Red Mile: 2027 Breeders Crown dates announced

The Red Mile, in partnership with the Hambletonian Society, announced Tuesday that the 2027 Breeders Crown finals will be held Friday, October 22, and Saturday, October 23 at the historic Lexington racetrack. Eliminations, as necessary, are scheduled for Friday, October 15 and Saturday, October 16.

The dates were formally unveiled during a press conference at The Red Mile attended by Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton, local dignitaries, community leaders and officials from across the harness racing industry.

Recognized as harness racing’s world championships, the Breeders Crown brings together the sport’s premier Standardbreds, drivers, trainers, owners and breeders. The series features 12 championship events across divisions of age, gait and gender and plays a defining role in determining divisional honors.

“The opportunity to host the Breeders Crown represents a significant moment for The Red Mile, the Lexington community and the future of harness racing in Kentucky,” said Joe Costa, president and CEO of The Red Mile. “Our team is committed to delivering a first-class championship experience that reflects the stature of this event and the history of this racetrack. Lexington has a deep appreciation for championship equine competition, and we look forward to welcoming the sport’s finest horses and horsemen while showcasing harness racing on one of its most important stages.”

Created by the Hambletonian Society in 1984, the Breeders Crown was established to provide a year-end championship in each of harness racing’s major divisions. Since its inception, the series has become one of the sport’s most prestigious and consequential events, attracting leading competitors and racing fans from throughout North America and beyond. The Red Mile has previously hosted two Breeders Crown divisional championships, but 2027 will mark the first time it hosts the complete Breeders Crown series.

“The Breeders Crown is where an entire season of hard work reaches its defining moment—it all comes down to the Breeders Crown,” said John Campbell, president and CEO of the Hambletonian Society. “For the first time, all 12 divisions will be contested at The Red Mile, bringing the very best horses and horsemen in the world to one of racing’s most historic stages. Lexington is the Horse Capital of the World, and The Red Mile’s history and connection to the very best of our sport make it a remarkable setting to crown our champions. We look forward to working with The Red Mile and the Lexington community to create an unforgettable event for everyone to enjoy.”

The announcement comes during The Red Mile’s 2026 live harness racing season and ahead of the track’s signature Grand Circuit meet. Grand Circuit racing will be held October 1–3 and October 8–10, with first post at 1 p.m. each day. The 134th Kentucky Futurity, one of harness racing’s most historic events and the third leg of the Trotting Triple Crown, will headline the Saturday, October 3, program.

Planning for the 2027 Breeders Crown is underway. Additional details regarding tickets, hospitality, sponsorship opportunities and the full schedule of events will be announced as they become available.

-release (Red Mile)