Vice President of Corporate Communications, Churchill Downs
Search every verified Tonya Abeln interview, podcast appearance, and on-the-record quote — each transcript cross-checked by AI and human review to confirm speaker identity. Tonya Abeln, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Churchill Downs and President of the Churchill Downs Foundation, has been active in promoting the company's community engagement and the 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby. In September 2024, she discussed "502 Tuesday," a local event offering $5 admission, describing it as an opportunity for Churchill Downs to "open those gates and say come one, come all." She also highlighted the new $200 million paddock, which she said "brought people together" and "created all of these layers for everyone to gather." In a podcast, Abeln noted that Churchill Downs has grown from four racetracks to nine racetracks, 30 casinos, and a large online wagering platform since 2007, employing over 10,000 people. Abeln has emphasized the company's philanthropic efforts, stating that the Churchill Downs Foundation focuses on "offsetting any footprint or impact that may be made as a result of just doing business." She cited initiatives such as sponsoring 150 horse statues for "Galapalooza" to benefit the Brightside Foundation and a $150,000 sponsorship for Gift for Goods Louisville Day. Abeln also discussed the company's support for the backside community, jockeys, and horse aftercare, as well as its commitment to reducing inequalities through partnerships with organizations like the Community Foundation of Louisville. She described her role as "living my dream" and said that "human connection is the most important thing to me."
“Churchill Downs Incorporated as a company has a long tradition of being what we hope is a responsible corporate neighbor, both in Louisville and in any of the communities in which we operate. We are really committed to supporting organizations that improve the quality of life and support the unique culture of the city.”
“The Churchill Downs Foundation focuses on giving back to the unsung heroes of the Kentucky Derby and horse racing, including aftercare for horses after their racing careers, support for jockeys, and the backside community that makes the event possible.”
“We have a great responsibility to make sure the backside community, which is migratory but often has families year-round in Louisville, has a good quality of life and access to needed resources.”
“The new $200 million Paddock is three times bigger than before, integrating traditional architecture with modern design, and will offer some of the best experiences in all of sports worldwide.”
“Since 2007, Churchill Downs has grown from four thoroughbred racetracks to nine racetracks, 30 casinos, and a large online wagering platform, employing over 10,000 people now.”
“The pandemic was one of the toughest times in my career, having to lay off many employees and manage cash flow carefully, but we prioritized communication and resilience to navigate through it.”
“Leadership is about learning skills, taking risks, and doing the work even if it means lateral moves; you have to do some of the things you ask others to do to lead effectively.”
“The jockeys are amazing athletes who face demanding physical and mental challenges; we support them with nutritional and mental health resources and fundraisers like 'Jocktails' to aid the Permanently Disabled Jockey Fund.”
“The Kentucky Derby is a unique communal sporting event where everyone cheers for the horses, not against each other, creating a special energy and sense of community.”
“The Kentucky Derby week has evolved into a holiday with multiple events like Oaks, Thurby, and Champions Day, attracting large crowds and celebrating Louisville's heritage.”
“50 Tuesday is so important at Churchill Downs because it lets us celebrate the community that has made 150 years possible for us. This day has become one of the most popular days for locals, and it happened so quickly after we kicked it off last year.”
“People kind of resisted 50 Tuesday at first, but it took off so quickly, partly because of the $5 general admission. We hear the community talk about cost-prohibitive things through Derby season, and this is our opportunity to open those gates and say come one, come all, have a great day with us.”
“For the first time, many locals are stepping into the brand new paddock. It is overwhelming in the best possible way because it is so grand and it brought people together instead of keeping them out.”
“The new paddock creates all these layers for everyone to gather and look at those beautiful horses and just be in on the energy at the same time. It really was like a red carpet for them, creating more opportunity for people to be part of that special moment.”
“Between races, we celebrate other organizations and companies in Louisville who are also 150 years old like Churchill Downs. That's hard to do; there aren't many of them, and we honor their memories and contributions.”
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