Derby’s official website longest-running sporting event first Kentucky Derby was held oldest about 10,000 people the most exciting two minutes in sports. Secretariat about 10,000 people the most exciting two minutes in sports. first Kentucky Derby took place in 1875. Derby’s official website www.kentuckyderby.com/history/kentucky-derby-history the most exciting two minutes in sports the Kentucky Derby first Saturday in May red rose a long history Kentucky Derby Derby was brought to the states by Meriwether Lewis Clark three fillies