(WSYX) — The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby takes place Saturday night at historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
The race is scheduled to start at 6:57 p.m., but it doesn’t always go off on time. Still, be sure to claim your seat on the couch at your cousin’s party well before then in case it does start as scheduled, especially since the race only lasts two minutes.
Who is the favorite?
As of this writing Saturday morning, Journalism is the favorite at 7-2 odds. That means if you wager $2 you would win $7.
How many horses are running?
As of this writing Saturday morning, 19 horses are set to run for the roses. The cap is 20 horses, but often times one or two runners will scratch from the field during the week of the race.
How long is the track?
The track for the Kentucky Derby is 1 and 1/4 miles long.
What is a furlong?
1/8th of a mile, about 220 yards.
What is a trifecta?
A winning trifecta ticket is one where the bettor correctly wagers on the top three finishers in order. A safer bet, with more possible outcomes but a lower payout, is a trifecta box, which means you pick the top three finishers, regardless of order. Same rule applies to an exacta (two horses) and a superfecta (four horses). And don’t even get us started on exotics.
What is a mint julep and why does it suck?
You know how many cities are known nationally for one culinary delight but hip locals hate it? Think Skyline Chili or Primanti Brothers. The mint julep is Louisville’s America’s most overrated cocktail. But if you must make it today, and only today, it’s made of bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint and crushed ice. It’s a Derby staple. A similar and better option would be those ingredients minus the simple syrup, fresh mint and crushed ice.
What’s one thing I should know about Churchill Downs?
The world’s most famous race track opened in 1875 and now seats at least 170,000. That’s two things. You’re welcome.
What happens in the infield?
Remember when you were in college and you did stupid stuff? Well, let’s just put it this way. If you are not in college, don’t go to the infield.
What and when are the three races that make up the Triple Crown?
The Kentucky Derby is always on the first Saturday in May, the Preakness is exactly two weeks later and the Belmont Stakes is three weeks after that.
Who was Secretariat?
The 1973 Triple Crown winner is considered by most turf writers as the greatest thoroughbred horse of all time. His winning Derby time of 1:59.40 is the fastest ever and his combined Triple Crown time remains the fastest ever.
Who won last year?
The Kenneth McPeek-trained Mystik Dan, with Brian Hernandez Jr. aboard, won the 2024 Kentucky Derby in 2:03.34.
