As Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, gears up for the 150th Kentucky Derby Saturday, anticipation mounts for the renowned “Run for the Roses.” This milestone edition boasts a record-breaking $5 million purse, a $2 million increase from last year, with the victor set to claim a staggering $3.1 million. The race, which starts at 6:57 pm ET and will be broadcast on NBC starting at 2:30 pm ET, remains a paramount fixture in American sports, being the oldest continuous sporting event in the country.
This year, a lineup of 3-year-old thoroughbreds born in the Northern Hemisphere will compete on the 1.25-mile track. Among the frontrunners are Fierceness, coming off a notable victory at the Florida Derby with 5-2 odds, and Sierra Leone, listed at 3-1 odds. Both horses are natives of Kentucky and are eyed keenly by enthusiasts and analysts.
Despite the presence of strong contenders, the Kentucky Derby is notorious for its unpredictability. The last favorite to win was in 2018, and just last year, Rich Strike clinched victory with odds of 80-1, highlighting the event’s penchant for surprises. This characteristic unpredictability adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the race.
The Derby also marks the beginning of the coveted Triple Crown series, drawing attention not only to the competitors but also to the broader narrative of horse racing excellence. Preceding the main event, the Kentucky Oaks will showcase top 3-year-old fillies, adding to the weekend’s festivities and setting the stage for tomorrow’s historic showdown at Churchill Downs.