The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby will be held on Saturday at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This prestigious race, which kicks off the Triple Crown series, features a 20-horse field of 3-year-olds competing for a share of the $5 million purse. This year, notable trainer Bob Baffert will be absent from the race following a ban extended through 2024. Baffert, a six-time Derby winner, was banned after 2021 winner Medina Spirit failed a drug test.
The list of horses competing in this year’s Derby includes Dornoch, Sierra Leone, Mystik Dan, Catching Freedom, Catalytic, Just Steel, Honor Marie, Just a Touch, T O Password, Forever Young, Track Phantom, West Saratoga, Endlessly, Domestic Product, Grand Mo The First, Fierceness, Stronghold, Resilience, Society Man, and Epic Ride. Fierceness, trained by Todd Pletcher, is the favorite to win at odds of 3-1 after his impressive win at the Florida Derby.
The race can be watched at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, or on NBC at 6:57 p.m. EST on May 4, 2024. The Kentucky Derby is a historic and highly anticipated event in the world of horse racing, attracting millions of viewers. While this year will see the absence of a Baffert-trained horse, the competition is expected to be fierce among the field of talented horses vying for glory and a chance to make history.
The Kentucky Derby has a rich tradition dating back to its inception in 1875, making it one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. The race is known for its thrilling competition and the excitement of seeing young horses compete in the hopes of capturing the title. The Derby is a symbol of excellence in horse racing and serves as a platform for showcasing the talent of both horses and trainers.
Despite the absence of a Baffert-trained horse this year, the Kentucky Derby will still draw in a large audience of horse racing enthusiasts and casual fans alike. The event is a celebration of the sport and its history, as well as an opportunity to witness the next generation of talented horses competing at the highest level. The Derby is a must-watch event for anyone with an interest in horse racing and a love for the thrill of competition on the track.
