all in Lifestyle

Whenever a horse crosses the finish line first in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve, the first person you’ll see and hear a reaction from is the person on their back.

The jockey usually gets much of the credit — and sometimes the blame — for a horse’s finish on the racetrack. They are also the ones who decide where to position their horses in a race, when to make their move for the lead, and what path to take in doing it.

A new sound will ring from the Oaklawn winner’s circle this weekend: the peal from a bell emblazoned with, “This bell rings for the love and respect of the horse.” Recently installed, a winning connection who dedicates a portion of the purse to aftercare is invited to ring it.

The 148th edition of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve will be held May 7 under the Twin Spires at Churchill Downs, and when the starting gates open shortly before 7 p.m. ET as many as 20 Thoroughbreds will be all business as they run the most important race of their lives.

But have you ever wondered what are these horses like when they’re not on the track?

The 2022 Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve is 11 days away, and media coverage of preparations for North America’s signature race is ramping up. Whether you’re tuning in on TV, radio, or via computer or mobile device, a variety of shows are on the schedule offering race previews, features, handicapping tips, and other content leading up to the run for the roses.

Where Mark Allen goes, so goes 2009 Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird.

While most other Derby winners are whisked away to stud after their racing careers, gelding Mine That Bird has remained in the lives of co-owners Allen and Leonard "Doc" Blach since his 2009 lightning strike in Louisville, Ky., and 2010 retirement from racing.

newsletter sign-up

Stay up-to-date with the best from America's Best Racing!

Request Information

Please fill out the form below to request information about race horse ownership.

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube