Churchill Downs to help him run the rack was Col. Matt Winn of Louisville. Churchill Downs prospered and the Kentucky Derby then became the preeminent stakes race for three-year-old thoroughbred horses in North America. During that early period, a new clubhouse was built in order to promote social interaction, and new events such as steeplechases, automobile races, and band concerts were held at the track. The State Fair was held on the grounds, featuring the odd spectacle of two locomotives being intentionally crashed head-on in the infield. On June 5, 1907, African American jockey James Lee set a record that has never
Tourist (horse) behind Miss Temple City. Jockey Jose Lezcano said after the race, "I got in good position. The pace was very good. I had plenty of horse, so I followed the horse in front of me (Miss Temple City) and when I asked he gave me the kick I needed. The horse in front (Miss Temple City) can run. It was still a very good race." Tourist next entered the Turf Classic Stakes at Churchill Downs on May 7, finishing fourth behind Divisidero. He then shipped to Santa Anita for the Shoemaker Mile, finishing a fast-closing second to Midnight Storm. He