Kentucky Derby News

Justify’s breeders score major victory at Royal Ascot

Jun 24, 2018

Breeding Triple Crown winner Justify would have been enough to make it a stellar year for John Gunther and his daughter Tanya, who plans the matings for their mares. But the proprietors of Glennwood Farm just achieved another milestone. Only 10 days after…

Speculating upon Justify’s possible path to the Breeders’ Cup

Jun 20, 2018

Justify capped a Triple Crown sweep with a 1 ¾-length victory in the Belmont Stakes, winning the 1 ½-mile event over a fast track after taking the Kentucky Derby and Preakness in the slop, and connections have an investment to protect after such an historical…

Churchill Downs Unveils Kentucky Derby 145 Logo

Jun 14, 2018

LOUISVILLE, KY (Thursday, June 14, 2018) – Churchill Downs Racetrack today unveiled the official Kentucky Derby 145 logo. Featuring racing Thoroughbreds, the logo brings to life the thrill of the most exciting two minutes in sports. The 145th running of the…

Justify’s ‘triple crown’ of virtues

Jun 10, 2018

As we celebrate Justify’s Triple Crown, it’s worth emphasizing the unprecedented manner of his sweep of the Kentucky Derby (G1), Preakness (G1), and Belmont S. (G1).Unlike the 12 previous Triple Crown winners, who built upon the solid foundation of a campaign…

Gronkowski’s Belmont effort boosts European Road to Kentucky Derby; Mendelssohn eyes Dwyer

Jun 10, 2018

When Gronkowski beat all but unbeaten Triple Crown winner Justify in the Belmont S. (G1), his bold runner-up effort was a boost to the inaugural European Road to the Kentucky Derby. Originally based in England with trainer Jeremy Noseda, Gronkowski topped…

Justify wires Belmont Stakes 150 to become 13th Triple Crown champion

Jun 9, 2018

As if becoming only the 13th Triple Crown winner in racing history is not exclusive enough, JUSTIFY's Belmont Stakes (G1) win on June 9 at Belmont Park inducted him into even more exclusive company.In sweeping the Kentucky Derby (G1), Preakness Stakes (G1)…

Belmont Stakes 150 Preview

Jun 9, 2018

Justify has answered every question in a whirlwind 4-month, 5-race career, and now the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner faces the Test of the Champion.

2018 Belmont Stakes Study Guide

Jun 7, 2018

The 150th running of the Belmont Stakes (G1) is finally here and all eyes will be on Justify as he seeks to complete a Triple Crown sweep.

Making Money with Justify in the Belmont Stakes

Jun 6, 2018

Aiming to become just the second unbeaten Triple Crown winner in history following Seattle Slew, at odds-on favorite value, here is how to best churn out a score on the short-priced favorite, Justify, in the Belmont Stakes.

Justify draws the rail and installed as 4-5 favorite in Belmont Stakes 150

Jun 5, 2018

150TH BELMONT STAKES PP HORSE TRAINER JOCKEY ML ODDS 1 Justify Bob Baffert Mike Smith 4-5 2 Free Drop Billy Dale Romans Robby…

Two longshots to consider betting in the Belmont Stakes

Jun 5, 2018

From a betting standpoint, chewing on 2-5 odds never tastes as good as collecting on a double-digit win mutuel. I will highlight the chances of a pair of long shot contenders I think have a legitimate chance on Saturday.

Justify compares to these three Triple Crown winners

Jun 5, 2018

You could mention color, running style, historical reputation, or any number of points in trying to equate a Triple Crown candidate, like Justify, with any of the previous 12 winners of the series and come up woefully short of the mark. What is possible is finding some commonalities with Justify and some of the current members of the exclusive group he looks to join Saturday in the Belmont Stakes.

Mr. Fitz’s honor roll: from Triple Crown winners Gallant Fox and Omaha to 1950s stars Nashua and Bold Ruler

Jun 4, 2018

Continued from the biographical introduction in Part 1, “They called him Mr. Fitz: remembering Hall of Famer Sunny Jim Fitzsimmons” Mr. Fitz’s horsemanship carried him through those lean times, along with a reputation for impeccable honesty and integrity.…

They called him Mr. Fitz: remembering Hall of Famer Sunny Jim Fitzsimmons

Jun 1, 2018

Farm boy has a fondness for horses, tries his hand at being a jockey until he gets too big, goes on to become a Hall of Fame trainer with a record number of wins in Triple Crown races.Bob Baffert? No, James E. “Sunny Jim” Fitzsimmons, the only horseman to…

Experience Justify's pedigree with this video tour of his greatest ancestors

May 31, 2018

As unbeaten Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness (G1) winner Justify aims for an historic Triple Crown sweep in the June 9 Belmont S. (G1), thoughts turn to his forebears who made history themselves. If the typical pedigree write-up makes your eyes glaze over,…

What does horse racing have in common with golf, tennis, baseball and cycling?

May 31, 2018

Why, a Triple Crown of course. Justify is seeking to give trainer Bob Baffert a second Triple Crown sweep in just three years, and this after a 37-year drought between Affirmed’s successful bid in 1978 and American Pharoah’s 2015 triumph. Winning the…

Justify Returns to the Track to Jog One Mile; Bravazo Breezes for Belmont Stakes

May 31, 2018

Undefeated Kentucky Derby (Grade I) and Preakness Stakes (GI) winner Justify returned to the Churchill Downs racetrack Thursday morning for a one-mile jog following his half-mile breeze in :46.80 Tuesday as he continued training for the 1 ½-mile Belmont…

Comparing the Triple Crown trails of Justify and American Pharoah

May 31, 2018

When Justify crossed the wire first in the Preakness (G1), setting up an opportunity for a Triple Crown in the Belmont Stakes (G1), it was inevitable that comparisons would be drawn between he and American Pharoah, who gloriously ended a 37-year drought when claiming the Crown in 2015.

Hofburg could 'Tap' into a Belmont Stakes victory over Justify

May 30, 2018

Can Woody Stephens and Tapit provide clues on Hofburg and Justify in the Belmont Stakes?

What kind of horse stops a Triple Crown bid?

May 28, 2018

We all know about the 12 colts that entered the Belmont Stakes (G1) with a chance at a Triple Crown sweep that succeeded. Will Justify be "Lucky 13" or will he join a list that currently numbers 20 of those that missed reaching the mountaintop? A different…

Kentucky Derby 2018 runners – Where are they now?

May 27, 2018

With all the attention currently focused on Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness Stakes (G1) winner Justify’s bid for Triple Crown glory in the June 9 Belmont Stakes (G1), it’s easy to forget there were 19 other hopefuls who took part in the famed Run for the…

Justify Gallops 1 1/2 Miles Saturday; Baffert to Return Monday

May 26, 2018

Kentucky Derby (Grade I) and Preakness (GI) winner Justify galloped 1 ½ miles Saturday morning at Churchill Downs with Humberto Gomez in the saddle as the undefeated colt continued preparing for the June 9 Belmont Stakes (GI). “I couldn’t be happier…

Kentucky Derby runners return for another shot at Justify in Belmont Stakes

May 25, 2018

With the field for the 150th Belmont Stakes (G1) set, a number of horses who competed in the Kentucky Derby (G1) on May 5 at Churchill Downs will be returning for the June 9 contest at Belmont Park. Of course, the most prominent of the Kentucky Derby…

Trainer Bob Baffert Plans to Enjoy Justify's Triple Crown Try

May 25, 2018

"Here" is days out from the Belmont Stakes with a Kentucky Derby-Preakness Stakes winner going for the Triple Crown. "It" is all the hoopla that surrounds trying to achieve one of the most difficult tasks in horse racing, if not all of sports.

Justify's jockey Mike Smith: Hall of Fame rider to the all-time greats

May 25, 2018

Hall of Famer. All-time leading jockey in Breeders’ Cup history. Two-time Eclipse Award champion and Kentucky Derby (G1) winner. Regular rider of Hall of Famers from Azeri to Zenyatta. “Big Money Mike.” As that rapid-fire summary suggests, jockey Mike…

Justify would be a fitting Triple Crown winner

May 24, 2018

Grace under pressure. It’s how Ernest Hemmingway defined courage and athletes must have the intestinal fortitude as well as talent to maintain their composure under the intense pressure of competition.

Justify shines through the fog for hard-fought win in Preakness Stakes 143

May 19, 2018

It would be hard to imagine a more dismal Triple Crown season. Unexpectedly, the Kentucky Derby (G1) turned into a sodden, sloppy affair, watched by tens of thousands of soaked spectators.Preakness Week was, if possible, even worse. The rain came all week,…

Justify wins the 143rd Preakness Stakes

May 19, 2018

Justify continued his quest for Triple Crown glory on Saturday at Pimlico, securing the 143rd running of the Preakness Stakes (G1) under jockey Mike Smith in a close finish with Bravazo, Tenfold and Good Magic. A dense, creeping fog engulfed the track…

Karma says either Lone Sailor or Tenfold will win the 2018 Preakness on Armed Forces Day

May 19, 2018

Tenfold photo courtesy of Jon Kral/Maryland Jockey ClubToday is Saturday, May 19, 2018, Armed Forces Day. It is also Preakness Stakes 143 Day. The Preakness takes place at Pimlico in Baltimore, Maryland, about an hour north from the United Stakes Naval Academy in…

Red Ruby sparkles amid slop in Black-Eyed Susan

May 18, 2018

A prominent contender on the Kentucky Oaks (G1) trail before missing her final prep, Red Ruby returned triumphant in Friday’s $250,000 Black-Eyed Susan (G2) at Pimlico. The sloppy conditions brought out the best in the daughter of Hall of Famer Tiznow, who…

Will the 2018 Preakness turn out to be a virtual replay of the Kentucky Derby?

May 17, 2018

That’s the question fans are asking as unbeaten Kentucky Derby (G1) star Justify looms as the heavy 1-2 favorite in the Preakness (G1). While every Preakness serves as a referendum on the Derby winner, Saturday’s 143rd renewal has more reason than most…

The best longshot to bet in the Preakness

May 17, 2018

With Kentucky Derby (G1) winner Justify an odds-on favorite (justifiably) for Saturday's Preakness (G1), contemplating who the best longshot to play in the middle jewel of the Triple Crown seems an odd task on the surface. Keep in mind, though, there…

Kentucky Derby Alumni in the Preakness

May 15, 2018

History favors Kentucky Derby runners in the Preakness Stakes. The winner typically looms large and Justify will be an overwhelming favorite when the field lines up for Saturday’s 143rd Preakness at Pimlico. Thirty-one of the last 35 Preakness winners…

5 Fast Facts: Preakness Stakes

May 15, 2018

1. The Preakness, and the Triple Crown in general, has been the scene of famous rivalries. One of the more interesting if lesser known ones involved Hill Prince and Middleground, who met in the 1950 Preakness for the fourth time in less than a month.…

Tales from the Crib: Quip

May 11, 2018

Fresh off a brilliant Kentucky Derby (G1) as co-owners of victorious Justify and third-placer Audible, Kenny Troutt’s WinStar Farm marches on to Pimlico with a similarly strong representation for the May 19 Preakness Stakes (G1). WinStar homebred Quip will…

Kentucky Derby weekend runners looking ahead to Breeders' Cup

May 9, 2018

The plethora of graded stakes at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby weekend took on added importance this year as it offered an opportunity to get test runs over courses that will be presented during the 2018 Breeders' Cup World Championships on Nov. 2-3.

Early look at potential challengers to Kentucky Derby winner Justify in Preakness

May 7, 2018

Although much can change in the build-up to the May 19 Preakness (G1), not too many are eager to confront Kentucky Derby (G1) star Justify in the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.

Kentucky Derby Update for Sunday, May 6, 2018

May 6, 2018

NEXT STOP PIMLICO FOR UNBEATEN DERBY HERO JUSTIFY JUSTIFY (1st)/SOLOMINI (10th) – The 144th Kentucky Derby winner was full of energy this morning and Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert has every intention of heading to Baltimore for the May 19 Preakness Stakes…

Justify Wins the 144th Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve in Front of Rain-Soaked Crowd

May 6, 2018

Justify Wins the 144th Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve in Front of Rain-Soaked CrowdHighest All-Sources Wagering on Kentucky Derby Day program and Kentucky Derby race157,813 Endure Wettest Kentucky DerbyLOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 5, 2018) – Fans braved…

Kentucky Derby Post-Race News Conference Transcript

May 5, 2018

JOHN ASHER: Ladies and gentlemen, we will go through the list at the podium. Mike Smith, again, two‑time Kentucky Derby winner. (Applause) Bob Baffert, the Kentucky Derby‑winning trainer. (Applause) I'm going to go to Elliott and make sure I get everybody…

JUSTIFY DELIVERS AS KENTUCKY DERBY FAVORITE BEFORE CROWD OF 157,813

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – WinStar Farm, China Horse Club, Starlight Racing and Head of Plains Partners’ favored Justify took command at the half-mile pole and roared away to a 2 ½-length victory over Good Magic under the lights at Churchill…

TRAINER QUOTES FROM THE 144TH RUNNING OF THE KENTUCKY DERBY

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018): Bob Baffert, trainer of Justify (1st), Solomini (10th) – “We saw something really great. That’s greatness right there. When he won his second race we were in (American) Pharoah territory.” On Solomini: “I knew…

RIDER QUOTES FROM THE 144TH RUNNING OF THE KENTUCKY DERBY

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018): Mike Smith, rider of Justify (1st) – “Going into the race the main concern was just getting him out of the gate. This horse is so talented. I keep using the term ‘above average’ because he has a mind to him as well.…

YOSHIDA RETURNS IN STYLE; WINS OLD FORESTER TURF CLASSIC

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – China Horse Club, WinStar Farm and Head of Plains Partners’ Yoshida (JPN) returned to the races from a seven-month layoff to turn back favored Beach Patrol by three-quarters of a length to win the 32nd running of the…

Justify lives up to favoritism in Kentucky Derby 144

May 5, 2018

Justify prevailed over both champion Good Magic and the sloppy main track at Churchill Downs on Saturday when scoring in the 2018 Kentucky Derby (G1) for trainer Bob Baffert. Jockey Mike Smith guided the chestnut son of Scat Daddy in the 1 1/4-mile affair,…

39-1 FUNNY DUCK SPLASHES TO VICTORY IN PAT DAY MILE

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – On a rainy afternoon suitable for ducks, Calumet Farm’s Funny Duck romped to a 4 ¾-length victory over New York Central in the 94th running of the $300,000 Pat Day Mile Presented by LG&E and KU (Grade III) for 3-year-olds. Trained…

MARAUD ROLLS TO VICTORY IN AMERICAN TURF

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – Treadway Racing Stable’s Maraud surged to the lead at mid-stretch en route to a 1 ½-length victory in the 27th running of the $300,000 American Turf Presented by Ram Trucks (Grade II) for 3-year-olds. Trained by…

LIMOUSINE LIBERAL REPEATS IN CHURCHILL DOWNS

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – Katherine Ball’s homebred Limousine Liberal surged to the front in deep stretch to successfully defend his title by a head over Warrior’s Club in winning the 84th running of the $500,000 Churchill Downs Presented by…

PROCTOR’S LEDGE WINS LONGINES CHURCHILL DISTAFF TURF MILE

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – Patricia Moseley’s homebred Proctor’s Ledge collared On Leave at the sixteenth pole and pulled away to a half-length victory in the 33rd running of the $300,000 Longines Churchill Distaff Turf Mile (Grade II) for fillies…

AMERICAN GAL WINS HUMANA DISTAFF

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – Kaleem Shah’s American Gal moved past Finley’sluckycharm on the turn and drew clear to win the 32nd running of the $300,000 Humana Distaff (Grade I) for fillies and mares by two lengths over Ivy Bell in the first of…

ASMUSSEN GETS 8,000th CAREER VICTORY

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) -- Trainer Steve Asmussen became the second North American trainer to record 8,000 victories when L and N Racing’s Lookin At Lee took the third race on Saturday’s Kentucky Derby Day card. Asmussen trails only Dale…

COX CELEBRATES HOMETOWN OAKS VICTORY WITH MONOMOY GIRL

May 5, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – Trainer Brad Cox had the blanket of lilies proudly displayed outside his barn and was a popular person among media and well-wishers Saturday morning, less than 12 hours after winning the biggest race of his career with…

Kentucky Oaks Follow Up: Cox Celebrates Hometown Oaks Victory With Monomoy Girl

May 5, 2018

COX CELEBRATES HOMETOWN OAKS VICTORY WITH MONOMOY GIRL LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, May 5, 2018) – Trainer Brad Cox had the blanket of lilies proudly displayed outside his barn and was a popular person among media and well-wishers Saturday morning, less than…

Timeline of Events: Kentucky Derby Day

May 5, 2018

Timeline of Events: Kentucky Derby Day (PDF)

The 144th Running of the Longines Kentucky Oaks Attracts 113,510 Fans as Monomoy Girl Claims the Lillies

May 4, 2018

The 144th Running of the Longines Kentucky Oaks Attracts 113,510 Fans as Monomoy Girl Claims the Lillies Kentucky Oaks sets All-time Wagering Record LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 4, 2018) – The fifth-highest crowd of 113,510 fans watched Monomoy Girl capture the…

Kentucky Derby Advance Wagering Odds and Double Will Pays

May 4, 2018

Kentucky Derby Advance Wagering Odds and Double Will Pays (PDF)

Kentucky Oaks Post-Race News Conference Transcript

May 4, 2018

JOHN ASHER: Good evening, everyone. And welcome to the press conference following the 144th running of the Longines Kentucky Oaks. And the winner of the Kentucky Oaks, Monomoy Girl! (Applause.) I will start down here on the rail with the jockey who was…

MONOMOY GIRLS OUTDUELS WONDER GADOT TO WIN 144TH LONGINES KENTUCKY OAKS BEFORE 113,510

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018) – Michael Dubb, Monomoy Stables, The Elkstone Group and Bethlehem Stables’ Monomoy Girl outdueled Wonder Gadot by a half-length after a stretch-long duel to win the 144th running of the $1 million Longines Kentucky Oaks…

TRAINER QUOTES FROM THE 144TH RUNNING OF THE LONGINES KENTUCKY OAKS

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018): Brad Cox, trainer of Monomoy Girl (1st), Sassy Sienna (6th) and Kelly’s Humor (8th) –“It was unbelievable. It worked out just the way we planned. That was the trip we were hoping for. Florent (Geroux) did a great job…

JOCKEY QUOTES FROM THE 144TH RUNNING OF THE LONGINES KENTUCKY OAKS

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018): Florent Geroux, rider of Monomoy Girl (1st) – “This is an unbelievable feeling. The filly was sharp early and I just hustled her out of the gate to get a good position. From there I was pretty confident, but when I…

TOINETTE SURGES LATE TO DEFEAT RUSHING FALL IN EDGEWOOD

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018) – Ken Baca, Lisa and Nicholas Hawkins and Lynne and Joseph Hudson’s Toinette caught the previously undefeated Rushing Fall just before the wire to win the 34th running of the $200,000 Edgewood presented by Forcht Bank (Grade…

Monomoy Girl wins Kentucky Oaks 144

May 4, 2018

Monomoy Girl captured the 2018 Kentucky Oaks (G1) on Friday at Churchill Downs with jockey Florent Geroux aboard. Trained by Brad Cox, the chestnut daughter of Tapizar ran 1 1/8 miles in 1:49.13 over the fast main track as the 5-2 second choice and survived…

BACKYARD HEAVEN WINS ALYSHEBA; ALWAYS DREAMING FINISHES FIFTH

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018) – Ken and Sarah Ramsey’s Backyard Heaven disposed of 2017 Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming on the far turn and drew off to win the 15th running of the $400,000 Alysheba presented by Sentient Jet (Grade II) for 3-year-olds…

WILL CALL RALLIES TO WIN TWIN SPIRES TURF SPRINT

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018) – Klein Racing’s Will Call emerged from a tight pack in deep stretch to win the 24th running of the $200,000 Twin Spires Turf Sprint Presented by TwinSpires.com (Grade III) by 1 ¼ lengths over Kid Perfect.Trained by Brad Cox and…

SALTY TAKES LA TROIENNE AS CHAMPION ABEL TASMAN RUNS FOURTH

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018) – Gary Barber Baccari Racing Stable and Chester Prince’s Salty wore down a game, front-running Farrell to win the 33rd running of the $350,000 La Troienne presented by TwinSpires.com (Grade I) for fillies and mares by 1…

FAVORED MIA MISCHIEF WINS EIGHT BELLES

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018) – William and Corinne Heligbrodt, Heider Family Stables and Madaket Stables’ Mia Mischief fought off an early test from Amy’s Challenge and then held off a late bid from Talk Veuve to Me by 1 ¾ lengths to win the 63rd running…

QUIET, ROUTINE MORNING FOR DERBY HOPEFULS ON DERBY EVE

May 4, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, May 4, 2018) – On a warm and breezy Friday morning at Churchill Downs all entrants for Saturday’s 144th running of the $2,192,000 Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I) stretched their legs. Twenty of the 21 entrants…

Churchill Downs Stakes Recap: Weiland Springs Upset in Kentucky Juvenile as Favorite in Opening Verse

May 3, 2018

WEILAND SPRINGS UPSET IN KENTUCKY JUVENILE; MR CUB DELIVERS AS FAVORITE IN OPENING VERSE LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Thursday, May 3, 2018) – John Ennis’ Weiland outgamed Myhotrodlincoln by a head to win the 25th running of the $100,000 Kentucky Juvenile for 2-year-olds…

Pedigree fun facts for 2018 Kentucky Derby

May 3, 2018

One of the most fascinating things about pedigrees is discovering the relationships between today’s horses and top performers of the past. Whether bred in the purple or more of a blue-collar baby, the contenders for Saturday’s 144th running of the Kentucky…

KELLY CLARKSON, DALE EARNHARDT JR., CHARLES BARKLEY & SHAQ TO PICK KENTUCKY DERBY WINNERS ON NBC’S DERBY COVERAGE THIS SAT., MAY 5, AT 2:30 PM ET

May 3, 2018

TODAY Show & Tonight Show to Feature Kentucky Derby Segments as NBCUniversal Surrounds Derby Day STAMFORD, Conn. – May 3, 2018 – NBC Sports Group celebrates the 144th Kentucky Derby with 14 hours of Kentucky Derby Week coverage highlighted by a record…

A beginner’s guide to betting

May 3, 2018

If you’re into numbers and attempting to decipher whose speed, pace and class figures indicate a winner…this guide is not for you. Nope, this is for the 99.9 percent of the population who bet three, maybe four, times a year on the three Triple Crown races…

Mendelssohn Makes Initial Churchill Downs Appearance; Midnight Bisou Blows Out Through Stretch for Oaks

May 3, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Thursday, May 3, 2018) – In possibly the most anticipated pre-Derby entrance at Churchill Downs since Arazi in 1992, runaway UAE Derby (GII) winner Mendelssohn emerged from quarantine Thursday morning to get his first feel of the track beneath…

The best longshot to bet in the Kentucky Derby

May 3, 2018

The last decade or so has been a relatively lean time for true longshots scoring upset victories in the Kentucky Derby. Since 2006, only three winners have been sent away at odds of 10-1 or higher: Mine That Bird (50-1), Animal Kingdom (20-1), and I'll…

Mendelssohn rates as strongest international threat for Kentucky Derby glory

May 3, 2018

If no horse based outside of the Western Hemisphere has ever won the Kentucky Derby (G1), it’s equally true that none has brought the credentials of Mendelssohn. Between his pedigree, as a Scat Daddy half-brother to four-time U.S. champion Beholder…

A fun group bet for the Kentucky Derby

May 2, 2018

Give the Show Parlay a try I’ve been betting horses a long time but when it comes to spending an afternoon at a Kentucky Derby party or even the track with my wife and casual racing friends, any in-depth analysis or multi-race betting strategies can go…

Monomoy Girl headlines Kentucky Oaks 144

May 2, 2018

A 5 1/2-length wire job in the Ashland Stakes (G1) at Keeneland on April 7 helped propel Monomoy Girl into 2-1 favoritism when the post positions were drawn Monday for the $1 million Kentucky Oaks (G1) on Friday, May 4, at Churchill Downs. The Brad Cox-trained…

TAA to Receive Donation from Audible Inc. on Derby Day

May 2, 2018

May 2, 2018 (Louisville, KY): Audible Inc., the world’s largest seller and producer of downloadable audiobooks and other spoken-word entertainment, will donate $25,000 to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) May 5 as a continuation of Audible Inc.’s involvement…

BREEDERS’ CUP LAUNCHES OFFICIAL SWEEPSTAKES AHEAD OF KENTUCKY DERBY

May 2, 2018

The Road to Churchill: Breeders’ Cup Kentucky Derby Sweepstakes to offer VIP experience at 2018 World Championships

DERBY AND OAKS HORSES ENJOY ROUTINE MORNING; MENDELSSOHN EXPECTED ON TRACK THURSDAY

May 2, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Wednesday, May 2, 2018) – All entrants but one for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks were on the track at Churchill Downs on a balmy Wednesday morning in Kentucky.The one is UAE Derby (Grade II) winner Mendelssohn, who is expected to clear…

5 Fast Facts: Kentucky Derby

May 2, 2018

1. The Kentucky Derby was first run on Monday, May 17, 1875, the first ever day of racing at the track that would become known as Churchill Downs. The Derby, then run at 1 1/2 miles, was the second of four races on the program. Interestingly, another…

Nationally Renowned Chefs Featured At Ninth Annual Taste Of Derby

May 2, 2018

Includes James Beard Award and Top Chef Winners to Kick Off Derby Weekend with Flavors from Across the Nation LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 2, 2018 – The ninth annual Taste of Derby presented by Angry Orchard will kick off the 144th Derby weekend with delicious…

Kentucky Derby Undercard Stakes Advances

May 1, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Tuesday, May 1, 2018) – European invader Deauville (IRE), trained by Aidan O’Brien, tops a field of 10 for Saturday’s $500,000 Old Forester Turf Classic (Grade I), one of seven graded stakes on the 14-race program that is highlighted by the…

2018 Derby Contender Merchandise Available For Purchase

May 1, 2018

For First Time, Derby Fans Can Support Their Derby Pick With Officially Licensed Merchandise LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Tuesday, May 1, 2018) –Churchill Downs today announced the Kentucky Derby Contenders Collection, a new line of officially licensed merchandise that…

Guess the 2018 Kentucky Derby contenders from their baby pictures

May 1, 2018

Twenty aspiring three-year-olds await their date with destiny in Saturday’s 144th running of the Kentucky Derby (G1). Making it to America’s iconic race, the “greatest two minutes in sports,” is the culmination of a journey that began in the hopes and dreams…

“Thurby” Celebrates Kentucky Bourbon, Culture And Racing For Fifth Year

May 1, 2018

Features Live Music, Kentucky Food & Drink and a 2018 Derby Box Giveaway LOUISVILLE, KY (Tuesday, May 1, 2018) – The fifth annual Thurby presented by Old Forester® will kick off Derby weekend on Thursday with its annual celebration of Kentucky and the local…

Kentucky Derby Update for Tuesday, May 1, 2018

May 1, 2018

JUSTIFY 3-1 MORNING-LINE DERBY FAVORITE, MAKES INITIAL CHURCHILL DOWNS APPEARANCE LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Tuesday, May 1, 2018) – China Horse Club International, Head of Plains Partners, Starlight Racing and WinStar Farm’s undefeated Justify, who was made the 3-1…

Quotes From The 144th Kentucky Derby Draw

May 1, 2018

QUOTES FROM THE 144th KENTUCKY DERBY DRAWJASON SERVIS (FIRENZE FIRE, Post Position 1, 50-1) – “I think it’s a lot better than 19 or 20, really. I’d rather be inside. I’m OK with it.”DALE ROMANS (FREE DROP BILLY, Post Position 2, 30-1); PROMISES FULFILLED Post…

Undefeated Justify 3-1 Morning Line Favorite For Kentucky Derby Presented By Woodford Reserve

May 1, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Tuesday, May 1, 2018) – China Horse Club International, Heads of Plains Partners, Starlight Racing and WinStar Farm’s undefeated Justify has been established as the 3-1 morning-line favorite in a field of 20 3-year-olds and one also eligible entered…

Tales from the Crib: Combatant

Apr 30, 2018

As if we needed more reason to mourn the loss of internationally renowned sire Scat Daddy in 2015, at the young age of 11, the late Coolmore stallion is responsible for four Kentucky Derby (G1) contenders. Two fittingly have Coolmore connections. Mendelssohn is…

Churchill Downs Stakes Advances: Kentucky Oaks Undercard Stakes

Apr 30, 2018

In what is believed to be a Churchill Downs first, the winners from the previous year’s Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks will be returning to run under the Twin Spires a year later on Derby Weekend.

NBC's Record 5-Hour Kentucky Derby Broadcast This Sat., May 5, Live At 2:30 PM ET, Highlights Derby Week Coverage

Apr 30, 2018

NBC & NBCSN Present Three Days of Coverage, Including Saturday’s Live “Run for the Roses” 15 Commentators to Contribute to Live Telecasts, Beginning This Thursday, May 3 at 4 p.m. ET on NBCSN Derby Coverage Features New Backstretch Aerial Camera…

Kentucky Derby Update for Monday, April 30, 2018

Apr 30, 2018

Combatant Works Toward Derby 144, Mendelssohn due To Arrive Monday Afternoon; Monomoy Girl 2-1 Morning Line Favorite For Kentucky OaksLOUISVILLE, Ky. (Monday, April 30, 2018) – Winchell Thoroughbreds and Willis Horton Racing’s Combatant completed his major…

Monomoy Girl, Midnight Bisou Morning-Line Favorites For Friday's $1 Million Longines Kentucky Oaks

Apr 30, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Monday, April 30, 2018) – Monomoy Girl and Midnight Bisou, the two dominant 3-year-old fillies in the country, will clash for the first time Friday as they head a field of 14 entered Monday for the 144th running of the $1 million Longines…

Tales from the Crib: Lone Sailor

Apr 30, 2018

Looking at a set of Kentucky Derby past performances, it’s easy to find that John D. Gunther bred a pair of contenders in Justify and Vino Rosso, and that WinStar Farm likewise appears as the breeder of two more in Bolt d’Oro and Noble Indy (in addition to…

Tales from the Crib: Free Drop Billy

Apr 30, 2018

Free Drop Billy will try for better luck in the Kentucky Derby (G1) than sire Union Rags had in the 2012 running, where he was too far back early after a troubled start and closed belatedly for seventh. But that only scratches the surface of Free Drop Billy’s Derby…

Tales from the Crib: Instilled Regard

Apr 29, 2018

Kentucky Derby (G1) contender Instilled Regard was bred by KatieRich Farms within its first decade of operation in the Bluegrass, but as a grandson of incoming Hall of Famer Heavenly Prize, his pedigree is old-school. Larry and Karen Doyle’s nom de course,…

News Release: Churchill Downs Releases Derby, Oaks, Equine Security Protocols; Re-Emphasizes Ongoing Safety & Integrity Measures

Apr 29, 2018

Churchill Downs Racetrack today re-emphasized its annual enhanced security measures for horses competing in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (Grade I) and ongoing safety and integrity measures included in its “Safety from Start to Finish”…

Kentucky Derby Update for Sunday, April 29, 2018

Apr 29, 2018

Juddmonte Farms’ Hofburg tuned up for Kentucky Derby 144 by working a half-mile in company in :48.20 at Churchill Downs on a cool Sunday morning. With exercise rider Penny Gardiner up for trainer Bill Mott, Hofburg produced fractions of :13.20, :24.60,…

Sea Hero: How the 1993 Kentucky Derby winner capped a lifetime in racing

Apr 29, 2018

Whether you cash a ticket or not, the Kentucky Derby result can be gratifying in other ways. An example of that is witnessing a long-time patron of the turf who, after decades of industry support and success, finally tastes victory for the first time…

Churchill Downs Stakes Recap & Quotes: Favored Beckford Rallies to Win Opening-Night William Walker

Apr 28, 2018

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Saturday, April 28, 2018) – Newtown Anner Stud’s Beckford (GB) rallied from far back in the stretch to run down pace-setter Salmanazar by three-quarters of a length to win the fourth running of the $100,000 William Walker Presented by GE…