LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Keeneland Race Course in Lexington generates $1.6 billion in economic impact, according to a newly released economic impact study conducted by the University of Louisville’s Department of Equine Administration and Economics.

The impact includes Keeneland’s racing operations, annual Thoroughbred auctions, supporting business lines and investments in new construction. The study noted much of the economic impact comes from out of state, with around 64% of racing patrons coming from outside of Kentucky, while around 67% of those attending and taking part in annual horse auctions come from out of state. Around 24% of those attending auctions from out of state come from outside the U.S.

“Keeneland’s location in the heart of horse country allows us to serve as a global hub for the Thoroughbred industry,” said Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin. “The impact is felt far beyond the gates of Keeneland as Fayette and surrounding counties play host to these visitors, benefiting local businesses, hotels, restaurants and the entire region. This study reinforces Keeneland’s mission to strengthen our global equine industry and our Central Kentucky community for generations to come.”

“Keeneland is a world-class destination that every Kentuckian, visitor and horse enthusiast loves to visit, and it’s no surprise this Kentucky treasure is also a huge economic engine, generating $1.6 billion in economic impact each year for Lexington and our entire commonwealth,” said Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky. “I want to congratulate the dedicated and hard-working team at Keeneland for putting the best of our new Kentucky home on display.” 

Key findings from the study include:

• Keeneland generates an estimated $1.6 billion plus to the Lexington metro area (Fayette and surrounding counties)
• On a normal year (without construction) the race course generates on average $1.46 billion annually to the Lexington metro area
• Keeneland generates $1.16 billion to the Lexington metro through annual Thoroughbred sales in September, November, January and April 
• Keeneland’s spring and fall race meets attract visitors from all 50 states as well as outside the U.S., generating nearly $300 million annually for the Lexington metro area
• Keeneland’s year-round special events program, retail operations, tour program and Keeneland Library generate an additional $97.7 million to Lexington and surrounding counties
• The track generates nearly $40 million in local, state and federal income taxes
• Keeneland’s ongoing construction generates $166.6 million to the Lexington metro area

The comprehensive study was conducted by UofL Economics Professor Thomas E. Lambert and evaluated Keeneland’s various operations, including the auction sales, fall and spring race meets, year-round special events program, retail, construction, guided tour program and Keeneland Library.