders. The organization paired with the eventual Derby winner will receive a share of the Derby Week 50/50 Raffle proceeds.
• Second Chance Drawings: For nonprofits not drawn in the Charity Post Draw, a second chance still brought results—with $2,000 awarded to additional causes.
• Supporter Drawings: Guests who purchased tickets through registered nonprofits were entered into random drawings for a $2,000 donation to their selected nonprofit.
• Style Under the Spires: Winsday wasn’t just about giving—it was also about bold fashion statements! Guests rocked eye-catching patterns for the Style Under the Spires contest, held between Races 7 and 8 on the Second Floor Paddock Terrace. The vibrant looks turned heads and celebrated Derby style with purpose.

@churchilldowns Feeling bold for the fashion contest on this beautiful Winsday! #KentuckyDerby #ChurchillDowns #Bold #fashiontiktok ♬ HYPE (Instrumental) -- ROKKA

A New Tradition Takes Root

From the Chef's Table experience to a full 10-race card and inclusive dining packages, Winsday offered something for every guest. But most importantly, it created a new tradition of philanthropy within the pageantry of Derby Week.

With nearly 50 local nonprofits uplifted, Winsday proved that Churchill Downs isn’t just where champions race — it’s where communities rise. The event united first-time fans and lifelong supporters alike in a shared mission: to enjoy the thrill of racing while fueling a stronger Louisville.

@churchilldowns It’s always a good time when we get to support our local charities! #KentuckyDerby #ChurchillDowns #GiveBack ♬ Smile -- Almir Santos

Join the Momentum

Winsday set a new gold standard for community engagement at Churchill Downs. And as we head into the rest of Derby Week, including Thurby, Oaks Day, and the 151st Run for the Roses®, the spirit of giving continues to energize everything we do.