Kentucky Derby Fun Facts

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We’ve created this list of 50 fun facts about the Kentucky Derby!

In addition to over 50 fun facts about the Kentucky Derby, learn more about its history, the best horses and jockeys, legends, traditions, and so much more!

Kentucky Derby Fun Facts


Table of Contents

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – About the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is a famous thoroughbred horse race held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, United States. It is the first leg of the American Triple Crown, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

The Kentucky Derby is often referred to as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” because it typically takes about two minutes for the horses to complete the 1.25-mile (2.01 km) race. The event has a long history, with the first Kentucky Derby taking place in 1875. It has become a major cultural and social event in the United States, attracting a wide range of spectators from all over the world.

The race is typically held on the first Saturday in May and is open to three-year-old thoroughbred horses. The winner of the Kentucky Derby receives a garland of roses, hence the nickname “The Run for the Roses.” In addition to the race itself, the Kentucky Derby is also known for its fashion and traditions, such as the playing of “My Old Kentucky Home” and the drinking of mint juleps.

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – History of the Game

Before we get to the fun facts about the Kentucky Derby, here’s a little bit about its history.

The Kentucky Derby has a long and storied history that dates back to 1875, when the race was first run at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The race was the brainchild of a group of local horsemen, who wanted to create a high-profile horse race that would showcase the region’s thoroughbred horses and the sport of horse racing.

The inaugural Kentucky Derby was a huge success, with an estimated crowd of 10,000 people in attendance to watch 15 horses compete in the 1.5-mile race. Aristides, ridden by jockey Oliver Lewis, was the first horse to cross the finish line and win the race.

Over the years, the Kentucky Derby has grown in popularity and stature, becoming one of the most important and prestigious horse races in the world. The race has also become a symbol of Kentucky’s rich horse racing heritage and is an important part of American culture and history.

Some of the most famous horses in racing history have competed in the Kentucky Derby, including Secretariat, who set a record time in 1973 that still stands today, and American Pharoah, who became the first horse in 37 years to win the Triple Crown in 2015.

The Kentucky Derby has also been the site of many historical moments and milestones, including the first female jockey to ride in the race in 1970, and the first African American jockey to win the race in 1902.

Today, the Kentucky Derby is a major social and sporting event, drawing crowds of over 150,000 people to Churchill Downs each year, and is broadcast to millions of viewers around the world. The race is the first leg of the Triple Crown, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes, and is one of the most highly anticipated and prestigious events in the world of horse racing.

Kentucky Derby Fun Facts

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – 50 Fun Facts

Here are 50 fun facts about the Kentucky Derby:

  1. The Kentucky Derby is a horse race held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
  2. The race is often referred to as the “most exciting two minutes in sports” because it typically only takes about two minutes for the horses to complete the course.
  3. The first Kentucky Derby was held on May 17, 1875.
  4. The race was founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of William Clark, who was one of the leaders of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
  5. The race was originally run at a distance of 1.5 miles, but it was shortened to its current distance of 1.25 miles in 1896.
  6. The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.
  7. Only twelve horses have ever won the Triple Crown, with the most recent being Justify in 2018.
  8. The Kentucky Derby is also known for its fashion, with many attendees dressing in fancy hats and dresses.
  9. The official drink of the Kentucky Derby is the mint julep, a cocktail made with bourbon, sugar, water, and fresh mint.
  10. The Kentucky Derby has been broadcast on television since 1952.
  11. The largest attendance in Kentucky Derby history was in 2015, when 170,513 people attended the race.
  12. The smallest attendance in Kentucky Derby history was in 2020, when the race was held without fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  13. The fastest time ever recorded in the Kentucky Derby was by Secretariat in 1973, who completed the race in 1:59.40.
  14. The slowest time ever recorded in the Kentucky Derby was by Kingman in 1917, who completed the race in 2:52.00.
  15. The Kentucky Derby has been cancelled only three times in its history: in 1891 due to a state law that banned betting on horse races, and in 1945 and 2020 due to World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively.
  16. The Kentucky Derby trophy is made of 14-karat gold and stands 22 inches tall.
  17. The trophy is also topped with a small golden horse and rider.
  18. The Kentucky Derby has inspired many movies, including “Secretariat,” “Seabiscuit,” and “My Old Kentucky Home.”
  19. The Kentucky Derby has also inspired many songs, including “My Old Kentucky Home” by Stephen Foster, which is traditionally played before the race.
  20. The Kentucky Derby has its own museum, located at Churchill Downs.
  21. The museum features exhibits on the history of the race, as well as displays of famous jockeys, horses, and trainers.
  22. The Kentucky Derby has its own official website, which provides information on the race and its history, as well as ticket sales and merchandise.
  23. The Kentucky Derby has its own official app, which provides real-time updates on the race and allows users to place bets.
  24. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous attendees over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, President Gerald Ford, and Muhammad Ali.
  25. The Kentucky Derby is also known for its food, with traditional Kentucky dishes like burgoo, hot browns, and derby pie being served at the race.
  26. The Kentucky Derby has a purse of $3 million, with the winner receiving $1.86 million.
  27. The Kentucky Derby has had many controversies over the years, including disputes over drug testing and the use of whips.
  28. The Kentucky Derby has been run in the rain many times, with some of the most memorable races occurring in wet conditions.
  29. In 1918, the Kentucky Derby was run in a downpour, which made it difficult for the jockeys to see and caused many of the horses to slip and slide.
  30. In 1968, the Kentucky Derby was run in a heavy rainstorm, which caused the track to become extremely muddy.
  31. In 2019, the Kentucky Derby was run in the rain and was marred by controversy when the winner, Maximum Security, was disqualified for interference.
  32. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous horses over the years, including Secretariat, Affirmed, and American Pharoah.
  33. Secretariat, who won the Triple Crown in 1973, is considered by many to be the greatest racehorse of all time.
  34. American Pharoah, who won the Triple Crown in 2015, was the first horse to do so in 37 years.
  35. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous jockeys over the years, including Eddie Arcaro, Bill Hartack, and Pat Day.
  36. Eddie Arcaro holds the record for the most Kentucky Derby wins by a jockey, with five.
  37. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous trainers over the years, including Woody Stephens, D. Wayne Lukas, and Bob Baffert.
  38. Bob Baffert has won the Kentucky Derby seven times, which is tied for the most by a trainer.
  39. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous owners over the years, including Calumet Farm, which won the race a record eight times.
  40. The Kentucky Derby has had many traditions over the years, including the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home” and the mint julep.
  41. The Kentucky Derby has also had some unusual traditions, such as the “running of the roses,” which involves a parade of horses and jockeys carrying a garland of roses.
  42. The Kentucky Derby has had many international competitors over the years, with horses coming from countries like Canada, Japan, and Ireland.
  43. The Kentucky Derby has also had some unusual competitors over the years, including a horse named Sputnik in 1961, who was owned by the Soviet Union.
  44. The Kentucky Derby has had many memorable finishes over the years, with some races being won by just a nose or a head.
  45. The Kentucky Derby has had many close calls over the years, with some horses nearly winning the Triple Crown but falling short in the Belmont Stakes.
  46. The Kentucky Derby has had many historical moments over the years, including the first female jockey to ride in the race in 1970.
  47. The Kentucky Derby has had many charitable initiatives over the years, including the Churchill Downs Incorporated Foundation, which supports organizations that provide education, health, and social services to underserved communities.
  48. The Kentucky Derby has had many notable sponsors over the years, including Yum! Brands, which owns KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut.
  49. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous announcers over the years, including Dave Johnson, who coined the phrase “and down the stretch they come.”
  50. The Kentucky Derby remains one of the most popular and prestigious horse races in the world, with millions of people tuning in to watch the event each year.
Kentucky Derby Fun Facts

Fun Facts About Kentucky Derby – 25 Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 25 fun facts about the Kentucky Derby that kids might enjoy:

  1. The Kentucky Derby is a famous horse race that takes place every year on the first Saturday in May.
  2. The Kentucky Derby is often called “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”
  3. The race is held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
  4. The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.
  5. The winner of the Kentucky Derby receives a blanket of roses, which is why the race is sometimes called the “Run for the Roses.”
  6. The Kentucky Derby was first run in 1875, which makes it one of the oldest horse races in the world.
  7. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous horses over the years, including Secretariat, who set a record time in 1973 that still stands today.
  8. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous jockeys over the years, including Eddie Arcaro, who won the race five times.
  9. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous trainers over the years, including Bob Baffert, who has won the race seven times.
  10. The Kentucky Derby has had many famous owners over the years, including Calumet Farm, which has won the race a record eight times.
  11. The Kentucky Derby is a big social event, with many people dressing up in fancy hats and outfits.
  12. The Kentucky Derby is also famous for the mint julep, a drink made with bourbon, sugar, and mint.
  13. The Kentucky Derby is broadcast on TV, and millions of people around the world watch the race.
  14. The Kentucky Derby is a great opportunity to learn about horses and horse racing.
  15. Horses that run in the Kentucky Derby are three-year-olds, which means they are still young and developing.
  16. The horses in the Kentucky Derby run a distance of 1 1/4 miles, which is about 10 furlongs.
  17. The Kentucky Derby has had some unexpected winners over the years, including a horse named Mine That Bird who won the race in 2009 at odds of 50-1.
  18. The Kentucky Derby has had many exciting finishes, with some races being won by just a nose or a head.
  19. The Kentucky Derby has had many international competitors over the years, with horses coming from countries like Canada, Japan, and Ireland.
  20. The Kentucky Derby has had many historical moments over the years, including the first female jockey to ride in the race in 1970.
  21. The Kentucky Derby has had many charitable initiatives over the years, including the Churchill Downs Incorporated Foundation, which supports organizations that provide education, health, and social services to underserved communities.
  22. The Kentucky Derby has had many notable sponsors over the years, including Yum! Brands, which owns KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut.
  23. The Kentucky Derby is a great way to spend time with family and friends and enjoy a fun day at the races.
  24. The Kentucky Derby is a celebration of the beauty and power of horses, and it’s a great opportunity to appreciate these amazing animals.
  25. The Kentucky Derby is a symbol of Kentucky’s rich horse racing heritage, and it’s an important part of American culture and history.

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – Rules of the Game

In addition to the fun facts about the Kentucky Derby, here are some details about its rules:

The Kentucky Derby, like all horse races, has rules that are established by the governing body that oversees the sport of horse racing in the United States, which is the Thoroughbred Racing Association (TRA). Here are some of the key rules and regulations that apply to the Kentucky Derby:

  1. Eligibility: Only three-year-old thoroughbred horses are eligible to compete in the Kentucky Derby. To be eligible, horses must meet certain criteria, such as earning enough qualifying points by placing in designated prep races leading up to the Kentucky Derby.
  2. Weight: All horses must carry a specific weight, known as the impost, which is assigned based on the horse’s age, sex, and performance record.
  3. Distance: The Kentucky Derby is a 1 1/4 mile race, or approximately 10 furlongs.
  4. Jockey: Each horse is ridden by a jockey, who is responsible for guiding the horse and ensuring that they stay within the rules of the race.
  5. Starting gate: The Kentucky Derby uses a starting gate, which is a mechanical device that helps ensure a fair and safe start to the race.
  6. Racing tactics: Jockeys are not allowed to use certain tactics, such as blocking or bumping other horses, to gain an advantage during the race.
  7. Medication: The use of certain medications, such as performance-enhancing drugs or painkillers, is strictly prohibited in horse racing, including the Kentucky Derby.
  8. Equipment: Horses must wear certain equipment, such as a bridle and a saddle, during the race.
  9. Stewards: Stewards are officials who oversee the race and ensure that all rules and regulations are followed. They may review video footage of the race and make decisions about any potential rule violations.

These are just a few of the many rules and regulations that apply to the Kentucky Derby. Horse racing is a highly regulated sport, and the rules are designed to ensure the safety and welfare of the horses and riders, as well as to promote fair and competitive racing.

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – Where It’s Raced

In addition to the fun facts about the Kentucky Derby, here are some details about where it’s held.

The Kentucky Derby is held annually at Churchill Downs, a historic racetrack located in Louisville, Kentucky.

Churchill Downs was founded in 1875, specifically to host the Kentucky Derby, which is now the oldest continuously held horse race in the United States.

Churchill Downs is a landmark of American horse racing and has hosted many other prestigious races over the years, including the Kentucky Oaks, the Breeders’ Cup, and the Stephen Foster Handicap.

The track has a seating capacity of over 150,000 spectators and is known for its iconic twin spires, which are a symbol of the Kentucky Derby and horse racing in general.

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – Best Horses

The Kentucky Derby has seen many great horses over the years, but here are some fun facts about the Kentucky Derby and some of the most famous and successful horses in the history of the race:

  1. Secretariat: Widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all time, Secretariat won the Kentucky Derby in 1973 in record-breaking time, with a final time of 1:59.4 that still stands as the fastest time in the history of the race.
  2. Citation: A Triple Crown winner in 1948, Citation won the Kentucky Derby in 1948 with a time of 2:05.4, setting a new record at the time.
  3. Affirmed: Another Triple Crown winner, Affirmed won the Kentucky Derby in 1978 in a dramatic finish, edging out his rival Alydar in a photo finish.
  4. Seattle Slew: The only horse to win the Triple Crown while undefeated, Seattle Slew won the Kentucky Derby in 1977 and went on to win the Preakness and Belmont Stakes as well.
  5. American Pharoah: In 2015, American Pharoah became the first horse in 37 years to win the Triple Crown, with a dominant performance in the Kentucky Derby that saw him win by over a length.
  6. War Admiral: The son of the legendary racehorse Man o’ War, War Admiral won the Kentucky Derby in 1937 and went on to win the Triple Crown.
  7. Northern Dancer: A Canadian-bred horse, Northern Dancer won the Kentucky Derby in 1964 and went on to become one of the most successful and influential sires in thoroughbred racing history.

These are just a few of the many great horses who have competed in the Kentucky Derby over the years, and each has left their own unique mark on the history of the race.

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – Best Jockeys

The Kentucky Derby has seen many great jockeys over the years, but here are some fun facts about the Kentucky Derby some of the most successful and famous jockeys in the history of the race:

  1. Eddie Arcaro: Often considered the greatest jockey in the history of horse racing, Eddie Arcaro won the Kentucky Derby five times, including in 1952 aboard the legendary horse Hill Gail.
  2. Bill Shoemaker: Known as “The Shoe,” Bill Shoemaker won the Kentucky Derby four times in his illustrious career, including in 1955 aboard Swaps, and is still the all-time leading money-winning jockey in horse racing history.
  3. Bill Hartack: One of the most successful jockeys in Kentucky Derby history, Bill Hartack won the race five times between 1957 and 1969, including back-to-back wins in 1960 and 1961 aboard Venetian Way and Carry Back, respectively.
  4. Kent Desormeaux: One of the most talented jockeys of his generation, Kent Desormeaux has won the Kentucky Derby three times, including in 1998 aboard Real Quiet and in 2000 aboard Fusaichi Pegasus.
  5. Angel Cordero Jr.: A fearless and talented rider, Angel Cordero Jr. won the Kentucky Derby three times in his career, including in 1974 aboard Cannonade and in 1976 aboard Bold Forbes.
  6. Pat Day: A popular and respected jockey, Pat Day won the Kentucky Derby four times in his career, including in 1992 aboard Lil E. Tee and in 1996 aboard Grindstone.

These are just a few of the many great jockeys who have competed in the Kentucky Derby over the years, and each has left their own unique mark on the history of the race.

Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby – Greatest Records

The Kentucky Derby has a long and storied history, and there are many records that have been set and broken over the years. Here are some fun facts about the Kentucky Derby and some of the most notable records in the history of the event:

  1. Fastest Winning Time: The fastest winning time in the history of the Kentucky Derby is 1:59.4, which was set by Secretariat in 1973.
  2. Most Wins by a Jockey: Eddie Arcaro and Bill Hartack hold the record for most Kentucky Derby wins by a jockey, with five wins each.
  3. Most Wins by a Trainer: Ben Jones holds the record for most Kentucky Derby wins by a trainer, with six wins between 1938 and 1952.
  4. Most Wins by an Owner: Calumet Farm holds the record for most Kentucky Derby wins by an owner, with eight wins between 1941 and 1968.
  5. Most Consecutive Wins: Ben Jones also holds the record for most consecutive Kentucky Derby wins by a trainer, with four wins between 1948 and 1951.
  6. Largest Winning Margin: The largest winning margin in the history of the Kentucky Derby is eight lengths, which has been accomplished several times, most recently by Assault in 1946.
  7. Most Starters in a Single Race: The record for most starters in a single Kentucky Derby race is 23, which occurred in 1974 and 1984.

These are just a few of the many records in the history of the Kentucky Derby, and each one represents a remarkable achievement in the world of thoroughbred horse racing.

About the Kentucky Derby – Legends

The Kentucky Derby has been a part of American culture for over a century, and as such, many legends and stories have developed around the race. Here are some fun facts about the Kentucky Derby and some of the most famous legends associated with the event:

  1. The Curse of Apollo: The legend of the Curse of Apollo suggests that no horse can win the Kentucky Derby if they did not race as a two-year-old. This curse was broken in 2018 when Justify became the first horse since 1882 to win the Kentucky Derby without racing as a two-year-old.
  2. Mint Julep Traditions: The Mint Julep is the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby, and many legends surround the origins of this famous cocktail. Some stories suggest that it was invented by a famous bartender in the late 1800s, while others attribute its creation to a wealthy plantation owner.
  3. The Twin Spires: The Twin Spires are the iconic architectural feature of Churchill Downs, and they have become a symbol of the Kentucky Derby itself. Legend has it that the spires were designed to mimic the appearance of the spires at the famous Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris.
  4. The Rose Garland: The winner of the Kentucky Derby is traditionally presented with a garland of roses, which has become one of the most iconic symbols of the race. Legend has it that the tradition began in 1883 when a Louisville florist presented roses to the winning jockey.

These are just a few of the many legends and stories associated with the Kentucky Derby, and they add to the rich history and lore of this iconic American sporting event.

About the Kentucky Derby – Traditions

The Kentucky Derby is steeped in tradition, and there are many long-standing customs and rituals associated with the race. Here are some fun facts about the Kentucky Derby and some of the most famous Kentucky Derby traditions:

  1. Mint Juleps: The Mint Julep is the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby, and it has been served at the race since the late 1800s. The drink is made with bourbon, sugar, water, and mint, and it is typically served in a silver or pewter cup.
  2. Rose Garland: The winner of the Kentucky Derby is traditionally presented with a garland of red roses, which has become known as the “Run for the Roses.” The garland is made up of over 400 roses and is presented to the winning horse and jockey after the race.
  3. “My Old Kentucky Home”: “My Old Kentucky Home” is a song written by Stephen Foster in 1852, and it has been played at the Kentucky Derby since the 1920s. The song is played by the University of Louisville Marching Band before the race, and it is considered a beloved Kentucky Derby tradition.
  4. Derby Hats: The Kentucky Derby is known for its fashionable and elaborate hats, which have become a tradition at the race. Women often wear large, decorative hats adorned with ribbons, flowers, and feathers, while men typically wear fedoras or other stylish hats.
  5. Opening Ceremonies: The Kentucky Derby is known for its grand opening ceremonies, which include a parade of horses and jockeys, the singing of the national anthem, and a military flyover.

These are just a few of the many traditions associated with the Kentucky Derby, and they add to the unique character and charm of this iconic American sporting event.

About the Kentucky Derby – Movies

There have been several movies made about the Kentucky Derby over the years, and they range from classic dramas to lighthearted comedies. Here are some fun facts about the Kentucky Derby and a few of the most famous movies about it:

  1. Seabiscuit (2003): Seabiscuit is a biographical sports drama film about the famous racehorse of the same name, who became a national icon during the Great Depression. The film includes a dramatic reenactment of the 1938 Santa Anita Handicap race, which was considered a precursor to the Kentucky Derby.
  2. Secretariat (2010): Secretariat is a biographical sports drama film about the legendary racehorse of the same name, who won the Triple Crown in 1973. The film includes a thrilling recreation of Secretariat’s victory in the 1973 Kentucky Derby.
  3. Casey’s Shadow (1978): Casey’s Shadow is a comedy-drama film about a Louisiana horse trainer who dreams of winning the Kentucky Derby with his underdog horse. The film includes several scenes filmed at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby.
  4. Thunderhead, Son of Flicka (1945): Thunderhead, Son of Flicka is a classic family adventure film about a young boy and his beloved horse, who compete in the Kentucky Derby. The film includes several thrilling race scenes filmed at Churchill Downs.

These are just a few of the many movies that have been made about the Kentucky Derby, and they offer a glimpse into the rich history and drama of this iconic American sporting event.

Other Interesting Things About the Kentucky Derby – Quotes

The Kentucky Derby has inspired many memorable quotes over the years, from famous jockeys and trainers to beloved writers and celebrities. In addition to the fun facts about the Kentucky Derby, here are a few notable quotes about it:

  1. “The Kentucky Derby is the greatest two minutes in sports.” – Jimmy Vasser, former IndyCar driver
  2. “The Kentucky Derby is a time-honored tradition that holds a special place in the hearts of horse racing fans.” – Jennifer Wirth, director of marketing and communications at Churchill Downs
  3. “The Kentucky Derby is like no other race. The prestige of winning this race is unbelievable.” – Bob Baffert, Hall of Fame trainer
  4. “The Kentucky Derby is a celebration of grace, beauty, and athleticism.” – Cynthia Bardes, author
  5. “The Kentucky Derby is a day for the ladies to dress up in their finest attire and hats, and a day for the gentlemen to sip mint juleps and bet on the horses.” – Unknown
  6. “The Kentucky Derby is the one race every trainer, owner, and jockey dreams of winning.” – D. Wayne Lukas, Hall of Fame trainer
  7. “The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race; it’s a celebration of the American spirit and the thrill of competition.” – Unknown

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