The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race — it’s an American institution. First held in 1875 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, the Derby is the longest continuously run sporting event in the United States. Each year on the first Saturday in May, the nation’s top three-year-old Thoroughbreds compete in this 1¼-mile race, the first leg of the Triple Crown. Over its long history, the Kentucky Derby has earned nicknames like “The Run for the Roses” (for the blanket of red roses draped over the winner) and “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” (for its approximate duration). The race’s rich heritage is intertwined with a set of traditions and a festive atmosphere that make Derby Day a unique spectacle.
One of the most visible Derby traditions is the extravagant fashion on display, particularly the hats. Attending the Derby often means dressing in Southern spring finery; women don ornate, oversized hats and men sport stylish suits or seersucker ensembles. Sipping a mint julep — the event’s signature drink made of bourbon, sugar, and mint served over crushed ice — is a must for many spectators as they wander the grounds or socialize in the grandstands. Shortly before the horses go to the starting gate, the crowd of over 150,000 will sing along to “My Old Kentucky Home,” a tradition that has been a Derby staple for decades, evoking a sense of local pride and nostalgia. When the horses parade in front of the clubhouse, you’ll also hear the call of “Riders Up!” as the jockeys receive the command to mount their horses, another cherished moment during the pre-race pageantry.
The Derby’s pageantry is matched by its prestige. Winning the Kentucky Derby confers instant fame on the horse, jockey, trainer, and owner. Names like Secretariat, Citation, and more recently American Pharoah and Justify (who both went on to Triple Crown glory) are etched in Derby lore. The race has produced countless stories: from the longest shot ever to win (Donerail at 91-1 odds in 1913) to dominant champions who set records (Secretariat’s Derby record time of 1:59.4 in 1973 stands unmatched). Even in challenging times, the Derby has persisted—during World War II, the race continued without interruption (the 1945 Derby was delayed by only a month due to wartime restrictions), demonstrating its resilience and importance.
Beyond the race itself, the Derby is a major social and betting event. It attracts casual fans who might only watch one horse race a year, as well as veteran handicappers studying the Daily Racing Form. Wagering on the Derby is part of the excitement, with tens of millions of dollars bet on the race each year by people at the track and via simulcast around the country. Many throw Derby parties at home, complete with themed decorations and friendly betting pools, making it a nationwide celebration.
The Kentucky Derby’s enduring appeal lies in this blend of sport and tradition. It’s the thrill of seeing elite racehorses thunder down the stretch combined with the mint juleps, the roses, and the roaring chorus of fans. No matter who wins, each Derby adds a new chapter to a story that has been unfolding for over a century, solidifying its place as a cherished piece of Americana and a crown jewel of horse racing.