LOUISVILLE, Ky. — England is getting the chance to enjoy a little piece of Kentucky this week.

Churchill Downs is celebrating the upcoming 150th Kentucky Derby by showing off some of history of the iconic race at Ascot Racecourse in Ascot, Berkshire, England. English racing fans are being treated to Mint Juleps, the Kentucky Derby trophy and a special backdrop allowing them to take pictures of themselves in front of a rose-filled backdrop. This is all taking place in the Queen Anne Enclosure.

The Kentucky Derby Trophy is on display at Ascot Racecourse in Ascot, Berkshire, England. The Kentucky Derby is being celebrated since the 150th Derby will be run on May 4, 2024. (Churchill Downs)

Casey Ramage, Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at Churchill Downs Racetrack said, “Our storied history was inspired by English horse racing, so to begin celebrating our 150th anniversary at Ascot Racecourse is a meaningful honor.” 

English racing fans are getting to learn and enjoy about the history of the Kentucky Derby during the five-day Royal Ascot race. Mint Juleps are of course being featured (Churchill Downs)

The Kentucky Derby is being featured during the five-day Royal Ascot race.

The Kentucky Derby’s history began in 1872 when Meriwether Lewis Clark, grandson of William Clark of the famed pair Lewis and Clark, attended the Epsom Derby in England. Inspired by his experiences, Clark returned, determined to create a similar horse racing event in the United States. On May 17, 1875, the Louisville Jockey Club—now known as Churchill Downs—hosted the first Kentucky Derby with 15 horses, including winner Aristides, and over 10,000 spectators.

The Derby is the longest, continually run annual sporting event in America. Derby 150 is just over 300 days away and will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2024.