The 148th Kentucky Derby took place in the legendary Churchill Downs racetrack on Saturday, May 7 and the winner was Rich Strike. The next race of the triple crown is Preakness Stakes which will took place on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. The winner was Early Voting. The third and final race is Belmont Stakes is on Saturday, June 11 at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York.

 

Where to Watch the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes

Don’t miss out on any of the races with coverage spanning several networks including:

USA Network

NBC

FS2

Find Belmont Stakes on DIRECTV.

About Kentucky Derby

The well-established thoroughbred race has been an annual tradition since 1875 in Louisville, Kentucky. It represents the first leg of the American Triple Crown and is followed by Preakness Stakes Belmont Stakes.

More than just horse racing, the Kentucky Derby is also one of the signature fashion events of the year known for its fancy hats and colorful garb alongside other well established traditions. This year’s event is anticipating more than 150,000 attendees, all eager to witness “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports.” Whether you’re attending in person or hosting your own Derby Party, find the Kentucky Derby schedule, frequently asked questions and fun facts below. “Riders up!”

Although there is much fanfare, celebration and festivities at the two other events of the triple crown, the Kentucky Derby is the most well known and attended. 

 

The Horses at Belmont Stakes

  • We the People
  • Mo Donegal
  • Rich Strike
  • Creative Minister
  • Nest
  • Barber Road
  • Golden Glider
  • Skippylongstocking

 

The Horses at Preakness Stakes

  • Epicenter
  • Early Voting *
  • Secret Oath
  • Simplification
  • Creative Minister
  • Armagnac
  • Skippylongstocking
  • Happy Jack
  • Fenwick

 

Kentucky Derby Schedule

Although the races may go fast, the Kentucky Derby is surrounded by many events, festivities and other races, ensuring it’s a full day affair. 

 

The Horses at the Kentucky Derby

The odds are ever evolving as are the horses’ positions, but here are the twenty thoroughbreds who will be running at Churchill Downs during the Derby and other races.

  • Mo Donegal
  • Happy Jack
  • Epicenter
  • Summer Is Tomorrow
  • Smile Happy
  • Messier
  • Crown Pride (JPN)
  • Charge It
  • Tiz the Bomb
  • Zandon
  • Pioneer of Medina           
  • Taiba
  • Simplification
  • Barber Road
  • White Abarrio    
  • Cyberknife
  • Classic Causeway
  • Tawny Port
  • Zozos
  • Ethereal Road
  • Rich Strike *

 

Kentucky Derby Traditions

As with most historic events, the Kentucky Derby has many traditions that are still celebrated today. Explore some of the most commonly followed rituals.

Mint Julep: Containing bourbon, mint and sugar syrup, this refreshing iced alcoholic beverage is the official drink of the race and often served in a silver julep cup.

Roses: The winner of the Kentucky Derby is draped in a blanket of 554 red roses, and the fragrant flower has become the official flower of the event and inspired its nickname, “Run for the Roses®”

Song: When the horses enter the track, a rendition of “My Old Kentucky Home” is played by full marching band who are often joined by the full crowd.

Kentucky Derby Hats: Synonymous with the event itself, the showy hats that most women choose to don are part of the spectacle.

 

Top Kentucky Derby Questions

When is the Kentucky Derby?

The 148th Kentucky Derby will take place on May 7, 2022.

What time does the Kentucky derby start?

The first event of the day will start at approximately 10:30 a.m. ET.

What channel is the Kentucky Derby on?

You can watch Kentucky Derby coverage on USA Network, NBC and FS2.

How long is the Kentucky Derby?

Although the races are very quick, the Kentucky Derby is a whole day affair.

Who won the Kentucky Derby 2021?

The 2021 Kentucky Derby winner was:

1st place – Mandaloun
Trainer: B. Cox
Jockey: F. Geroux

 

Latest Kentucky Derby Tweets

 

 

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