If you’ve opened this story, you’re likely interested in the iconic Kentucky Derby but may not possess extensive knowledge about horse racing or the esteemed Triple Crown. That’s perfectly fine – we’re here to clarify and enrich your understanding.
The Kentucky Derby has earned its title as the most-watched horse race in the United States, regarded as one of the nation’s premier sporting events. Originating in 1875 with Aristides claiming victory in the inaugural race, the Derby has transformed into a cultural phenomenon that transcends mere equestrian competition.
The Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve marks the first jewel in the prestigious Triple Crown series. This series includes the Preakness Stakes held two weeks later in Baltimore and concludes with the Belmont Stakes, which takes place three weeks afterward in New York. Notably, only 13 horses have showcased the extraordinary feat of winning all three races, earning the coveted title of Triple Crown winners. But before delving into that, let’s start with the core elements of the Derby – who, what, when, where, and why.
WHO: The Best 3-Year-Old Racehorses
Eligible for entry in the Kentucky Derby are exclusively 3-year-old racehorses, whether male or female, allowing a Thoroughbred to compete just once in its lifetime. Horses must not only be nominated for the Triple Crown but also qualify through a series of preparatory races that distribute points to the top four finishers. The Derby typically features a maximum of 20 runners, creating an exhilarating atmosphere at Churchill Downs.
Throughout history, only three fillies – Regret (1915), Genuine Risk (1980), and Winning Colors (1988) – have triumphantly crossed the finish line first in the Kentucky Derby, adding to the race’s allure.
WHAT: The ‘Run for the Roses’
The term ‘run for the roses’ stems from the tradition of draping the winning horse with a blanket made of roses after the thrilling race. Limited to 20 starters, the Kentucky Derby challenges competitors with a demanding 1 ¼-mile race on a dirt main track, combining elements of both speed and stamina. This historic race is renowned as the oldest continuously held major sporting event in the U.S., which has led to its popular moniker, “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”
WHEN: The First Saturday in May
Traditionally, the Kentucky Derby is held annually, with the exception of pandemic interruptions, on the first Saturday in May. After consistently taking place on that date from 1946 to 2019, the race was postponed to September in 2020 due to COVID-19. However, the Derby reclaimed its traditional spot on the calendar in 2021 and continued to captivate audiences.
In 2024, the Kentucky Derby impressively marked its 150th running, with the victory claimed by Mystik Dan, setting the stage for this year’s 151st running. The race has been conducted outside May only three times in its history, including a Monday in April 1901 and a Saturday in June 1945; each of the special races remains a notable exception.
Kentucky is widely regarded as the heart of Thoroughbred racing in the United States, with approximately 46% of all racehorses bred in the state. This fact reinforces the significance of hosting the most crucial race in the nation at Churchill Downs. This historic racetrack in Louisville, situated about 70 miles west of the breeding capital in Lexington, boasts its iconic Twin Spires, which rise majestically above the grandstand.
Churchill Downs, inaugurated in 1875, not only held the first Kentucky Derby that same year but has since become synonymous with the event. The track is named after John and Henry Churchill, who leased land to their enterprising nephew Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., a descendant of the famed explorer William Clark.
WHY: Inspired Abroad
The origins of the Kentucky Derby can be traced back to 1872, when Meriwether Lewis Clark ventured to Europe and attended the Epsom Derby in England, a prestigious event established in 1780. His encounters with members of the French Jockey Club inspired him to create a similar racing spectacle in the United States.
Clark, having secured a plot of land for the racetrack, orchestrated fundraising efforts for his vision, leading to the establishment of Churchill Downs in Louisville. The inaugural Kentucky Derby took place on May 17, 1875, featuring 15 3-year-old Thoroughbreds competing in a 1 ½-mile race before a crowd of approximately 10,000 spectators, with Aristides emerging victorious.
Over the years, the Kentucky Derby has evolved from its humble beginnings into the most significant event on the racing calendar, becoming a focal point for horse racing enthusiasts every spring as 3-year-old competitors reach new heights in their physical and mental development.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2025
Despite the pandemic-induced postponements in 2020, the Kentucky Derby returned to its traditional scheduling in 2021. Last year, to commemorate Derby 150, Churchill Downs unveiled a thoroughly refurbished paddock area complemented by increased seating options. Exciting developments continue as part of a multi-year enhancement project. Anticipation will rise for the 2025 Kentucky Derby, which promises a “reimagined” Oaks and Derby infield featuring permanent infrastructure. Expect to navigate heavy traffic and delays in Louisville during the Derby week.
As has become customary, the race will be broadcast live on NBC, ensuring fans experience the excitement across various platforms, including Peacock and other NBC networks. We will keep you updated on what to expect at Churchill Downs on May 3, 2025, providing handy guides for those planning to attend this grand event.
PICK A HORSE TO ROOT FOR
Now that you’re equipped with the essentials, it’s time to choose a horse to support in the Kentucky Derby. What criteria do you use for this decision? Typically, it all comes down to the horse!
Racehorses, much like people, have distinct personalities and characters, both on and off the track.
Thoroughbreds, known for their spirited nature, exhibit a range of temperaments. Some enjoy being venerated and indulged with carrots, apples, and peppermints, while others may show a more aggressive side. You may be drawn to a flashy competitor or perhaps one with a more understated background resonates with you. Certain horses possess unmatched speed, eager to take the lead from the beginning of the race, while others perform better at the rear, preferring to save their energy for an explosive finish, known in racing circles as a closing strategy. Sometimes, selecting a favorite comes down to simply appreciating the horse’s name.
We’ll provide a slideshow featuring contenders for the Kentucky Derby, complete with their nicknames and quirks to assist you in your selection in the coming months. Additionally, we’ll publish a handy Derby Cheat Sheet and an easy “At a Glance” overview of contenders for the run for the roses. Be sure to check out historical insights and trends to keep an eye on, along with details on the importance of post positions. Our Triple Crown page will provide updates on leading contenders and links to their profiles.
Moreover, there are practical reasons to cheer for a Kentucky Derby competitor. If you wager $5 to win on a horse with 20-1 odds, the excitement builds as that horse contends for the lead in the final stretch of Churchill Downs on Derby day. Expressions like “C’mon, one time!” or “Bring him home for me, [insert jockey name]!” will surely convey your enthusiasm.
SPEAKING OF NAMES
One intriguing aspect for newcomers to horse racing is understanding how racehorses receive their names. Owners have the freedom to select names for their horses, but these must be approved by The Jockey Club, North America’s official registry for Thoroughbreds, which has specific regulations governing horse naming.
Names often draw inspiration from pop culture phenomena, sports themes, or patriotic sentiments. In some instances, a single Tweet has spurred a memorable horse name, such as that of two-time champion Covfefe, owned by LNJ Foxwoods. Many owners also opt to name horses after children or in remembrance of loved ones.
The lineage of racehorses also plays a significant role in naming conventions. For instance, the legendary Storm Cat sired many notable “cats,” including 1994 Preakness Stakes winner Tabasco Cat and 1999 Breeders’ Cup Classic victor Cat Thief. Similarly, Kitten’s Joy produced champion Big Blue Kitten and 2015 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf winner Stephanie’s Kitten.
In most cases, racehorses bear names that reflect their pedigree, creatively combining the names of their sire (father) and dam (mother). Some owners adhere to simplicity, like breeder Chuck Fipke, whose horses have names such as Forever Unbridled (from sire Unbridled’s Song and dam Lemons Forever) or Perfect Shirl (from Perfect Soul and Lady Shirl).
Leveraging this structure, names can also reflect creativity, such as Tiz the Law (2020 Belmont Stakes winner, from Constitution and Tizfiz) or stakes victor Shoplifted (from Into Mischief and Shopit).
Should a Derby contender’s name pique your interest, it could be the perfect horse to cheer for. Or perhaps there exists a deeper narrative behind the horse that makes you want to rally behind them …
CONNECT WITH THE ‘CONNECTIONS’
When you hear the term “connections” in reference to a horse, it typically refers to the individuals involved with the Kentucky Derby runners.
The sport attracts a diverse array of characters – jockeys, trainers, owners, and breeders hailing from various backgrounds and regions. The stories behind these people are as compelling as those of the horses themselves. By finding a narrative that resonates with you, you can easily select your own Kentucky Derby horse. For instance, 21 years ago, as a Delaware resident with roots in Philadelphia, I found common ground with the underdog Smarty Jones, who triumphed in the 2004 Derby despite his connections operating with limited resources. In 2005, I became an ardent supporter of Afleet Alex, a horse whose story involved charity work for childhood cancer through Alex’s Lemonade Stand.
To discover captivating human interest stories, be sure to check out social media from sources like America’s Best Racing and other racing platforms to forge your connection.
TRADITIONS
The Kentucky Derby has transformed from a mere sporting event into an integral part of American culture, complete with numerous traditions that enrich its legacy. Among these rituals is the celebrated garland of roses, presented to the winner, accompanied by the majestic Twin Spires that grace the Churchill Downs backdrop.
Other cherished traditions include the Kentucky Oaks, which showcases 3-year-old fillies the Friday before the Derby, the refreshing mint julep, the official drink of the event, and the heartfelt singing of “My Old Kentucky Home” during the ceremonial walk onto the racetrack. Celebrities often converge from across the nation and beyond to attend the race, and the decorative Kentucky Derby hat remains a central element of the event’s fashion.
IT’S A PARTY
The Kentucky Derby is undeniably known for its lively party atmosphere. The infield on Derby day typically attracts a wide variety of fans, including partiers, families, and avid gamblers. A staggering number of mint juleps are consumed throughout the day, as attendance figures from 2000 to 2019 fluctuated between 140,000 to 170,000 fans. Following a period of diminished attendance due to the pandemic, the Derby rebounded impressively, hosting over 156,000 fans in 2024.
While many flock to Louisville primarily for the celebration – which includes countless parties throughout the week leading up to Derby day – the experience encompasses much more than just food and drinks. Attendees often wander Churchill Downs in awe, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere, while gamblers are intensely focused on their programs, and social butterflies connect with others, making it an event that caters to diverse interests.
This festive spirit transcends Churchill Downs, with racetracks across the country welcoming fans on Derby day, even in the absence of live racing. Individuals often host Derby-themed gatherings at home, seamlessly accessing recipes for food and drink, ordering hats and attire online, and even placing bets without leaving their living rooms. For those interested in throwing a memorable party, you can find a comprehensive guide for hosting an unforgettable Kentucky Derby gathering at this link.
WANNA BET?!
Placing a bet on the Kentucky Derby has never been easier. You can visit your local racetrack on the big day or opt to wager from the comfort of your home using advance-deposit-wagering platforms. Setting up an account for an “ADW” requires some initial effort, so don’t delay if you wish to engage in betting during Kentucky Derby day. At the onset of the pandemic in 2020, America’s Best Racing’s Dan Tordjman crafted a helpful guide to assist newcomers in starting online betting.
Additionally, America’s Best Racing has compiled a list of critical Dos and Don’ts for online betting. Ensure you bookmark our Cheat Sheet for comprehensive insights on all contenders. We also plan to feature which runners might thrive if it rains on Derby day, along with helpful tools such as ABR’s Gambling Calculator to aid in your betting strategy.
If you find yourself intrigued by this story, you likely seek straightforward information, and we can assist you with the basics of betting. Below is a brief overview:
The Basics
Win bet – A wager on a horse to finish first.
Place bet – A wager on a horse to finish first or second.
Show bet – A wager on a horse to finish in the money; first, second, or third.
In the money – Refers to a horse that finishes first, second, or third.
Across the board – A bet on a horse to win, place, and show, effectively three separate bets.
Morning line – Indicates the odds predicted by a track handicapper for a horse to win the race upon its start.
Did you know? The Kentucky Derby experienced its highest amount wagered on record in 2019, totaling $250,900,257 across all races at Churchill Downs.
QUALIFYING FOR THE KENTUCKY DERBY
Historically, eligibility for the Kentucky Derby was determined by purse earnings in specific stakes races. However, in 2013, Churchill Downs implemented a new points-based qualification system, which has since evolved.
Prep Season qualifying races award points to the top-five finishers on scales of 10-5-3-2-1 or 20-10-6-4-2, with the exceptions since the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile offers a 30-15-9-6-3 scale to reflect its significance. The 20-10-6-4-2 scale Prep Season races commence in mid-January 2025.
The Championship Series qualifiers commence February 15 with the Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds, distributing points on two scales: 50-25-15-10-5 for top five finishers or a higher 100-50-25-15-10 for select crucial races leading up to Derby day. One notable exception, the Stonestreet Lexington Stakes at Keeneland, gives points on a 20-8-6-4-2 scale.
Each 3-year-old earns points in these qualifying races, and the top 20 earners among Triple Crown nominees secure their starting spot at the gate for the first Saturday in May.
FIVE FUN FACTS ABOUT THE KENTUCKY DERBY
- Five horses have returned more than $100 for a $2 win bet: Donerail (1913) with $184.90, Rich Strike (2022) at $163.60, Country House (2019) at $132.40, Mine That Bird (2009) at $103.20, and Giacomo (2005) at $102.60.
- The swiftest record for the Derby was achieved by Secretariat in 1973, completing the 1 ¼-mile distance in an astonishing 1:59.40.
- Kentucky lays claim to 116 Derby winners. Florida ranks next with six, but 15 different states, along with England and Canada, have produced at least one winning horse.
- Nineteen Derby winners had names starting with the letter S, the most prevalent initial. The only letters absent from this achievement are Q and X.
- Although the Derby is presently limited to 20 runners, the largest field in history was experienced in 1974, with 23 competitors participating in the 100th running.
MORE ABOUT THE HORSES
Racehorses exhibit a diverse range of sizes (ranging from 900 to 1,400 pounds) and colors, including Bay, Black, Chestnut, Dark Bay or Brown, and Gray or Roan, with an increasing number of White Thoroughbreds appearing recently.
Many horses are distinguished by unique markings, such as a white blaze or star on their foreheads, or varying white legs and feet.
Upon birth, a young horse is referred to as a foal. After being weaned from their mothers, they then become weanlings, followed by yearlings in their second calendar year of life, denoting the age commencing on January 1 following their birth.
January 1 serves as the universal birthday for all Thoroughbreds.
Every Thoroughbred racehorse must be registered according to The Jockey Club guidelines, with racing commencing during their 2-year-old seasons in the spring.
Did You Know? The predominant color of Kentucky Derby winners is Bay, with 57 victors, including last year’s champion Mystik Dan, closely trailed by Chestnut with 50 winners, including 2023’s Mage.
LIFE AFTER THE RACETRACK
A select group of male and female racehorses transition into breeding careers post-retirement. Only a fraction of male racehorses qualify as sires, with approximately 26,000 female Thoroughbreds bred in 2024. Fortunately, Thoroughbreds are known for their versatility, frequently shifting to a second career as OTTBs (off-track Thoroughbreds).
Thoroughbreds are intelligent, competitive creatures that, having spent considerable time at the racetrack, are accustomed to a variety of experiences and environments.
Following their racing careers, these horses can transition into disciplines like Dressage, Eventing, Show Jumping, and Polo. Each year, the Retired Racehorse Project hosts the Thoroughbred Makeover, designed to retrain ex-racehorses for diverse competitions.
OTTBs may become leisure horses or find loving homes, with some residing at places like Old Friends in Georgetown, Ky. or being adopted by equine enthusiasts.
Research has increasingly highlighted the value of racehorses as partners in therapy, such as in Equine-Assisted Therapy for veterans dealing with PTSD, or through organizations like Square Peg Foundation for students.
The Thoroughbred industry has taken significant steps to promote aftercare through the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, a nonprofit that accredits organizations focused on retraining and rehoming retired racehorses. Since its inception in 2012, the TAA has allocated over $31.9 million to accredited mission-driven organizations, successfully retraining, rehoming, or retiring approximately 16,500 Thoroughbreds.
Versatility and many find success in various disciplines after their racing careers. After retiring from the racetrack, some Thoroughbreds become trail horses, participate in show jumping, dressage, or eventing, while others may serve as companion animals.
Organizations such as the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) work tirelessly to facilitate the transition of retired racehorses into second careers, ensuring they receive the care, rehabilitation, and retraining they need. The TAA accredits facilities that provide aftercare services, confirming that they meet established standards of safety and care for these majestic animals.
Many retired racehorses are adopted by loving families who appreciate their unique personalities and capabilities, while others may find a new lease of life in second-chance programs specifically geared towards integrating them into different equestrian disciplines.
Emphasizing the importance of aftercare, prominent figures in the racing community advocate for responsible retirement plans for all racehorses. Initiatives have gained traction to promote awareness about the need for funding, proper veterinary care, and training resources for horses transitioning from racing to civilian life.
In addition, educational programs aimed at new owners focus on proper care, rehabilitation techniques, and recognizing the potential of Thoroughbreds outside of racing. This ensures that horses are not only taken care of but also cherished as companions and athletes in their new roles.
Thus, as the Kentucky Derby continues to uphold its rich traditions and cultural significance, it also underscores the importance of responsible horse ownership and the ongoing commitment to the welfare of its equine stars long after their time on the racetrack has concluded. Each retired horse represents a legacy of resilience and adaptability, embodying the enduring spirit of the sport.