The 150th running of the Grade 1 Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve at Churchill Downs is less than two weeks away. The field for the historic 1 1/4-mile contest is more or less set, and handicappers are already analyzing the prospective entries in search of the Derby winner.
The Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve is not only the most anticipated, most watched Thoroughbred race in the world but an essential part of American sports culture.
Memories are made with each run for the roses that over the passage of time become legend, not only to day-to-day followers of horse racing but to the general public.
Few horses touched the heart like the Black Gold did. Thanks to Marguerite Henry’s 1957 book, this black colt with the little white star was a childhood favorite of generations of racing fans, his triumphant, yet tragic life a poignant reminder of why we love this sport and its equine athletes.
The journey from the first Kentucky Derby to the 150th has included its share of influential names, men and women who have left their mark on the country’s most famous race.