As most racing aficionados know, the Kentucky Derby has a longstanding love affair with hats and fascinators. From the Derby’s humble beginnings in 1875, the Run For The Roses has grown into a mega-fashion event where elaborate headwear takes center stage. Just how did these stylish accessories become so symbolic of the Kentucky Derby experience? Back in the day, hats were more than just a fashion … Continue reading The Evolution Of The Derby Hat
The Kentucky Derby is less than three weeks away and while plenty can (and will) happen between now and May 6th, here are three story lines already in play at Churchill Downs. THE PLETCHER FACTOR The Hall of Famer has Won the Kentucky Derby twice, first with SUPER SAVER in 2010 and then ALWAYS DREAMING in 2017. Pletcher may very well have the top two … Continue reading Some Derby Subplots
The Kentucky Derby was first held in 1875 and ranks as the longest continuously held major sporting event in the United States. This year will mark the 149th edition of the Run For The Roses, which had been held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs every year since 1946 before the COVID-19 pandemic forced the postponement of the race in 2020 until September 5th. The rich history surrounding … Continue reading Derby Tidbits’
As we have previously mentioned, the Kentucky Derby is a sporting event immersed in tradition and spirit(s). So what better way to watch the Run For The Roses than with a Mint Julep in hand? The Mint Julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1939, although its origins trace back to the first Derby Day in 1875. This iconic bourbon cocktail … Continue reading The Mint Julep
The Kentucky Derby is the most-watched horse race of the year in the United States. It is widely considered one of the most important sporting events in the country, having grown to become much more than just a horse race since ARISTIDES Won the first edition in 1875. The 149th running of the Kentucky Derby is Saturday, May 6th- the first Saturday in May. The … Continue reading Kentucky Derby 149
Horses under the care of trainer Bob Baffert are currently unable to earn qualifying points on the Road To The Kentucky Derby, and it seems there is a new regulation is in place for the 2023 edition. Last year, several promising Baffert-trained sophomores were transferred to other trainers (including Tim Yakteen) in early April, aiming for the final 100-point prep races that would gain entry … Continue reading Baffert Derby Saga
Churchill Downs Incorporated announced on Monday that Churchill Downs Racetrack has renewed its relationship Woodford Reserve Kentucky Bourbon. The agreement ensures that Woodford Reserve will be the presenting sponsor of the Kentucky Derby through 2027. Woodford Reserve has been the Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby since 1999 and the presenting sponsor for the past four years. “We are thrilled to welcome back Woodford Reserve … Continue reading Kentucky Derby & Bourbon
As we previously wrote, it was in 2013 that the Kentucky Derby prep races were officially bundled under the banner of The Road To The Kentucky Derby. Otherwise referred to (fondly) as the Derby Trail. The introduction of the prep series has led to a much easier guideline for both horsemen and horse racing fans. The Derby Trail also allows for more focused promotion of hopefuls targeting … Continue reading Prep Season Schedule
In our previous column we wrote about Kentucky Derby Prep races and the point system used to gain entry in order to run on the first Saturday in May. Well, we forgot to mention the minor adjustments that were made to said system last September. Churchill Downs Racetrack officials made slight modifications to the Road to the Kentucky Derby. Points will now be awarded to … Continue reading Prep Amendments
As the two-year-old racing season concludes, the road to the 2023 Kentucky Derby is open and traffic will get a bit heavier as the Prep Races begin in earnest. If you’re new to horse racing you might have questions about how all of this works. Well wonder no more, the Daily Racing Blog is here to help. Here is a basic overview about qualifying for the Run for the Roses. … Continue reading 2023 Kentucky Derby (Never Too Early)
