The Kentucky Derby: A Legendary Race

The Kentucky Derby, also known as the “Run for the Roses,” is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. It has a long history dating back to its first race in 1875, and has become an iconic event that draws crowds from all over the globe.

Race Distance, Fastest Time, Winning Jockeys, Trainers, and Owners

The Kentucky Derby is a 1 1/4 mile (10 furlongs) race for three-year-old Thoroughbred horses. It is run on the first Saturday in May each year at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The fastest time ever recorded in the Kentucky Derby was 1:59.40, set by Secretariat in 1973. Secretariat also holds the record for the largest margin of victory in the Derby, winning by an incredible 8 lengths. Over the years, many jockeys, trainers, and owners have made their mark. Eddie Arcaro and Bill Hartack are tied for the most wins by a jockey, with 6 each. Ben Jones holds the record for the most wins by a trainer, with 7. Calumet Farm, owned by Warren Wright, holds the record for the most wins by an owner, with 8.

Kentucky Derby Triple Crown Winners & Purse Amount

Winning the Derby is a great achievement in itself, but winning all three races of the Triple Crown is considered the ultimate goal for any horse racing enthusiast. The Triple Crown consists of the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Only 13 horses in history have won the Triple Crown, with the most recent being Justify in 2018. The purse amount for the Derby is another interesting statistic.

Attendance and the Official Drink

The Kentucky Derby is a popular event that draws crowds from all over the world. In recent years, the average attendance has been over 150,000 people. One of the traditions associated with the Derby is the official drink, the mint julep. It is estimated that over 120,000 mint juleps are served at the Derby each year.

Conclusion

The Kentucky Derby is a legendary horse race that has captured the hearts and minds of people all over the world. With its rich history, fascinating facts, and impressive statistics, it is easy to see why the Derby is considered one of the greatest sporting events in the world. Whether you’re a die-hard horse racing fan or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and athleticism of these magnificent animals, the Kentucky Derby is an event that is not to be missed.

https://www.kentuckyderby.com/

The Jockey Club: https://www.jockeyclub.com/default.asp?section=Resources&area=10

BloodHorse: https://www.bloodhorse.com/

Triple Crown Productions: https://www.triplecrownproductions.com/

Karin Zabret karin zabret (@karinzabret) • Instagram photos and videos