Churchill Downs
America’s Race
Research, Strategy, Identity, Event Identity, Guidelines

Churchill Downs Inc. leaned on SME to grow the race’s commercial business and attract new generations of racing fans. The organization sought to achieve these goals by establishing a master identity program, and brand architecture for numberous sub-brands and events.




























After identifying the core assets and essence of the Kentucky Derby, we infused the distinct culture of the American South and the event itself into a new master brand identity. Serving as a visual articulation for a broader strategic initiative that elevated the race to a full-fledged lifestyle event, the new identity successfully lead the way to SME developing each of the last 12 event marks.

See more of our work.
See more of our work.
LOCATIONS
NY
183 Madison Ave, Ste 1701
New York, NY 10016
212.924.5700
183 Madison Ave, Ste 1701
New York, NY 10016
212.924.5700
SF
900 Larkspur Landing Circle
Suite 900-125
Larkspur, CA 94939
844.214.6693
CONTACT
NEW BUSINESS
Conor O’Flaherty
Managing Director
coflaherty@smebranding.com
Walter Whitman
Chief Creative Officer
walt.whitman@learfield.com
FOLLOW
A Learfield IMG College Company
© 2021 SME II, LLC
© 2021 SME II, LLC