Your Donate Life Day at the Races Guide: Where to go, What to Bring, and What to Expect on Thurby
We’re just days away from Donate Life Spring Day at the Races, and we cannot wait to celebrate this unforgettable day with you at Churchill Downs.
To help you feel prepared and enjoy every moment, here’s your go-to guide for Thurby, April 30.
Know Before You Go
- This is an indoor, climate-controlled space with a private balcony
- All-inclusive food and beverages are provided in Millionaires Row
- No umbrellas are permitted at Churchill Downs.
- Bags cannot be larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- Expect crowds and security lines when entering the track
- Cell service can be spotty, plan ahead with your group
https://www.churchilldowns.com/come-to-the-track/visiting-information/event-information/
What to Bring
A few essentials will make your day seamless:
- Your physical Thurby ticket (required for entry)
- Photo ID
- Cash for tipping dining & bar staff and placing bets
- Comfortable backup shoes or flip flops
- Sunscreen
- Light rain jacket or poncho (umbrellas are not permitted)
- Business cards for networking
- Your best race day energy
Event Highlights
Plan your day around these key moments:
- Gates Open at 10:30 AM
- Chef’s Table Buffet from 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM (approximately)
- First Race at 12:45 PM
- Donate Life Race #4 Sponsored by Francis AI
- Donate Life Race #5 Sponsored by Courtesy Cadillac
- Split the Pot Drawing after Race #7 at 4:03 PM
- Second Chance Drawing after Race #8 at 4:40 PM
- Last Race #12 at 6:53 PM
Getting There: Parking & Transportation
Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC) 937 Phillips Ln, Louisville, KY
- Parking is included with your ticket. Show your ticket upon entry.
- Shuttle service to the track (Black Lot near Paddock Gate)
- Shuttles begin at 9:30 AM
- ADA accessible options available
Paid Parking Option – L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium 2550 S Floyd St, Louisville, KY
- Walking distance to the track
- $40 per car | $150 RV | $200 bus
- Pay on-site
Rideshare Note: Rideshare services do not drop off directly at the track. Plan to use the shuttle or designated offsite areas.
Finding Us: Millionaires Row 4
Once inside Churchill Downs:
- Enter through the Paddock Gate
- Veer right and follow the brick path
- Follow signs to Millionaires Row
- Take escalators or elevators (through glass doors on your left) to the 4th floor
Look for Donate Life signage and our team at the entrance if you need help.
https://www.churchilldowns.com/visit/maps
Race Day Tips
- Pick up your race program at the entrance gate (not available upstairs)
- Place your bets early to avoid long lines
- Betting windows and self-service machines are available throughout the venue
- Minimum bets are small, so it’s easy to join in the fun
- Step out to the balcony for incredible track views
- Pace yourself and enjoy the full experience
Games of Chance (and Impact!)
Join the fun while supporting Donate Life:
Split the Pot Raffle
$5 tickets (cash only)
Second Chance Drawing
Drop your losing bet slip at our table for a chance to win a gift card
Must be present to win.
Capture the Day
Stop by the Donate Life backdrop for photos.
Tag us: @DonateLifeKY
Use: #ThurbyForLife
The Impact of Your Day
Your presence supports organ, eye, and tissue donation awareness across Kentucky and helps provide hope to the more than 100,000 people waiting for a lifesaving transplant. We invite you to take a moment during the day to reflect on the impact you are helping create.
Looking Ahead
Interested in hosting clients or joining us next year? Reach out to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and premium seating on Millionaires Row.
