FRANKLIN, KY (SEPTEMBER 3, 2015) — The 24th season of live racing at Kentucky Downs in Franklin, KY, will kick off Saturday with a 10-race card contested over North America’s only European-style turf course.

Opening day will feature 113 entries and purses (boosted by KTDF Funds) totaling more than $1.5 million. The kickoff event will be highlighted by a trio of $300,000 stakes: the Calumet Farm Juvenile, the Encore Juvenile Fillies and the 18th running of the More Than Ready Mile.

The field of ten contenders in the More Than Ready Mile is topped by Undrafted, who is fresh off a group 1 victory at this year’s Royal Ascot. The five-year-old gelding will face off against Departing, victor in the Grade 2 Firecracker Stakes at Churchill Downs this June, and Regally Ready, last year’s winner who will return to defend his title.

One Legend, meanwhile, has been installed at the morning-line favorite for the Calumet Farm Juvenile. The Ken McPeek trainee gamely captured his last start at Ellis Park and will be ridden here in the 7-furlong contest by Corey J. Lanerie.

“This is Thoroughbred racing at its highest level, with world class horses and internationally recognized jockeys and trainers,” said Kentucky Downs President Corey Johnsen. “I’m sure horseplayers will enjoy our full fields, wagering format and low takeout. Best of luck to all participants. I look forward to a great live season.”

Full cards are also set for live racing at Kentucky Downs on September 10, 12, 16 and 19 with a total 12 stakes and record purses totaling $7.5 million.

Post time for Saturday’s first race is 1:35 pm (CDT). General Admission and parking are free, and this year the track is also offering several premium seating options, including the Tailgate Party Lot, The Turf Club and The Finish Line Tent. Reservations for unique seating can be made by calling (270) 586-7094 or by visiting http://www.kentuckydowns.com.

About Kentucky Downs: Located near the Kentucky-Tennessee border off Interstate 65, the year-round entertainment center offers live racing on its unique mile and five-sixteenth European-style turf course in September. Simulcasting is available seven days a week, as well as pari-mutuel wagering on historical horse races, charitable gaming, dining and other events. Horse racing has been conducted at the facility since 1990, when it was called Dueling Grounds Race Course.