Kentucky Derby - Horse Racing Topics - ESPN Results The Kentucky Derby is a stakes race for 3-year-old thoroughbred horses, held each year in Louisville, Ky., in May. The race covers one and one-quarter miles and is known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" after its approximate time length. The Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown of thoroughbred racing. The race is an extremely popular event, both in sports and in culture, and typically draws about 155,000 fans. The Derby is the final event of a two-week-long Kentucky Derby Festival. It holds many popular traditions, in everything from fashion -- large and distinctive hats for female attendants -- to drinks -- the popular mint julep. Horse racing has been a popular sport in Kentucky for more than 150 years, with the first race course laid out in Lexington in 1789. The first Derby, though, came about 100 years later, in 1875. Founded by Col. M. Lewis Clark, the Derby was the first of its kind in the South and was modeled after popular stakes races in England.

The first Kentucky Derby took place on May 17, 1875, and was watched by more than 10,000 viewers. Four races were scheduled that day, but the Derby was the premier event. The first race was won by a 3-year-old chestnut colt, Aristides. Despite the high attendance and popularity of the event, the Derby and the Louisville Jockey Club were not financially successful, and it was bought and incorporated in 1894. In 1913, Donerail became the longest shot ever to win the Derby, at $92.40 to 1 odds. Donerail paid out $184.90 on a $2 bet and collected $5,475 for the victory. He won in 2:04.80, at the time the fastest time ever run. That record was broken again just a year later, when Old Rosebud set a track record of 2:03.40 -- winning the race by eight lengths. The Derby had another marquee year in 1915, when Regret became the first filly to win the race.

After two record-setting years and a history-making race the next, the Derby had become a premier American sporting event. Having been taken over yet again, and consolidating its power with other Kentucky racing sites, the Derby became part of the Kentucky Jockey Club and its popularity grew over the next decade. The club obtained several new tracks in both Kentucky and Illinois and eventually reorganized as a holding company to increase its capitalization by almost 100 percent. By 1928, the American Turf Association was the new holding company for Churchill Downs and its partner tracks. In 1925, the race was broadcast live on the radio for the first time, spreading its popularity across the country. Its first international broadcast came not long after, when the transmission was sent from Louisville to New Jersey to England in 1933. Two years later, the first Kentucky Derby Festival was held. After the American Turf Association sold many of its holdings, Churchill Downs and Latonia merged into its own incorporated company, Churchill Downs-Latonia Incorporated, in 1937. After Latonia was sold in 1943, the company became just Churchill Downs Incorporated.

The ATA was dissolved in 1953, and Churchill Downs became the sole holding company. World War II provided some challenges for the Derby, but it continued each year. In 1943, government travel restrictions precluded the sale of any out-of-town tickets, and Count Fleet won a race known as the "Street Car Derby." The government banned all horse racing in January 1945, threatening the Derby's continuous run of races, but it was lifted in May and the 71st Derby was held in June. Over the 10 years from 1940 to 1950, Churchill Downs Foundation donated $1.5 million to war charities and other causes. The first televised Derby -- on a local channel and a limited basis -- was run in 1949. The first national telecast came three years later, on May 3, 1952; and a video replay system was installed for the first time in 1954. The 1950s also saw vast improvements and renovations done to Churchill Downs, modernizing and expanding the track.

The first (and only) Derby winner disqualification took place in 1968, when the winner, Dancer's Image, was found to have had an illegal medication in its blood during post-race testing. The second-place finisher, Forward Pass, was declared the winner. After several takeover bids, from private groups and the city of Louisville, the board of directors created the Derby Protection Group to outbid all suitors and maintain control of the company -- also successfully driving stock up significantly. In 1973, Secretariat won the Derby and broke two minutes for the first time in Derby history. Secretariat finished the race in 1:59.40. He went on to become the first Triple Crown winner in 25 years. After that history-making race, the Derby followed with another landmark event when a record 163,628 viewers -- more than for any other thoroughbred race -- watched the 100th running of the Derby. Cannonade topped a field of 23 for the win. Pat Day was the man of the hour in the mid-1980s.

In 1983, he rode 169 winners in the spring meet and 54 in the fall meet. Five times he ran five winners in one day. The following year, he broke a 77-year- old record by riding seven winners in eight races in one day. Renovations continued through the 1970s and 1980s, completing renovations to the turf, press box, sky boxes, clubhouse and paddocks by the late 1980s. The renovations both kept the Derby as the premier horse racing event in the country and attracted the Breeders' Cup to Churchill Downs, earning a record crowd of 80,452 in 1998. The growth impacted all aspects of the Derby. Derby Day wagering had increased from $26,805,205 in 1985 to $88,941,006 in 1998. That led to increases in the winnings, which rose from a daily average of $187,363 in 1990 to $469,643 in 1999.

It also led to further expansion by Churchill Downs Incorporated, which bought several new holdings in Indiana and Kentucky in the 1990s, and, in 1999, Miami. Throughout the 2000s, the Derby continued to grow and expand and entered the age of technology. A new simulcast betting system was put into place and a state-of-the-art center was built several miles from the track specifically for betting. By 2004, the Churchill Down Stakes schedule included a record 45 races, 33 in the spring and 12 in the fall. That same year, the Kentucky Derby winner, Smarty Jones, was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated, the first time in 20 years a horse had graced the cover. The company continued to buy more tracks across the country, in New Orleans and other cities. Queen Elizabeth II visited the Derby during a trip to the United States in 2007. Calvin Borel became the most famous jockey in recent history when he won three out of four Derbies from 2007 to 2010 -- the first jockey ever to win three in four years.

Borel won with Super Saver in 2010, Mine That Bird in 2009 and Street Sense in 2007. Borel's victory with Mine That Bird was the second biggest upset in Derby history, after Donerail. Churchill Downs is a racetrack in Louisville, Ky., that hosts the Kentucky Derby each year. It is one of the most famous tracks in the world, and was ranked the No. 5 course in North America in 2009. Churchill Downs also is the host for the 2011 Breeders' Cups, which it has hosted six times before. The course features a one-mile dirt racetrack. The facility usually hosts about 50,000 viewers on its signature grandstands, though that number can triple on Derby days. One of the track's signature images is that of the twin spires that sit on top of the course's grandstand, and they now serve as the course's official logo -- and that of its owner, Churchill Downs Incorporated. Churchill Downs opened in Louisville in 1875 with the inaugural Kentucky Derby. The race was created by horse breeder Col. M.

Lewis Clark, who was inspired by the derbies in England in the 1870s. Clark created three stakes races to be held at Churchill Downs: the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Clark Handicap. The first Derby was held on May 17, 1875, the first day the track formally opened. Churchill Downs was named a National Historic Landmark in October 1986. Kentucky Derby Year-by-Year Winners Uncontested all the way in Smarty Jones Stakes Mary Rampellini | Daily Racing Form, Daily Racing Form Uncontested was left alone on the lead in the $150,000 Smarty Jones Stakes on Monday at Oaklawn Park and put on a show in the slop. NFL - An A.I. platform that predicted the Kentucky Derby superfecta and Chicago Cubs title likes Green Bay Packers to win Super Bowl LI David Purdum An artificial intelligence platform that correctly picked the Kentucky Derby superfecta and the Chicago Cubs to win the World Series has chosen the Green Bay Packers to win Super Bowl LI.

Watchmaker: Gormley shows he doesn't need it all his way Mike Watchmaker, Daily Racing Form January may be barely a week old, but for many the real road to the May 6 Kentucky Derby began Saturday at Santa Anita in a sloppy-track Sham Stakes. Gormley gets the better of American Anthem in Sham Jay Privman | Daily Racing Form, Daily Racing Form Gormley is named for a famed British sculptor, but it is trainer John Shirreffs who is molding Antony Gormley's namesake into one of the top prospects for the Kentucky Derby. El Areeb takes first step toward Kentucky Derby David Grening | Daily Racing Form, Daily Racing Form Trainer Cal Lynch believes El Areeb could be the best horse he's trained in a 20-year career and, after the colt's performance in Monday's Grade 3, $150,000 Jerome Stakes. USA Horse Racing - Betting on Horses in U.S. USA Horse Racing Live Betting USA Horse Racing The most important horse races in the United States are the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. The three championship races for three-year-olds form the Triple Crown and are held in May and June each year.

The only races to rival the Triple Crown are held at the prestigious Breeders’ Cup meeting in November culminating in the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic . This is the second richest horse race in the world behind the Dubai World Cup. The current best betting site for USA horse racing is Sportsbook.com where most races are covered with very decent odds. Triple Crown Just eleven horses have managed to complete the American Triple Crown. Sir Barton was the first horse to do so in 1919 followed by Gallant Fox (1930), Omaha (1935) and War Admiral (1937). Four horses were successful in the 1940’s: Whirlaway (1941), Count Fleet (1943), Assault (1946) and Citation (1948). It was then another 25 years until Secretariat produced his sensational performances in 1973. Seattle Slew (1977) and Affirmed (1978) were the most recent Triple Crown winners. Many horses have won two of the three championship races.

The five most recent horses to win the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes only to be withdrawn or defeated from the Belmont were War Emblem (2002), Funny Cide (2003), Smarty Jones (2004), Big Brown (2008) and I’ll Have Another (2012). Kentucky Derby The Kentucky Derby is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-olds held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky. The race is over one and a quarter miles and best known as “The Run for the Roses” for the blanket of roses that is traditionally draped over the winner. The Kentucky Derby is a huge betting event and draws a massive crowd, the highest in North American racing. Preakness Stakes The Preakness Stakes is held on the third Saturday in May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. It is a Grade I race run over 9.5 furlongs on dirt and makes up the second leg of the Triple Crown. This race invariably attracts the winner of the Kentucky Derby and creates enormous public interest with only the Kentucky Derby attracting a bigger audience.

Belmont Stakes The Belmont Stakes is staged in June at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. It is a one and a half-mile race and puts the emphasis on stamina for any horse successful in the Kentucky Derby and/or Preakness. It is held exactly five weeks after the Kentucky Derby, and three weeks after the Preakness Stakes. The race takes on extra significance if there is a horse still in line for the illusive Triple Crown, which is also of interest for anyone in horse race betting . Breeders’ Cup The Breeders’ Cup is a two-day festival of top international racing with a multitude of Group 1 races on turf and dirt. The venue alters every season but it has only been staged once outside of the United States when it was held at the Woodbine Racetrack in Canada in 1996. There is always a strong European challenge and they have been increasingly successful, almost exclusively in the turf races. The meeting was first staged in 1984 as a single day but was extended to two in 2007. There are 14 Breeders’ Cup Championship races with a maximum field of 14 runners.

The Blue Riband event is the $5 million Classic that brings the meeting to a close. This race regularly attracts the best North American and International thoroughbreds. The great Cigar won in 1995 and in 2010 the race ended in heartbreak as the mighty Zenyatta lost her unbeaten record when failing to catch Blame in a thrilling finish. In 2010, the French-trained mare Goldikova became the most successful horse in the history of the Breeders’ Cup when she took the mile for a third consecutive year. The 29th Breeders’ Cup at Santa Anita (2012) Day 1 $500,000 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Sprint (ungraded) $500,000 Breeders’ Cup Marathon (gr. II) $1 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (gr. I) $2 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies (gr. I) $2 million Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (gr. I) $2 million Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic (gr.

I) Day 2 $1 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (gr. I) $1 million Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint (gr. I) $1.5 million Breeders’ Cup Sprint (gr. I) $1 million Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (gr. I) $1 million Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile (gr. I) $3 million Breeders’ Cup Turf (gr. I) $2 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (gr. I) $2 million Breeders’ Cup Mile (gr. I) $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I) Video for Breeders Cup 2012 Classic Other Important Races in USA The American Oaks Invitational Stakes is held in early July at Hollywood Park Racetrack in Inglewood, California. It is restricted to three-year-old fillies and contested over one and a quarter miles on turf. This is one of many important USA horse racing betting events, apart from the big races covered on top of this page. The Arkansas Derby is restricted to three-year-olds and takes place at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

It is a Grade I event over a distance of 9 furlongs on dirt. It is recognised as a trial for the Triple Crown races and an important horse race in USA. The Arlington Million is a Grade 1 race for horses aged three years and upward that takes place in August over a distance of one and a quarter miles at Arlington Park in Arlington Heights, Illinois. It was the first thoroughbred race to offer prize money of US$1,000,000. The Beverly D. Stakes is a Grade 1 race for fillies and mares aged three-years-old and upward and takes place on the same day as the Arlington Million. The Blue Grass Stakes is restricted to three-year-olds and is held in mid April at Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington, Kentucky. It is an important trial for the Kentucky Derby and therefore a big US horse race betting event. The Florida Derby takes place at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida at the end of March or early April. This Grade 1 event for three-year-olds is run on the dirt for a purse of $1 Million. The Flower Bowl Invitational Stakes is a Grade I race for fillies and mares run in early October at Belmont Park.

The race was named after the winner of the Ladies Handicap at Belmont Park who went on to become an outstanding broodmare. It is a key trial for the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf. The Haskell Invitational was originally a handicap for older horses but became an invitation-only event for three-year-olds in 1981. It boasts prize money of $1,000,000 USD. The Jockey Club Gold Cup is the main event of the fall meeting at Belmont Park. It is traditionally the event in which successful horses from the U.S. Triple Crown series meet their elders for the first time on a weight-for-age basis. In recent years it has suffered from the ever-increasing dominance of the Breeders’ Cup races. The Kentucky Oaks is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old fillies held at Churchill Downs over a distance of just over a mile. The Man o’ War Stakes takes place at Belmont Park in July and is open to horses of three-years-old and upward. It is a serious trial for the Breeders’ Cup Turf and often attracts top European horses.

The Pacific Classic Stakes is run over a mile and a quarter in August at Del Mar Racetrack in California and is one of the top prizes for older horses racing in the United States. One of the most famous runnings of the race was in 1996 when Cigar failed in his attempt to beat Citation’s record of 16 straight victories. Hall of Fame Jockey Julie Krone become the first lady rider to win a million-dollar race when she partnered Candy Ride to victory in a track record time in 2003. The Santa Anita Derby is run in April at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California with a purse of $1 million. Seven Santa Anita Derby winners have gone on to win the Kentucky Derby and it is still regarded as an important trial. The Santa Anita Handicap takes place in early March at Santa Anita Park and is a Grade I race for horses of four years old and upward. The horse most famously associated with the race was Seabiscuit who was beaten into second in 1937 and 1938.

He suffered what was believed to be a career-ending injury while being prepared for the 1939 renewal but returned in 1940 to win what turned out to be his last race. The Travers Stakes is held at Saratoga Racecourse in Saratoga Springs, New York. The race is the highlight of the summer meeting at Saratoga with the 143rd running taking place in 2012. Horse Racing Tickets | 2016-17 Top Horse Races QView Horse Racing Tickets Information When it comes to horse racing no term grabs the attention of spectators like that of the Triple Crown. With the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes paving the way for this historic feat, the three races are some of the biggest tickets in the sporting world. Currently sitting at an average ticket price of $425, the 2016 Kentucky Derby has already created a buzz as fans look to witness the next piece of history in horse racing. As the event draws nearer the average ticket price is likely to increase with ticket demand as just a month before the 2015 Derby ticket averages jumped significantly to $866.

The second leg of the Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes, has traditionally held a fairly stable average ticket price over time. While last year’s average ticket price of $135 was a three-year low for the race it was much closer to the 2012 average of $140. The third and final leg of the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes, is usually the most affected in regards to average ticket prices by the outcomes of the “Race for the Roses” and “The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans”. Prior to last year’s run by American Pharoah to win the first two legs of the Triple Crown, Belmont Stakes average ticket price was $275. After California Chrome’s win in the Preakness Stakes the average ticket price of the Belmont Stakes rose by nearly 50% to an average of $408. This price was more than 350% higher than the $87 average of the 2012 Belmont Stakes when there was no possibility of a Triple Crown winner. Ticket prices based on averages as of May 19, 2016 About Us Looking for a great deal?

Email: 2017 Kentucky Derby Tickets, Hotels, Travel Packages Planning Your Kentucky Derby Trip Kentucky Oaks start time is 5:45pm ET. Kentucky Derby start time is 6:24pm ET. Churchill Downs gates open at 8:00am. The first post each day is at 10:30am. Plan your Kentucky Derby Experience to be the perfect combination of history and horse racing excitement during the famous Derby Weekend in Louisville, Kentucky. Arriving in the beautiful state of Kentucky, guests will quickly notice the rolling hills of the Blue Grass Country and peaceful scenery of the many horse farms that line the city borders. Churchill Downs race track is located in Louisville, Kentucky in the heart of the Midwest of the United States of America. The city also sits on the banks of the scenic Ohio River. The Kentucky Derby is considered the most famous Thoroughbred Racing event in the world. In addition to the race, the Kentucky Derby Festival provides entertainment for race fans for the 2 weeks leading up to the race. Held annually on the first Saturday in May, the Derby is known as “the most exciting 2 minutes in sports.” Walking into Churchill Downs is like walking back into the past.

Cobblestone walkways line the exterior corridors. The architecture of the track transports you to a time gone past. Men dressed in suits wearing straw hats, and ladies wearing fine dresses and elaborate hats, complete the atmosphere of timeless charm. Even the official drink of the Derby, the Mint Julep, is a salute to a bygone era. The beautiful track features famous seating areas and multiple hospitality options to create the ultimate Kentucky Derby weekend trip. The most expensive tickets to the Derby are in the famed “Millionaire’s Row”, which is typically where celebrities come to watch the race. The best value tickets are in the First Floor grandstand sections, however you will not be able to see around the entire track from this vantage point. Higher sections providing better views include the 2nd Floor Grandstand and 3rd Floor Clubhouse. Several areas on the 3rd Floor have covered roofs that protect from the weather. The cheapest Derby tickets are in the general admission area called the Infield. This area is known for it's non-stop party atmosphere. There are no seats in the infield and there is no protection from the weather. Sports Traveler offers two lodging locations in our Kentucky Derby travel packages. Planning your Derby trip starts with deciding where to stay.

Louisville offers lodging closest to Churchill Downs, but this convenience does come at a higher hotel rate cost. While visiting Louisville, travelers can visit the legendary Louisville Slugger Museum and the Frazier International History Museum where the life and ideals of Muhammad Ali can be explored. Staying in Lexington offers Derby travelers a cheaper hotel lodging price and the opportunity to explore the "Blue Grass Country" filled with equine history, bourbon distilleries, and horse farm tour opportunities. Let Sports Traveler plan your trip to the Kentucky Derby. We specialize in Kentucky Derby Tickets, Travel Packages, Transportation, and VIP Derby Experiences for all budgets. Your Best Resource for Sports Travel Sports Traveler is a member of BBB Illinois, the National Tour Association (NTA), American Bus Association (ABA), and is an ASTA Top Tour Operator. All purchases are 100% guaranteed and backed by our fulfillment promise!

Kentucky Derby at VegasInsider.com, The Leader in Sportsbook and Gaming Information - Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Derby Results, Kentucky Derby Winners Distance: 1Â¼ miles (10 furlongs) Track: Dirt, Left-handed Weight: Colt/Gelding: 126 lbs (57.2 kg) Filly: 121 lbs. (54.9 kg) Purse: US$2 million, 1st $1,425,000 Number of Horses In Race The field is limited to 20 horses. Derby Information The Kentucky Derby is the most famous horse race in the United States. It's always run on the first Saturday in May and is often called "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" or "The Run for the Roses." The race takes place at Churchill Downs Racetrack from Louisville, Kentucky and features the top three-year-old horses in the world. Past Winners Archive Nyquist captured the Kentucky Derby in 2016 as the 2/1 betting favorite.

The colt won by 1 1/4 lengths in a time of 2:01.31 and was ridden by jockey Mario Gutierrez and trained by Doug O'Neill. The Derby victory for Espinoza was his second overall and also the second win for O'Neill in the first jewel as well. Check out all the past winners. Kentucky Derby Odds The odds for the Kentucky Derby are created by Churchill Downs oddsmaker Mike Battaglia. The official morning-line odds are announced after the post positions for the field have been set, which is normally announced on Wednesday before Saturday's race. Prior to the draw, gamblers can check out fixed odds at various betting shops. Click Here to Get Started If youâre new to betting on horses, then be sure to get all the details on the most basic terms that youâll be sure to hear at the racetrack. Also, find out how to read the odds, plus stay abreast with the latest types of races and their surfaces.

Horse racing-California Chrome wins 140th Kentucky Derby Horse racing-California Chrome wins 140th Kentucky Derby Tweet Share Victor Espinoza aboard California Chrome (5) celebrates after winning the 2014 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports More (Reuters) - California Chrome won the 140th Kentucky Derby in brilliant fashion at a bright and sunny Churchill Downs on Saturday, adding another fairytale chapter to America's most famous and revered horse race. Perfectly ridden by Victor Espinoza, the three-year-old colt pinned back his ears and sprinted clear of his rivals to win the $2.2 million classic by one and a quarter lengths. Commanding Curve, one of the longshots in the 19-horse field, charged home late to finish second while Danza battled on for third but no-one came close to catching the winner. Unbeaten in four starts this season, California Chrome started as the 5-2 favorite after romping to victories in each of his four previous races, including last month's Santa Anita Derby, that was one of the key lead-up events to the Run for the Roses.

And he lived up to all expectations with a breathtaking display of acceleration, breaking nicely from the barrier and sitting third until the field turned for home. As they made their way round the bend, California Chrome made his move, bursting into the lead before the shadows of the iconic twin spires as the crowd of almost 165,000 let out a mighty roar. His 77-year-old trainer Art Sherman became the oldest man to train the winner of the Kentucky Derby. Sherman had never even had a runner in the Derby before but was an exercise rider for Swaps when he won the race in 1955. "Words can't describe how I feel right now," Sherman said at the victory presentation. "This means a whole lot to me." For Mexican-born jockey Victor Espinoza, it was his second win in the Derby after he saluted on War Emblem in 2002. The 41-year-old showed his experience with a cool and calculated ride, keeping his mount out of harm's way before unleashing him in the stretch. "I really don't mess with him too much," Espinoza said.

"I just let him enjoy himself around the race track and stretch his legs." California Chrome became just the fourth horse from the Golden State to win the Derby, with a classic rags to riches tale that has endeared him to the American racing public. He was bred for just $10,000, a pittance in a sport where regally-bred horses change hands for millions of dollars, by two men who were new to the race game but took a gamble on a mare that no-one else wanted and got a foal of extraordinary talent. And the dream may not be over yet with co-owner Steve Coburn immediately declaring California Chrome would go for the Triple Crown, the holy grail of U.S. racing. "I think we're in a pretty good place now," Coburn said. "Our guardian angels have been pretty good to us." (Reporting by Julian Linden in New York; editing by Gene Cherry) Reblog Kentucky Derby Tickets Kentucky Derby Tickets Back to Top The Kentucky Derby average ticket price for the 2017 annual race has fluctuated slightly and stayed in the higher price range, never going below $300 ticket price over the recent six years.

The largest increase came in 2015 with an increase of 38%, moving from a $349 average ticket price from the previous year to a $481 average price. Average Kentucky Derby ticket prices experienced little to no change in 2015 and 2016 with the price changing from $481 to $480. The Kentucky Derby is seeing a significantly lower price as the 2017 prestigious race approaches at an average $306, a 36% decrease, this is subject to change as the event nears in May. (Data updated 11/11/2016) How to Buy Kentucky Derby Tickets 1. Scan through the 2017 Kentucky Derby Schedule and select the game that you would like to attend, or use the opponent or date filters beside the Kentucky Derby ticket listings to find the perfect matchup. 2. Click “Select” to reveal all available Kentucky Derby tickets, the Churchill Downs interactive seating chart, ticket quantity, and ticket price filters. Use the ticket price filter, and ticket quantity filter to quickly refine your search to the available Kentucky Derby tickets that are in your price range.

You can also utilize the “eTickets Only” filter to find all Kentucky Derby tickets that will be delivered electronically. The Churchill Downs interactive map can be employed to reveal all tickets available for a preferred section. Select the perfect tickets and click “Go” to proceed to checkout. 3. Review the checkout page to ensure that the Kentucky Derby tickets have been selected, and read through any ticket notes or delivery information. If everything looks correct, fill out the checkout information, and purchase your Kentucky Derby Tickets! Need help finding the right Kentucky Derby Tickets? Our Sales and our Service team are available 7 days a week at 1-800-880-8886. 2017 Kentucky Derby Preview The 2017 Kentucky Derby is set to hit Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 6, 2016, and will mark the 143rd Run for the Roses for one of the most prestigious events that feature the best thoroughbreds in the world. As the Kentucky Derby approaches, horse racing aficionados will be watching for a Triple Crown favorite to win in 2017, after it was not accomplished in 2016.

A number of favorites will be featured on the field at the 2017 Kentucky Derby, with four standing out. Shackin Up, Tricky One, Bode’s Dream and You Know Too are the top contenders as the running for the Triple Crown begins in Louisville. No matter which horse wins, this one of a kind event will bring fans from all over ready to sip their Mint Juleps and feature their lavish hats. Get your Kentucky Derby Ticker and don’t miss this event! The Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs Address: 700 Central Ave. Louisville, Kentucky, 40208 Churchill Downs is located in south Louisville west of Churchill park at interstate 65. Churchill Downs usually seats 50,000 however, crowds during the derby sometimes exceed 150,000 as additional seating areas are opened to accommodate the event. New to the event in 2014 is a new high-definition screen which will sit on the backstretch the outside of the track and face the grandstand and infield. Officials claim it will be the largest high-definition video screen ever constructed.

Infield General Admission The area provides a fun large-party atmosphere and is an inexpensive way to attend the event but not the best views of the race. The Infield Club provide access to a VIP lounge area that features cocktail service, half-price menu items, large screen TV’s and monitors at each table along with private betting window and executive bathrooms. The Grandstands Comprised of sections 120-128 (1st Floor Grandstand), 212, 218-228 (Grandstand Mezzanine/Plaza Balcony), and 322-328 (3rd Floor Grandstand) and are divided into three levels. The Grandstand Terrance level is closest to the track. The better seats in these sections are closer to the finish line and are the lower number sections (120, 218, 322). The Clubhouse Levels Comprised of sections 110-117 (1st Floor Clubhouse), 2nd Floor Clubhouse and 312-321 (3rd Floor Clubhouse). The Kentucky Derby Clubhouse level tickets are a great place to sit close to the finish line.

1st Floor Clubhouse tickets get you seats that are so close enough to the track to feel the ground as the horses run by. Tickets to section 120 grant you access to the 3rd Floor Clubhouse. 3rd Floor Clubhouse Level tickets provide great views of the entire track and are among the best seats at Churchill Downs. Some 3rd floor clubhouse seats are fully covered, including rows D and higher. Rows A-B are not covered, while row C is partially covered. The sections closest to the finish line are 116,117, 218, 316, 317 and 318. Our pick for the best seats at the Kentucky Derby here are in section 316. Kentucky Derby Suites There is a large selection of suites at Churchill downs, TicketCity offers tickets and can help ensure you have ultimate Kentucky Derby experience. We offer tickets for the Jockey Club Suites, 5th Floor Finish Line Suites, Interior Premium Boxes and the Matt Winn Room (reserved tables). Suites can fit about 24 people and come with full catering, private wagering and balconies that provide a perfect view of the action.

Millionaires Row & Skye Terrace Millionaires Row (4th Floor & 6th Floor) provide a luxurious and celebrity-filled Kentucky Derby experience. A table here provides a great vantage point to watch the races via personal monitors or from the 4 tiered balcony. The Skye Terrance is adjacent to Millionaires row and offers the same amenities but a more traditional experience. Churchill Downs Seating Chart Back to Top What day is the 2017 Kentucky Derby? The upcoming Kentucky Derby will take place on May 6, 2017. Every year the Kentucky Derby takes place on the first Saturday in May. Where is the Kentucky Derby? The annual Kentucky Derby event will take place at the historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. What time do the gates at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby? Churchill Downs open at 8am EST for the day. The post time for the first race at 10:30a EST. Is there a dress code at Churchill Downs? There are some restrictions in a few areas.

Sneakers, athletic apparel, denim/jeans or shorts are not permitted in the Trophy Room, Turf Club, Finish Line Suites, Jocky Club Suites, Aristides Room, Stakes Room, Turf Suites, Section 111 Trophy Suites, Trackside Village or in Millionaires Row. Additionally, worn/torn/frayed garments, collarless shirts, tank tops and bare midriff are never allowed in any reserved seating areas. The infield areas are much more casual with jeans, shorts, t-shirts, polo shirts and casual dresses all being acceptable. How can I buy cheap Kentucky Derby tickets? TicketCity offers a huge selection of Kentucky Derby tickets that include some of the lowest price tickets on the market. Kentucky Derby ticket prices fluctuate based on the demand. When there are well-known horses in the race or horses expected to compete for the triple crown, prices will increase. The opposite might occur if there are not as many popular horses participating in the race, give the chance to get cheap Derby tickets. TicketCity at the Kentucky Derby Every year TicketCity has a local presence at the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks to assist our clients with ticket pickup and additional purchases.

As the weekends' events draw near, our sales associates are available for personal assistance as needed. Kentucky Derby Preview History Back to Top 2016 Kentucky Derby Preview The 2016 Kentucky Derby is set to hit Churchill Downs on Saturday May 7th, 2016 and will be the 142nd Run for the Roses. New at the 2016 Kentucky Derby, is the new starting gate lounge, which offers fans at Churchill Downs, views of both the iconic Twin Spires, and the racetrack, while positioned directly along the homestretch. The Starting Gate Lounge is just one of the many luxury seating options available at Churchill Downs for the 2016 Kentucky Derby. As always, the Kentucky Derby will feature a field of the top thoroughbred horses in the world, as they vie for a chance to win the Triple Crown of Horse racing. One of the favorites to bring home the 2016 Run For the Roses, will be Mor Spirit, who has an impressive progeny, which includes Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew. Other top contenders for the 2016 Kentucky Derby include Gun Runner, Nyquist, and Danzing Candy.

There is nothing quite like seeing the Kentucky Derby live, and the 142 Run for the Roses will have Churchill Downs packed and brimming with excitement. 2015 Kentucky Derby Preview The 2015 Kentucky Derby is set to hit Churchill Downs on May 2nd. 2015 will mark the 141st Run for the Roses and will feature a field of the best thoroughbreds in the world. As always, the quest for horse racing’s illusive Triple Crown begins in Louisville. The field at the 2015 Kentucky Derby will feature a number of favorites, with three standing out. American Pharoah, Dortmund, and Carpe Diem have all been on a tear in 2015 and look to come into the 2015 Kentucky Derby with the best odds of bringing home the roses. Other top contenders should include International Star, Firing Line, and Mubtaahij. No matter which horse wins, the 141st Kentucky Derby should be one of the best in the history of the event and is once again the pinnacle of the horse racing world.

2013 Kentucky Derby Preview The road to Derby 139 is coming to an end cementing the world's top 20 Thoroughbreds into the greatest two minutes in sports. Since late September at the Juddmonte Royal Lodge to the end of April at the Derby Trail 3-year old Thoroughbreds have been thundering around tracks all over the country in hopes of securing a spot among the greatest horses the world has ever seen at the 2013 Kentucky Derby. Sitting atop the Derby leaderboard is the stamina infused homebred from Stuart Janney III & Phipps Stable, Orb. Orb has an extremely strong pedigree for 1 ¼ miles that he acquired from his dam, Lady Liberty and his sire, Malibu Moon. The Bay Colt secured a Derby berth with two first place finishes at Fasig-Tipton Fountain of Youth and the Florida Derby earlier this year. Orb’s Jockey, Joel Rosario, will be making his second Derby appearance after finishing fourth in the 2010 Derby aboard Make Music for Me. Trotting in at a close second atop the Derby leaderboards is Verrazano.

The 3-year old Bay Colt came by way of More Than Ready -- Enchanted Rock, a pedigree that is laden with quality. Verrazano obtained an aggressive amount of speed from his sire, More Than Ready, but will be relying on his dam’s side of the pedigree to stretch that speed for 1 ¼ miles. Fortunately, Verrazano’s top mount has had his fair share of Derby experience including a victory at the 2011 Kentucky Derby atop Animal Kingdom. John Velazquez will be making his 14th appearance at the Derby with hopes that Verrazano is yet another potential contender. Potentially the most star destined Derby contender, Goldencents has a story unlike any horse on the leaderboards. The Colts owner, Rick Pitino, is also the head coach of the National Champion Louisville Cardinals. In a year that has already gotten him a visit to the Hall of Fame and a National Title, Rick Pitino could potentially own Derby 139’s winner. Unfortunatly, Goldencents pedigree is not as star-lighted as his owner’s history.

A first place finish at Santa Anita’s 1 1/8 mile derby cemented his spot in the Kentucky Derby but Goldencents aptitude for the 1 ¼ mile may prove to be his Achilles heel. Though the Colt’s immediate family, Into Misschief & Golden Works, lacks any noteworthy performers there is light at the end of the tunnel as Goldencents line did produce the 1983 Kentucky Derby winner Sunny’s Halo. With the Derby Trails still to be ran before the "Run for the Roses" is set in stone some other likely Derby contenders include Java's War, Overanalyze, and Revolutionary. All three Thoroughbreds are sporting pedigree's that make them a strong candidate for the stamina it takes to survive the Derby. Normandy Invasion, Oxbow, and Vyjack are also sitting among the expert picks as favorites in the race but as Derby fans all over the world know anything is possible at Churchill Downs when it's the Kentucky Derby. 2010 Kentucky Derby Preview With the Kentucky Derby set to take place on May 1, equestrians, socialites and sports fans in general will be donning their lavish hats, sipping Mint Juleps and taking in the electrifying atmosphere at Churchill Downs.

It seems like every year there's some unique occurrence that makes the Kentucky Derby a memorable event to the fans who crowed the grandstand and the infield. Just last year, more than 150,000 horse racing aficionados filled the stands to watch Mine that Bird mount an astonishing comeback to finish with the largest margin of victory in more than 60 years. Those cheering for Mine that Bird were taken on a rollercoaster ride as the horse placed dead last coming out of the first turn, only to shift into a higher gear and take jockey Calvin Borel to first place in the final furlong of the race. Completing a comeback that will be firmly cemented in Derby lore, Mine that Bird became the longest-odds horse to win the storied event in more than eight decades. The 2010 Kentucky Derby will raise the stakes. The horse Eskendereya has been the betting odds favorite after recent dominating wins. Featuring the highest ever purse for a last-place finish, this year's race is guaranteed to draw a field of top competing horses and hordes of excited fans. Get your Kentucky Derby Tickets today and don't miss this event!

Kentucky Derby News Epsom Derby History - Epsom Downs © racing-images.co.uk In 1776, ‘Gentleman’ Johnny Burgoyne, a soldier, playwright and politician who married into the Derby family and had leased his Surrey mansion, the Oaks, to the 12th Earl of Derby, Edward Smith- Stanley, urged his friend to introduce a race for three-year-old fillies over a mile and a half to emulate old comrade in arms Anthony St Leger, founder of the St Leger at Doncaster . Three years later, on May 14, 1779, the Downs above the spa town of Epsom, hosted the initial Oaks and, appropriately, Lord Derby’s Bridget collected victory’s spoils. At a celebratory party that evening, Burgoyne proposed, because the Oaks was such a great success, a similar race should be founded for both colts and fillies. Sir Charles Bunbury, a distinguished figure in the world of horseracing, was behind the concept of racing over a mile or a mile and a half. Legend has it that Bunbury and Derby discussed the possibility and all that was left to do was name the race.

Apparently, it was the toss of a coin in the latter’s favour that secured the race title, which lives on as strongly as ever. On May 4, 1780, the inaugural Derby Stakes was run for £1,065 15s. Despite losing the flip of the coin, Bunbury got some compensation when Diomed carried his pink and white silks to success. Lord Derby had to wait until 1787 before he saw his colours triumph in the Classic, when the previously unraced Sir Peter Teazle scored under Sam Arnull. Sir Peter Teazle was retired to stud in October, 1789, and developed into a great sire. By the middle of the 19th century, the Derby had established itself as the most important race of the year in Britain, with many thousands flocking to Epsom Downs where there was also a huge fair. Traditionally run on the first Wednesday in June, but now on the first Saturday of the month, the British Parliament did not sit on Derby Day such was the importance of the premier Classic.

Copies were spawned around the world and there are well over 200 different Derbys, some very illustrious like the Kentucky Derby - America’s most famous race – and others less so. After the American Civil War, the Kentucky Thoroughbred industry experienced hard times and Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark represented a group interested in reviving racing in the state. He travelled to England and France in 1872 to study European horseracing. While in England, Colonel Clark saw the famous Epsom Derby and, when he returned to Louisville, he made plans to create a race like the one he had witnessed. The first Kentucky Derby was run at Churchill Downs in 1875. The fact that the Kentucky Derby takes place on dirt rather than turf and over 10 rather than 12 furlongs on the first Saturday in May does not diminish the sense of flattery towards Epsom Downs. The name Derby was used in America and many other countries to denote the best race for three-year-olds.

Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey has been the stage for the premier British Classic, except during both World Wars (1915-1918, 1940-1945) when the course was used to house prisoners of war. A substitute race, the New Derby, was staged at Newmarket instead. The Derby, a supreme challenge for threeyear- olds over the unique undulating track and a mile and a half, remains one of the most prestigious Flat races in the world and is the richest race for that age group in Europe, as well as being Britain’s richest offering, with a prize fund of at least £1,325,000. There is a hugely illustrious roll of honour, which includes Bay Middleton, Ormonde, Isinglass, Hyperion and Bahram, while the last 50 years alone have seen such luminaries prevail as Sea-Bird, Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Shergar, Nashwan, Generous, Lammtarra, Galileo, High Chaparral, New Approach , Sea The Stars , Workforce and Camelot .

Such names contribute to the Derby’s rich history, partly through their outstanding performances over Epsom Downs but also, for some, through their legacy as top stallions. Galileo, European champion sire in 2008 thanks largely to his Derby winner New Approach and Coronation Cup victor Soldier Of Fortune and again in 2010, 2011 & 2012, demonstrated his prowess over the course as recently as 2001. There is an undoubted crescendo towards the first Saturday in June that commences with a lively ante-post market up a year before the race and helps sustain interest through the winter and into the spring. Then the Classic trials get under way and the hopes and dreams of owners, trainers, jockeys, racegoers and punters are either encouraged or dashed as Derby Day approaches. Derby Day draws the biggest infield crowd of any raceday each year in Britain and the sense of occasion is palpable.

There is a huge roar of anticipation as the runners break from the stalls and make their way uphill to the highest point of the course, over 500 feet above sea level, before sweeping down and around Tattenham Corner to enter the straight where the finish is fought out. The Investec Derby is one of five British Classics, the others being the Investec Oaks , QIPCO 1000 Guineas (Newmarket), QIPCO 2000 Guineas (Newmarket) and Ladbrokes St Leger (Doncaster). The last two, along with the Investec Derby, make up the British Triple Crown which 15 horses have achieved, starting with West Australian in 1853 and most recently Nijinsky in 1970. Camelot went close in 2012, winning the first two legs and then finishing the St Leger runner-up.

Question: The most famous horse race in the USA, the Kentucky Derby, is traditionally run on the first Saturday of which month ?
Answer: MAY