Churchill Downs Spring Meet Highlights Ortiz Title and Magnitude’s Stephen Foster Win
- Jul 3
- 1 min read
Churchill Downs has wrapped up its 2026 Spring Meet in Louisville, noting strong on-track performances, record crowds under the lights, and key victories that are shaping the national Thoroughbred racing picture.
Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. secured his first Churchill Downs Spring Meet riding title, adding to his 2025 Fall Meet crown to claim a second overall riding championship at the track. Represented by agent Steve Rushing, Ortiz opened the Spring Meet with a runner-up finish on Renegade in Kentucky Derby 152 and maintained his position at the top of the standings through the close of the meet.
In the $2 million Stephen Foster Stakes, promoted as a "Summer Showdown" featuring many of North America’s leading older horses, Dubai World Cup (Grade I) winner Magnitude led throughout and defeated Grade I Pennsylvania Derby winner Baeza by one and one-quarter lengths in the 45th running of the Grade I race at Churchill Downs. The win positioned Magnitude among the top-ranked older horses in the country heading into the second half of the season.
Churchill Downs will now shift attention to its September and Fall meets, which will feature Twilight Thursdays, Downs After Dark programs, Family Adventure Day, Thanksgiving racing, and the Clark Stakes (GII). Fans can explore upcoming events and plan visits for the remainder of the racing calendar.
Looking ahead to 2027, select Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks tickets are already on sale, including reserved seating and Infield General Admission two-day packages. Interested guests can learn more about ticket options and purchase packages in advance of the 2027 racing weekend.