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About the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown series for 3-year-old Thoroughbreds. Held each year at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on the first Saturday in May, the track has presented the race continuously since 1875. The Derby is run at the distance of 1 1/4 miles and is arguably the most famous horse race in the world.
Horses compete in the Kentucky Derby after qualifying through a series of preparatory races known as the Road to the Kentucky Derby. These stakes races are held at racetracks across the country and award Derby qualifying points to the top four finishers. The Derby starters are comprised of the horses with the most qualifying points, with two of the 20 spots reserved for the top qualifiers from the European and Japanese Road to the Derby qualifying events.
The Kentucky Derby has many traditions, including drinking mint juleps, wearing festive hats, and singing "My Old Kentucky Home" as the horses enter the track. Its sister race, the Kentucky Oaks, exclusively for 3-year-old fillies, takes place the day before the Kentucky Derby, on the first Friday in May. Both Oaks Day and Derby Day are treated as local holidays in Louisville.
The horse who wins the Kentucky Derby receives a blanket of red roses, the official flower of the Kentucky Derby. The race is commonly referred to as the “Run for the Roses.”
The winning horse becomes the only horse eligible to complete that year's Triple Crown, by running in and winning the two other legs of the series. The middle "jewel" is the Preakness Stakes two weeks later at Pimilco Race Course in Baltimore, and the final leg is the Belmont Stakes three weeks after the Preakness at Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y.
Top Kentucky Derby News
-
Kentucky Derby: Baffert calls it 'the most crazy 30 minutes I’ve had in racing'
Marty McGee Sep 6, 2020 -
Kentucky Derby handle, viewership down more than 50 percent
Matt Hegarty Sep 7, 2020 -
Kentucky Derby: Authentic turns back Tiz the Law to give Baffert record-tying sixth victory
Marty McGee Sep 5, 2020 -
Great expectations evaporate into disappointment for the Sackatoga team
Nicole Russo Sep 5, 2020 -
Kentucky Derby 2020 payouts
DRF Staff Sep 5, 2020
Derby Watch
Comments by Jay Privman and Marty McGee
- designates Keeneland sale graduate
Post
Horse/
Best Beyer
Trainer/
Jockey
McGee
Odds
JP: Easier spots seem more suitable at this stage of career. Had plenty of shots to show if he's up to this. Hasn't yet.
MM: One-eyed colt is a good story and everything, but his latest efforts suggest he's in for a struggle Saturday.
Trainer:
Steve Asmussen
Jockey:
Ricardo Santana, Jr.
Owner:
George E. Hall and Sport BLX Thoroughbreds
Sire:
Honor Code
JP: Ran on decently in Travers. He's a better horse than I thought he was this spring, but still a cut below the best.
MM: Honest colt has trained forwardly over local surface; still, he's gotta find quite a few lengths to catch TTL.
JP: Was very high on him earlier this year. Not sure he's progressed as much as hoped, but he'll love the 10 furlongs.
MM: Late-running gray would be one to benefit if the pace melts down, though he'll have to pass a whole lot of 'em.
Trainer:
Peter Eurton
Jockey:
Julien Leparoux
Owner:
David Bernsen, Exline-Border Racing, Dan Hudock, Susanna Wilson
Sire:
Court Vision
JP: The '19 divisional champ is winless in '20. Found new spark in turf debut … so is thrown back in with wolves.
MM: Reputation of the '19 BC Juvenile has taken hit after hit this year; rare turf-to-dirt angle is in play with him.
JP: Troubled trips in last pair. Definite use in bottom of gimmicks assuming he's taken back and makes one run.
MM: Bypassed ElP race to train into Derby for local connections high on his chances to at least hit the board.
JP: Should be fresh for first start in 4 months, think he'll try to take them as far as he can. Impacts pace for sure.
MM: Four swift breezes since he arrived here, but hard to see him putting away all the other speed and holding on.
Trainer:
Todd Pletcher
Jockey:
Javier Castellano
Owner:
Robert LaPenta and Bortolazzo Stable
Sire:
Candy Ride
JP: Has had one start in the past 5+ months, three starts overall, never has run in a stakes. Yep, ideal placement.
MM: 17th straight year (and 20 of last 21) with a Derby starter for Pletcher, but he won't even be here. Hmmm.
Trainer:
Bill Mott
Jockey:
Tyler Gaffalione
Owner:
Gary Barber, Wachtel Stable, Peter Deutsch, and Pantofel Stable
Sire:
Algorithms
JP: Could not have had a better trip in Travers, simply wasn't good enough. Grinding type won't mind distance.
MM: Like a few others, this one has been found wanting vs. elite types, but the owner(s) answered the Derby siren call.
Trainer:
W. Bret Calhoun
Jockey:
Gabriel Saez
Owner:
Allied Racing Stable
Sire:
Giant's Causeway
JP: Some excuses in Blue Grass; stumbled badly start, traffic backstretch, shuffled back near turn. Bomber for gimmicks.
MM: Owner made an 11th-hour audible in entering him after Am. Turf was original target; reaching for the stars.
Trainer:
Bob Baffert
Jockey:
Florent Geroux
Owner:
Albaugh Family Stables and Spendthrift Farm
Sire:
Pioneerof the Nile
JP: Went off form in spring, but seems like different horses lately with game win in Shared Belief, series of strong drills.
MM: Fla.-bred was a toss approaching a May 2 Derby; months later, however, he's rejuvenated and a real threat.
Trainer:
Chris Hartmann
Jockey:
Miguel Mena
Owner:
Raymond Daniels, Wayne Scherr and Will Harbut Racing LLC
Sire:
Hard Spun
JP: Has turned into a worthwhile claim, but he's going to have to step up to level he's never reached to be factor.
MM: Has never really threatened the best of the class, but the Derby's a bucket list item for his owners.
Trainer:
Patrick Biancone
Jockey:
Luca Panici
Owner:
Reeves Thoroughbred Racing and Andie Biancone
Sire:
Karakontie
JP: Races earlier this year were encouraging, but Belmont was dreadful -- added front wraps, dull. Hard to evaluate.
MM: Terrific winter/spring work by this gelding was soured by the Belmont no-show; stark form reversal required.
JP: Considering all the ground he lost in last start while facing a top Derby contender, that's his best race to date.
MM: No threat to Art Collector at Ellis, yet Dale will still try to come in the back door with this late-blooming colt.
Trainer:
Dallas Stewart
Jockey:
Joe Rocco, Jr.
Owner:
West Point Thoroughbreds and Pearl Racing
Sire:
Paynter
JP: Stewart has had Derby horses outperform, but this guy seems impossible to like. Needs easier, not this tough.
MM: Surely "an owner thing" has him on this list. West Point had a piece of Always Dreaming, so yeah, we get it.
Trainer:
Saffie Joseph, Jr.
Jockey:
Paco Lopez
Owner:
John Fanelli, Cash Is King Racing, Paul Braverman
Sire:
Cross Traffic
JP: Yet to knock off a big one, but not for lack of trying. Admire how he fires every time. Gave Authentic a scare.
MM: Gray colt now has run 5 solid races in as many starts since coming under the Saffie fold; honest and versatile.
JP: Distance of Derby far more suitable than Shared Belief. Capable of bouncing back big-time. He's a major player.
MM: Hot pace up front seems a key for this dangerous late runner, assuming he's ready to run his biggest race yet.
JP: Dominating performance in Travers, proven at Derby distance; strong recent works. Clearly the one to beat.
MM: Belmont/Travers winner looms one of the heaviest Derby favorites of the last 30 years; been flawless all year.
Trainer:
Bob Baffert
Jockey:
John Velazquez
Owner:
Spendthrift Farm, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables, and MyRaceHorse Stable
Sire:
Into Mischief
JP: Have been skeptical of ability beyond 1 1/8 miles but can't fault how he's trained for 5-time Derby winner Baffert.
MM: Easy gait carried him a long way in the Haskell, but then, uh-oh; Derby tempo likely to be far more testing.
Road to the Derby
Date
Race / Track / Distance
Winner / Beyer
Saturday,
Sep. 14, 2019
Iroquois
Churchill Downs, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Dennis' Moment
Beyer:
87
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Dennis' Moment 87
Dennis' Moment 87
Friday,
Sep. 27, 2019
American Pharoah
Santa Anita, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Eight Rings
Beyer:
87
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Eight Rings 87
Eight Rings 87
Saturday,
Oct. 5, 2019
Champagne
Belmont, 1 mile
Winner:
Tiz the Law
Beyer:
89
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Tiz the Law 89
Tiz the Law 89
Saturday,
Oct. 5, 2019
Breeders' Futurity
Keeneland, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Maxfield
Beyer:
86
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Maxfield 86
Maxfield 86
Friday,
Nov. 1, 2019
Breeders' Cup Juvenile
Santa Anita, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Storm the Court
Beyer:
87
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Storm the Court 87
Storm the Court 87
Saturday,
Nov. 30, 2019
Kentucky Jockey Club
Churchill Downs, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Silver Prospector
Beyer:
81
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Silver Prospector 81
Silver Prospector 81
Saturday,
Dec. 7, 2019
Remsen
Aqueduct, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Shotski
Beyer:
86
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Shotski 86
Shotski 86
Saturday,
Dec. 7, 2019
Los Alamitos Futurity
Los Alamitos, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Thousand Words
Beyer:
91
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Thousand Words 91
Thousand Words 91
Sunday,
Dec. 15, 2019
Springboard Mile
Remington, 1 mile
Winner:
Shoplifted
Beyer:
87
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Shoplifted 87
Shoplifted 87
Wednesday,
Jan. 1, 2020
Jerome
Aqueduct, 1 mile
Winner:
Independence Hall
Beyer:
83
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-3-3-1
Independence Hall 83
Independence Hall 83
Saturday,
Jan. 4, 2020
Sham
Santa Anita, 1 mile
Winner:
Authentic
Beyer:
90
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Authentic 90
Authentic 90
Saturday,
Jan. 18, 2020
Lecomte
Fair Grounds, 1 mile 70 yards
Winner:
Enforceable
Beyer:
89
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Enforceable 89
Enforceable 89
Friday,
Jan. 24, 2020
Smarty Jones
Oaklawn, 1 mile
Winner:
Gold Street
Beyer:
95
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Gold Street 95
Gold Street 95
Saturday,
Feb. 1, 2020
Robert B. Lewis
Santa Anita, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Thousand Words
Beyer:
92
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Thousand Words 92
Thousand Words 92
Saturday,
Feb. 1, 2020
Withers
Aqueduct, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Max Player
Beyer:
86
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Max Player 86
Max Player 86
Saturday,
Feb. 1, 2020
Holy Bull
Gulfstream, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Tiz the Law
Beyer:
100
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Tiz the Law 100
Tiz the Law 100
Saturday,
Feb. 8, 2020
Sam F. Davis
Tampa Bay, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Sole Volante
Beyer:
96
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Sole Volante 96
Sole Volante 96
Saturday,
Feb. 15, 2020
El Camino Real Derby
Golden Gate, 1 1/8 miles (AW)
Winner:
Azul Coast
Beyer:
74
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Azul Coast 74
Azul Coast 74
Saturday,
Feb. 15, 2020
Risen Star (1st division)
Fair Grounds, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Mr. Monomoy
Beyer:
92
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Mr. Monomoy 92
Mr. Monomoy 92
Saturday,
Feb. 15, 2020
Risen Star (2nd division)
Fair Grounds, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Modernist
Beyer:
84
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Modernist 84
Modernist 84
Monday,
Feb. 17, 2020
Southwest
Oaklawn, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Silver Prospector
Beyer:
97
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Silver Prospector 97
Silver Prospector 97
Saturday,
Feb. 29, 2020
Fountain of Youth
Gulfstream, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Ete Indien
Beyer:
97
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Ete Indien 97
Ete Indien 97
Saturday,
Mar. 7, 2020
Gotham
Aqueduct, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Mischevious Alex
Beyer:
90
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Mischevious Alex 90
Mischevious Alex 90
Saturday,
Mar. 7, 2020
San Felipe
Santa Anita, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Authentic
Beyer:
98
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Authentic 98
Authentic 98
Saturday,
Mar. 7, 2020
Tampa Bay Derby
Tampa Bay Downs, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
King Guillermo
Beyer:
99
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
King Guillermo 99
King Guillermo 99
Saturday,
Mar. 14, 2020
Jeff Ruby Steaks
Turfway Park, 1 1/8 miles (AW)
Winner:
Field Pass
Beyer:
90
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Field Pass 90
Field Pass 90
Saturday,
Mar. 14, 2020
Rebel
Oaklawn, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Nadal
Beyer:
96
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Nadal 96
Nadal 96
Saturday,
Mar. 21, 2020
Louisiana Derby
Fair Grounds, 1 3/16 miles
Winner:
Wells Bayou
Beyer:
91
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Wells Bayou 91
Wells Bayou 91
Saturday,
Mar. 28, 2020
Florida Derby
Gulfstream, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Tiz the Law
Beyer:
96
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Tiz the Law 96
Tiz the Law 96
Saturday,
May. 2, 2020
Arkansas Derby (1st Division)
Oaklawn, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Basin (via DQ)
Beyer:
87
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Basin (via DQ) 87
Basin (via DQ) 87
Saturday,
May. 2, 2020
Arkansas Derby (2nd Division)
Oaklawn, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Nadal
Beyer:
98
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Nadal 98
Nadal 98
Saturday,
May. 23, 2020
Matt Winn
Churchill Downs, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Maxfield
Beyer:
95
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Maxfield 95
Maxfield 95
Saturday,
Jun. 6, 2020
Santa Anita Derby
Santa Anita, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Honor A. P.
Beyer:
102
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Honor A. P. 102
Honor A. P. 102
Saturday,
Jun. 20, 2020
Belmont Stakes
Belmont, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Tiz the Law
Beyer:
100
Points (1-2-3-4):
150-60-30-15
Tiz the Law 100
Tiz the Law 100
Saturday,
Jun. 27, 2020
Ohio Derby
Thistledown, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Dean Martini
Beyer:
95
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Dean Martini 95
Dean Martini 95
Saturday,
Jul. 4, 2020
Los Alamitos Derby
Los Alamitos, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Uncle Chuck
Beyer:
94
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Uncle Chuck 94
Uncle Chuck 94
Wednesday,
Jul. 8, 2020
Indiana Derby
Indiana Grand, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Shared Sense
Beyer:
92
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Shared Sense 92
Shared Sense 92
Saturday,
Jul. 11, 2020
Blue Grass
Keeneland, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Art Collector
Beyer:
103
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Art Collector 103
Art Collector 103
Thursday,
Jul. 16, 2020
Peter Pan
Saratoga, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Country Grammer
Beyer:
95
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Country Grammer 95
Country Grammer 95
Saturday,
Jul. 18, 2020
Haskell Invitational
Monmouth Park, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Authentic
Beyer:
100
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Authentic 100
Authentic 100
Saturday,
Aug. 1, 2020
Shared Belief
Del Mar, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Thousand Words
Beyer:
104
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Thousand Words 104
Thousand Words 104
Saturday,
Aug. 8, 2020
Travers
Saratoga, 1 1/4 miles
Winner:
Tiz the Law
Beyer:
109
Points (1-2-3-4):
100-40-20-10
Tiz the Law 109
Tiz the Law 109
Sunday,
Aug. 9, 2020
Ellis Park Derby
Ellis Park, 1 1/8 miles
Winner:
Art Collector
Beyer:
100
Points (1-2-3-4):
50-20-10-5
Art Collector 100
Art Collector 100
Saturday,
Aug. 15, 2020
Pegasus
Monmouth Park, 1 1/16 miles
Winner:
Pneumatic
Beyer:
99
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Pneumatic 99
Pneumatic 99
European Road to the Derby
Date
Race / Track / Distance
Winner
Saturday,
Sep. 28, 2019
Royal Lodge Newmarket, 1 mile (T)
Winner:
Royal Domoch
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Royal Domoch
Royal Domoch
Sunday,
Sep. 29, 2019
Beresford Naas, 1 mile (T)
Winner:
Innisfree
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Innisfree
Innisfree
Sunday,
Oct. 6, 2019
Prix du Jean Luc Legardare Longchamp, 1 mile (T)
Winner:
Victor Ludorum
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Victor Ludorum
Victor Ludorum
Friday,
Nov. 1, 2019
Vertum Futurity Trophy Newcastle, 1 mile (S)
Winner:
Kameko
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Kameko
Kameko
Friday,
Feb. 28, 2020
Patton Dundalk, 1 mile (S)
Winner:
Crossfirehurricane
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Crossfirehurricane
Crossfirehurricane
Wednesday,
Mar. 4, 2020
Road to the Derby Condition Kempton, 1 mile (S)
Winner:
Chares
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
20-8-4-2
Chares
Chares
Japan Road to the Derby
Date
Race / Track / Distance
Winner
Saturday,
Nov. 23, 2019
Cattleya Sho 1 mile, Tokyo
Winner:
Dieu du Vin
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Dieu du Vin
Dieu du Vin
Wednesday,
Dec. 18, 2019
Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun 1 mile, Kawasaki
Winner:
Vacation
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Vacation
Vacation
Sunday,
Feb. 23, 2020
Hyacinth 1 mile, Tokyo
Winner:
Cafe Pharoah
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Cafe Pharoah
Cafe Pharoah
Saturday,
Mar. 28, 2020
Fukuryu Stakes 1 1/8 miles, Nakayama
Winner:
Herrschaft
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
10-4-2-1
Herrschaft
Herrschaft
Sunday,
Jun. 21, 2020
Unicorn Stakes 1 mile, Tokyo
Winner:
Cafe Pharoah
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
40-16-8-4
Cafe Pharoah
Cafe Pharoah
Wednesday,
Jul. 8, 2020
Japan Dirt Derby 1/14 miles, Ohi
Winner:
Danon Pharoah
Beyer:
Points (1-2-3-4):
40-16-8-4
Danon Pharoah
Danon Pharoah
All Top Kentucky Derby News
Kentucky Derby: John Velazquez wins his third, agent Ron Anderson his fifth
Marty McGee
Sep 7, 2020
Authentic was the third Derby winner for Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez and his first with Ron Anderson as his agent. Velazquez, who previously won with Animal Kingdom (2011) and Always Dreaming (2017), donated a portion of his earnings to fellow rider Vinnie Bednar, who suffered lower-limb paralysis in an Aug. 22 spill at Los Alamitos.
Kentucky Derby: Black Lives Matter protests a somber backdrop to Authentic's victory
Nicole Russo
Sep 7, 2020
Even though Churchill Downs on Saturday was closed to spectators and all but a select few as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, the calls for racial justice that have gripped Louisville for more than three months were visible before, during, and after the Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby handle, viewership down more than 50 percent
Matt Hegarty
Sep 7, 2020
Is the Kentucky Derby the Kentucky Derby if it is run four months after the first Saturday in May? Handle and viewership numbers would say no.
Authentic's Kentucky Derby victory lays to rest any doubts about his sire, Into Mischief
Nicole Russo
Sep 7, 2020
Authentic gamely turned back favored Tiz the Law in the Churchill Downs stretch, giving B. Wayne Hughes his first Derby winner and giving Into Mischief his first classic winner, answering questions about the sire's ability to produce stamina.
Kentucky Derby: Baffert calls it 'the most crazy 30 minutes I’ve had in racing'
Marty McGee
Sep 6, 2020
Bob Baffert, who on Saturday tied the legendary Ben A. Jones for the all-time record for most wins (six) by a Kentucky Derby trainer when Authentic triumphed under John Velazquez, made a morning-after appearance at his Barn 33 in front of just a handful of media – as opposed to the usual swarm that congregates in non-coronavirus years.
Kentucky Derby: Authentic turns back Tiz the Law to give Baffert record-tying sixth victory
Marty McGee
Sep 5, 2020
Leave it to the year of the coronavirus to give a surreal ending to the Kentucky Derby. Authentic won the 146th running of the fabled Run for the Roses on Saturday at spectator-free Churchill Downs, giving Bob Baffert a record-tying sixth victory in America’s greatest horse race while leaving the Hall of Fame trainer choking back tears.
Great expectations evaporate into disappointment for the Sackatoga team
Nicole Russo
Sep 5, 2020
Lightning did not strike twice for the Sackatoga Stable crew, as they watched their Belmont and Travers winner Tiz the Law come up just short in the 146th Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby 2020 handle down 52 percent
Matt Hegarty
Sep 5, 2020
Total handle on a Kentucky Derby run four months after the first Saturday of May dropped just more than 50 percent this year, underlining the importance of the race’s longtime spot on the calendar.
Kentucky Derby 2020 payouts
DRF Staff
Sep 5, 2020
Winning payouts on the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5, 2020.
Kentucky Derby: Tiz the Law tries to impose order in year of chaos
Marty McGee
Sep 3, 2020
It's finally here, although not as we know it. The Kentucky Derby will be run for the 146th time Saturday at historic Churchill Downs, its shape and form tainted by a four-month postponement, an ongoing coronavirus pandemic, widespread social unrest, and the disappointment of tens of thousands of would-be revelers being told not to bother coming.
Kentucky Oaks-Derby double will-pays; early Kentucky Derby odds
DRF Staff
Sep 4, 2020
Here are the Oaks-Derby double will-pays and the early odds (as of 6 p.m. Eastern on Friday) from advance wagering on Saturday’s 146th Kentucky Derby.
Churchill Downs handles $30.65 million on Kentucky Oaks card
Matt Hegarty
Sep 4, 2020
Total betting on the 13-race Kentucky Oaks card run Friday at Churchill Downs was $30.65 million, according to charts of the races, roughly half of the record amount bet last year on the Oaks card.
Kentucky Derby: King Guillermo will scratch after spiking a fever
Nicole Russo
Sep 3, 2020
King Guillermo will be scratched from Saturday's Kentucky Derby after developing a fever on Wednesday afternoon, his trainer, Juan Carlos Avila, said on Thursday.
Kentucky Derby: 17 years later, the Sackatoga gang is back
David Grening
Sep 3, 2020
Like periodical cicadas who emerge every 17 years, Sackatoga Stable and trainer Barclay Tagg are back in the Kentucky Derby. This time, however, they are not bringing a 12-1 shot to event, like they did in 2003 with Funny Cide.
Kentucky Derby: Rice disappointed but rooting for Max Player
David Grening
Sep 3, 2020
Trainer Linda Rice said she will have mixed emotions Saturday watching the Kentucky Derby on television from Saratoga. She would much rather be in Louisville, putting the saddle on Max Player in what would have been her first Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby: King Guillermo has 'little problem,' didn't train Thursday
Nicole Russo
Sep 3, 2020
Kentucky Derby entrant King Guillermo did not train Thursday morning at Churchill Downs and, in a developing story, trainer Juan Carlos Avila said the colt has "a little problem."
Kentucky Derby: Tiz the Law has easy gallop over sloppy track
Marty McGee
Sep 2, 2020
All eyes were on Tiz the Law early Wednesday when the heavy favorite for Kentucky Derby 146 got reacquainted with a sloppy Churchill Downs surface for the first time in more than nine months.
Kentucky Derby: Tiz the Law draws post 17 in field of 18
Marty McGee
Sep 1, 2020
Tiz the Law, likely to be one of the heaviest Kentucky Derby favorites of the last half-century, was assigned post 17 in a field of 18 3-year-olds when entries were drawn Tuesday at Churchill Downs.
Kentucky Derby 2020: Brad Free's picks and analysis
Brad Free
Sep 3, 2020
Brad Free provides his selections and commentary on Kentucky Derby 2020.
Kentucky Derby 2020: Mike Beer's picks and analysis
Mike Beer
Sep 3, 2020
Mike Beer provides his selections and commentary on Kentucky Derby 2020.
Kentucky Derby 2020: Mike Welsch's picks and analysis
Mike Welsch
Sep 3, 2020
Mike Welsch provides his selections and commentary on Kentucky Derby 2020.
Kentucky Derby 2020: Marcus Hersh's picks and analysis
Marcus Hersh
Sep 3, 2020
Marcus Hersh provides his selections and commentary on Kentucky Derby 2020.
Kentucky Derby 2020: Dan Illman's picks and analysis
Dan Illman
Sep 1, 2020
Dan Illman provides his selections and commentary on Kentucky Derby 2020.
Kentucky Derby: Art Collector out with minor foot ailment
Marty McGee
Sep 1, 2020
Art Collector, the likely second wagering choice Saturday in the 146th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, is out after suffering a minor foot ailment.
Kentucky Derby has first Black owners in 13 years
Nicole Russo
Sep 2, 2020
Will Harbut Racing LLC, is one of the three owners of Kentucky Derby entrant Necker Island. The man behind Will Harbut Racing is Greg Harbut, a bloodstock agent who named the operation for his family's deep ties to racing, which are especially poignant in this year of racial unrest.
Cordero has new rising star
David Grening
Sep 2, 2020
For the first time in more than two decades, Angel Cordero Jr. won't be rooting for his protégé John Velazquez to win the Kentucky Derby. Arguably the most accomplished agent-jockey tandem in racing history, Cordero and Velazquez split up earlier this year after 22 years together.
Kentucky Derby: Shirreffs's Zenyatta visit will have to wait
Jay Privman
Sep 2, 2020
John Shirreffs trained Zenyatta throughout her Hall of Fame career and can't wait to see her soon, but the demands of the Kentucky Derby will mean the next visit will come later this month, when he returns for the yearling sales. This week, he's sticking to Churchill Downs like Calvin Borel sticks to the rail.
Kentucky Derby: Avila playing the long game with King Guillermo
Marcus Hersh
Aug 31, 2020
Juan Carlos Avila has set himself a challenge no modern American trainer has taken – winning the Kentucky Derby with a horse returning from a months-long layoff. King Guillermo, when he lines up in the Churchill Downs starting gate Saturday, will be racing for the first time since May 2. That makes King Guillermo's a 125-day layoff, a radical outlier in recent Derby history.
Kentucky Derby: 15 years after Giacomo, Shirreffs hopes for another memorable afternoon with Honor A. P.
Jay Privman
Sep 1, 2020
It has been more than 15 years since trainer John Shirreffs won the Kentucky Derby, but when he is asked of that glorious May day back in 2005 at Churchill Downs, the memories are vivid. Shirreffs is hoping to make more memories Saturday, when he sends out Honor A. P., the winner of the Santa Anita Derby, in the 146th Derby.
Kentucky Derby: Max Player shows liking for track in final drill
Marty McGee
Aug 31, 2020
With the arrival of the heavy favorite and the post-position draw both set for the following morning at Churchill Downs, Max Player was sent through his final pre-race workout early Monday ahead of the 146th Kentucky Derby.
Necker Island goes from claim box to Kentucky Derby
Nicole Russo
Aug 31, 2020
Wayne Scherr had tried to reach the Kentucky Derby via traditional ownership routes, buying young horses at yearling and 2-year-old auctions. But when the search for his Derby horse proved fruitless, he proposed a different avenue to trainer Chris Hartman.
Authentic shows top form in Kentucky Derby drill
Jay Privman
Aug 30, 2020
There may be questions over whether Authentic can stretch his speed to 1 1/4 miles Saturday in the Kentucky Derby, but there is no question he's coming into the biggest test of his life as good as can be. This was confirmed Sunday morning at Del Mar when he completed his serious training for the Derby with a strong drill that capped off an excellent series since his victory in the Haskell.
Top Kentucky Derby entrants spoken for as stallions
Nicole Russo
Aug 30, 2020
The Kentucky Derby is only a few days away. But for a few of the colts who will try to write their names in the history books this Saturday, part of their future is already secured. Several of the expected entrants in their Derby field are already spoken for as future stallions, led by favorite Tiz the Law, who will eventually join some of the biggest stars in modern history at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud.
Last year's freshman sires well represented in Kentucky Derby, Oaks
Nicole Russo
Aug 30, 2020
Last year's class of freshman sires was touted as stellar. Not only did the class have success with its 2-year-olds, with a pair of Breeders' Cup winners and several other Grade 1 winners sired by the group, but now, the following year, with several expected entrants in the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks by first-crop sires.
Albaugh deals itself likely Kentucky Derby starter
Nicole Russo
Aug 30, 2020
Every Thoroughbred bloodstock entity faces difficult decisions in wheeling and dealing its stock in pursuit of success. Of course, operations want to breed or acquire the best horses possible – but financing that pursuit may also require selling some stock to raise capital. The Albaugh Family Stable faced some of those difficult decisions at the 2018 Keeneland September yearling sale – and so far, the Iowa-based racing operation of Dennis Albaugh and Jason Loutsch has wound up with a good hand.
Kentucky Derby: Ownership reflects modern trend
Nicole Russo
Aug 30, 2020
In recent years, the club model of Thoroughbred ownership has grown in popularity, attracting new owners to Thoroughbred racing by offering interested parties a chance to buy a small share in a horse with a small single payment.
Cough forces Shirl's Speight out of Kentucky Derby
Ron Gierkink
Aug 29, 2020
Owner Charles Fipke announced on his Twitter account Saturday that his unbeaten 3-year-old colt Shirl’s Speight will miss next Saturday’s Kentucky Derby due to a cough.
Kentucky Derby: Smith, Shirreffs feeling good after Honor A. P.'s final drill
Jay Privman
Aug 29, 2020
Honor A. P. is right where trainer John Shirreffs and jockey Mike Smith want him. In his final afternoon work here at Del Mar, his final work for the Kentucky Derby seven days hence, Honor A. P. worked a steady seven furlongs in 1:27.20, including a final quarter in 24.40 seconds, then galloped out a mile in 1:40.60.
Pletcher confirms Money Moves for Kentucky Derby, Dr Post for Jim Dandy
David Grening
Aug 29, 2020
Trainer Todd Pletcher has confirmed plans for his 3-year-olds, with Money Moves going to next Saturday’s Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and Dr Post, the Belmont Stakes runner-up, pointing to the Grade 2, $150,000 Jim Dandy Stakes at Saratoga the same day.
Kentucky Derby: Tiz the Law beats the rain with fast five-furlong drill
David Grening
Aug 29, 2020
Before the rain came Saturday morning in upstate New York, Tiz the Law completed his major preparation for next Saturday’s Kentucky Derby by working a fast five furlongs in 58.96 seconds over a fast Saratoga main track.
Kentucky Derby: Ny Traffic works sharp five furlongs with lengthy gallop-out
Mike Welsch
Aug 28, 2020
Trainer Saffie Joseph said he couldn't have been happier with the way Ny Traffic worked here Friday in his final serious prep before the Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby: Art Collector one of five Friday workers to beat the rain
Marty McGee
Aug 28, 2020
With the remnants of Hurricane Laura expected to douse this region later in the day, a handful of contenders for Kentucky Derby 146 led by Art Collector were out for their final pre-race workouts Friday morning at Churchill Downs amid humid but dry conditions.
Kentucky Derby: After months of waiting, the song remains the same
Jay Privman
Aug 26, 2020
On March 17, it was announced the Kentucky Derby would be postponed four months, until Sept. 5. Through all the waiting, Authentic, Honor A. P., and Tiz the Law have remained top contenders for the Derby, a testament to the skill of their trainers, and the ability and consistency of the horses.
Kentucky Derby: Sole Volante to arrive at Churchill Sunday after sizzling work
Marty McGee
Aug 28, 2020
Sole Volante, whose last start resulted in a distant sixth-place finish in the June 20 Belmont Stakes, was scheduled to arrive by van Sunday at Churchill for the Kentucky Derby after sizzling five furlongs in 57.80 seconds over turf Friday at the Palm Meadows training center in south Florida.
Kentucky Derby: Foley barn optimistic after Major Fed's sharp work
Marty McGee
Aug 28, 2020
Pessimism is a very scarce commodity in the Greg Foley barn, from where Kentucky Derby longshot Major Fed has been training forwardly in recent weeks. The dark bay son of Ghostzapper was sent through his final pre-race prep, going five furlongs in 59 seconds well before dawn Friday with James Graham up.
Kentucky Derby: Money Moves is Pletcher's most likely starter
David Grening
Aug 28, 2020
Trainer Todd Pletcher worked a trio of 3-year-olds Friday at Saratoga with Money Moves still seeming to be the one he would run in the Derby if he runs one at all.
Kentucky Derby: Attachment Rate a confirmed starter
Marty McGee
Aug 27, 2020
After a couple of weeks of indecision, Attachment Rate has been confirmed as a starter for the 146th Kentucky Derby next Saturday.
Authentic aborts work due to ontrack incident, will work Tuesday
Jay Privman
Aug 24, 2020
A workout for Kentucky Derby contender Authentic had to be aborted shortly after it began early Monday morning at Del Mar owing to a catastrophic ankle injury suffered by another horse working about five furlongs in front of him, which caused warning sirens to go off and the track's outriders to instruct all riders to immediately pull up their horses.
Tiz the Law looks eager in five-furlong Derby work
David Grening
Aug 23, 2020
Fifteen days after Tiz the Law won the Runhappy Travers emphatically and 13 days before he runs in the Derby as the favorite on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs, Tagg sent Tiz the Law out early Sunday morning for a rigorous five-furlong workout that he completed in 59.47 seconds.
Shirl's Speight has solid work for Derby
Ron Gierkink
Aug 23, 2020
The unbeaten Kentucky Derby prospect, Shirl’s Speight, recorded his second fast work over the dirt training track at Woodbine last Friday. He went an old-school mile in 1:39.20 in company with five others, starting off slowly under jockey Emma-Jayne Wilson and then finishing well under a drive.
Baffert says Thousand Words 'real strong' in five-furlong drill
Jay Privman
Aug 23, 2020
After going off form earlier this year, Thousand Words seemed invigorated once relocating here to Del Mar, where he trained sharply heading into the Shared Belief, in which he scored a 9-1 upset over Santa Anita Derby winner Honor A. P. He has continued to train forwardly since that race in preparation for the Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby: Honor A. P. given lengthy gallop-out following five-furlong work
Jay Privman
Aug 22, 2020
The second of the three afternoon workouts for Honor A. P. at Del Mar leading up to the Kentucky Derby was supposed to be the most serious of them, and the intent was evident on Saturday, as jockey Mike Smith had the long-striding colt continue out strongly, turning what was listed officially as a five-furlong drill into what was more like a seven-furlong move.
Kentucky Derby: Tiz the Law's work rained out but Travers runner-up Caracaro breezes anyway
David Grening
Aug 22, 2020
A heavy thunderstorm hit Saratoga at about 8 a.m. Saturday morning, dropping .36 of an inch of rain and turning a fast main track into a mud pit, prompting the connections of Tiz the Law to postpone a scheduled workout in preparation for the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5. The connections of Caracaro, however, went ahead with their planned work and the Travers runner-up went five furlongs in 1:01.88.
Kentucky Derby to be held without spectators
Matt Hegarty
Aug 21, 2020
The Kentucky Derby will be run without fans this year for the first time in its history.
Solid work has Dr Post poised to run in Kentucky Derby
David Grening
Aug 21, 2020
A final decision on his participation in the Kentucky Derby was to be made over the weekend, but Dr Post signaled his preparedness for the race with a solid five-furlong workout in 1:00.75 on Friday morning over Saratoga's main track.
Ny Traffic more than holding form for Kentucky Derby
Mike Welsch
Aug 20, 2020
Ny Traffic has improved with every start since launching his 3-year-old campaign with an easy allowance win at Gulfstream Park more than seven months ago. And trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. is hoping that Ny Traffic – the “other” New York-bred in the field along with heavy favorite Tiz the Law – will have one more forward move in him on Kentucky Derby Day.
Kentucky Derby runners begin to assemble at Churchill Downs
Marty McGee
Aug 19, 2020
With some two weeks to go before the 146th Kentucky Derby, fewer than half of the expected starters in the Sept. 5 race are on the grounds at Churchill Downs as travel plans begin to solidify for the balance of the field.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for Aug. 19, 2020
Jay Privman
Aug 19, 2020
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for Aug. 19, 2020
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Pegasus Stakes Analysis
Jay Privman
Aug 16, 2020
The victorious Pneumatic, fourth in the Belmont in his prior start, has raced just five times and is not quite at the level of Tiz the Law at the moment, so his connections are taking the long view and pointing to the Preakness on Oct. 3.
Pneumatic, following Pegasus win, points to Preakness
David Grening
Aug 16, 2020
Pneumatic, the relatively easy winner of Saturday’s $150,000 Pegasus Stakes at Monmouth Park, will be pointed to the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico on Oct. 3, his connections said Sunday.
Honor A. P. has solid work with Smith aboard
Jay Privman
Aug 15, 2020
Jockey Mike Smith was able to finally get back on Honor A. P. for a work at Del Mar on Saturday. Reunited, they looked so good.
Dr Post works like a Kentucky Derby horse
David Grening
Aug 14, 2020
Dr Post worked five furlongs in 1:01.34 on Friday morning over Saratoga's main track, after which trainer Todd Pletcher stopped just short of committing him to the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs.
Math Wizard pushes Ny Traffic just enough in workout
Mike Welsch
Aug 13, 2020
Trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. wanted to make sure he found someone competitive enough in his barn to work with his Kentucky Derby-bound Ny Traffic after the renovation break here Thursday. And he found the perfect mate in the older Grade 1 winner Math Wizard.
Authentic works six furlongs for Kentucky Derby
Steve Andersen
Aug 13, 2020
Authentic, the narrow winner of the Grade 1 Haskell Invitational on July 18 at Monmouth Park, had his third workout of August at Del Mar on Thursday in preparation for the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs.
Kentucky Derby: Coronavirus is complicating riding assignments
Jay Privman
Aug 12, 2020
Top jockeys and their agents often face difficult decisions when two horses the jockey has been riding end up pointing for the same race, which takes on added significance when it's a race with the profile of the Kentucky Derby. This year, though, that decision is further complicated.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for Aug. 12, 2020
Jay Privman
Aug 12, 2020
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for Aug. 12, 2020
Max Player transferred to Asmussen barn
David Grening
Aug 11, 2020
Max Player, the third-place finisher behind Tiz the Law in both the Belmont Stakes and Runhappy Travers Stakes, has been transferred from trainer Linda Rice to Steve Asmussen and will be pointed to the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5, according to majority owner George Hall.
Prospective Kentucky Derby field dwindles after dominating performances
Jay Privman
Aug 10, 2020
The dominating victories last weekend by Tiz the Law and Art Collector further strengthened their position at the top of the list of candidates for the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs, and several of those left in their wake are now seeking other options. They've seen enough. Combined with the attrition rate for this Derby owing to its postponement by four months, there is the very real possibility fewer than the maximum 20 horses could enter the Derby, which has not happened since 2003.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Ellis Park Derby analysis
Jay Privman
Aug 11, 2020
Tiz the Law is the acknowledged favorite for the Kentucky Derby, but there’s plenty to like about Art Collector, who like Tiz the Law is now 4 for 4 this year following this final race prior to the Derby. He has now won three straight races at three different tracks while recording a Beyer Speed Figure of 100 or better in those races.
Art Collector emerges from authoritative Ellis Derby win in good shape
Marty McGee
Aug 10, 2020
Art Collector emerged from his fourth straight victory in good order as trainer Tommy Drury starts making plans to get the colt ready for the Sept. 5 Kentucky Derby.
Tiz the Law closes as 11-10 favorite in Pool 7 of Kentucky Derby Future Wager
Marty McGee
Aug 9, 2020
Following his Saturday romp in the Runhappy Travers, Tiz the Law is by far the heaviest individually listed favorite in the 21-year history of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager.
Art Collector leads gate to wire in Ellis Park Derby
Marty McGee
Aug 9, 2020
Tommy Drury said he was so uptight as the Ellis Park Derby was being run Sunday that “I thought my legs were going to give out.” Wait until the next one.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Travers Stakes analysis
Jay Privman
Aug 9, 2020
The beat goes on for Tiz the Law, who in his last two starts has made good horses look ordinary with dominating performances. He followed up his terrific Belmont Stakes score with an even better race here, earning a career-best Beyer Speed Figure, a strong one at that, while crushing the previously unbeaten Uncle Chuck and leaving everyone well in his wake.
Tiz the Law will train up to Kentucky Derby at Saratoga
David Grening
Aug 9, 2020
Seventeen years after winning the Kentucky Derby with the New York-bred gelding Funny Cide, who pulled off a 12-1 upset, trainer Barclay Tagg and Sackatoga Stable will be heading back to Churchill Downs with another New York-bred who will be a much shorter price in the world’s most famous horse race.
Tiz the Law scores overwhelming Travers victory; goes to Kentucky Derby as favorite
David Grening
Aug 8, 2020
Approaching the three-furlong pole of Saturday’s Grade 1 Runhappy Travers Stakes, Tiz the Law, the clear leader of the 3-year-old division, sidled up alongside the pacesetting Uncle Chuck, an apparent top-ranked contender, and the stage was set for a stirring stretch battle before an empty Saratoga grandstand. The fight didn’t last long.
Ny Traffic starts working his way toward Kentucky Derby
David Grening
Aug 6, 2020
Ny Traffic, beaten a nose by Authentic in the Grade 1 Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park on July 18, returned to the work tab Thursday at Saratoga, breezing a half-mile in 49.90 seconds over the main track.
Late Kentucky Derby arrivals right on time, courtesy of the pandemic
Jay Privman
Aug 5, 2020
If not for the coronavirus pandemic, which delayed the Kentucky Derby until Sept. 5, Art Collector and Uncle Chuck would have missed the Derby. Instead, both are very much in play.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for Aug. 5, 2020
Jay Privman
Aug 5, 2020
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for Aug. 5, 2020
Tiz the Law favored in final Kentucky Derby Future Wager pool
Marty McGee
Aug 5, 2020
Six new names are among the 23 separately listed interests in the seventh and final pool in the 2020 Kentucky Derby Future Wager, which opens Friday at noon Eastern for the customary three-day run.
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Uncle Chuck
Nicole Russo
Aug 5, 2020
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Uncle Chuck
Major Fed going straight to Kentucky Derby
Marty McGee
Aug 5, 2020
The connections of Major Fed considered running the Ghostzapper colt in the Runhappy Ellis Park Derby on Sunday before deciding instead to train him straight into the Kentucky Derby.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Shared Belief Stakes analysis
Jay Privman
Aug 2, 2020
As with the Haskell two weeks ago, here’s another final Derby prep in which the figure seems in contrast to how the race looked visually.
Thousand Words, Honor A. P. headed to Kentucky Derby
Jay Privman
Aug 2, 2020
Thousand Words and Honor A. P. are both headed to the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs after emerging in good order from the Shared Belief Stakes on Saturday at Del Mar, their trainers said Sunday morning.
Thousand Words gets back on track in Shared Belief Stakes
Jay Privman
Aug 1, 2020
Thousand Words, whose early promise at 2 had largely failed to translate at 3, continued his second act with a victory on Saturday in the $98,000 Shared Belief Stakes at Del Mar, which came at the expense of the West Coast’s top-ranked Derby prospect, Honor A. P.
Sole Volante breezes on turf at Palm Meadows, will train up to Kentucky Derby
Mike Welsch
Jul 31, 2020
Sole Volante breezed five furlongs over the turf in 1:02 on Friday morning at Palm Meadows, his first work since a disappointing sixth-place finish in the Belmont Stakes.
Kentucky Derby: Honor A. P. puts owner Lee Searing in the spotlight
Jay Privman
Jul 29, 2020
Lee Searing might be the most prominent owner in the sport you don't know much about. It's not because he's averse to press, just that he's not one to seek the spotlight. But it has certainly found him this spring, as Honor A. P. has progressed into one of the elite contenders for the Kentucky Derby.
Honor A. P. leads parade of high-profile Saturday workers
Jay Privman
Jul 25, 2020
Led by Santa Anita Derby winner Honor A. P., a trio of prospects for next Saturday’s Shared Belief Stakes all worked Saturday at Del Mar during a busy morning that saw 195 horses record drills, including important preps by the older horse Improbable, the terrific 3-year-old sprinter Collusion Illusion, and the older mare Ollie’s Candy.
Uncle Chuck gears up for Travers with smart Del Mar work
Jay Privman
Jul 20, 2020
Authentic is in in the Kentucky Derby. Uncle Chuck is trying to get there. Two days after his colt Authentic won the Haskell to earn the right to move on to the Derby, trainer Bob Baffert on Monday morning here at Del Mar sent out Uncle Chuck for an eye-catching workout as the exciting, late-developing colt continues to progress toward the Travers on Aug. 8 at Saratoga.
Tiz the Law closes at 5-2 favorite in Pool 6 of Derby Future Wager
Marty McGee
Jul 20, 2020
Tiz the Law closed as a clear-cut favorite when Pool 6 in the 2020 Kentucky Derby Future Wager closed Sunday following the customary three days of betting.
Haskell 1-2-3 finishers headed to Kentucky Derby
Jay Privman
Jul 19, 2020
The top three finishers in the Haskell Stakes on Saturday at Monmouth all emerged from the race in good order, and all will make their next start in the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs, meaning they will come into the Derby following a seven-week layoff.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Haskell Stakes analysis
Jay Privman
Jul 19, 2020
Here’s one of the more confounding races to analyze in quite a while. On one hand, Authentic just lasted to win going 1 1/8 miles, continuing to give the indication that extra distance looks like it will be a challenge. On the other hand, Authentic earned a career-best Beyer Speed Figure in this race, equaling the fig earned by Tiz the Law in the Belmont Stakes, for instance.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Peter Pan Stakes analysis
Jay Privman
Jul 19, 2020
Country Grammer was significantly impacted by the postponement of racing in New York earlier this year. It looks like he’s now able to get into a routine of racing and training. That, and the forward move he made he made in the Peter Pan, bodes well for him in coming months.
Authentic gets the job done in Haskell, but just barely
Jay Privman
Jul 18, 2020
Authentic accomplished what he needed to accomplish on Saturday, earning his first Grade 1 victory in the $1 million Haskell Stakes at Monmouth Park, and succeeding at 1 1/8 miles.
Tiz the Law makes it look easy in five-furlong drill
David Grening
Jul 18, 2020
Heather Smullen had not sat on the back of Tiz the Law for about three months. It took less than a minute for her to realize how much the 3-year-old colt has changed in a short period of time.
Country Grammer rallies on rail to win Peter Pan Stakes
Mike Welsch
Jul 16, 2020
Country Grammer rallied along the rail to defeat Caracaro by a neck to capture the $100,000 Peter Pan in front of a silent, empty grandstand on what winning trainer Chad Brown called a “bittersweet day” Thursday at Saratoga.
Pool 6 of Kentucky Derby Future Wager opens Friday; Oaks wagering also offered
Marty McGee
Jul 15, 2020
Seven new names are among the 22 separately listed interests in Pool 6 of the 2020 Kentucky Derby Future Wager, which opens Friday at noon Eastern.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for July 15, 2020
Jay Privman
Jul 15, 2020
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for July 15, 2020
If Art Collector runs before Kentucky Derby, it will be at Ellis Park
Marty McGee
Jul 13, 2020
Art Collector is back in the quiet environs of the Skylight training center just east of Louisville, Ky., as his hometown connections ponder what will come next for a colt whose emphatic triumph Saturday in the Blue Grass Stakes has made him a major contender for the 146th Kentucky Derby.
Cafe Pharoah will not travel from Japan for Kentucky Derby
Jay Privman
Jul 12, 2020
It appears unlikely that a horse representing Japan will be in this year’s Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Blue Grass Stakes analysis
Jay Privman
Jul 12, 2020
Art Collector is one of several horses who have become major players in this year’s Kentucky Derby owing to the race’s postponement for four months. This was obviously his most significant win this year, as it was against the best field he has faced. He responded by earning a career-best Beyer Speed Figure.
Art Collector Kentucky Derby-bound after impressive Blue Grass score
Marty McGee
Jul 11, 2020
Art Collector, a fast-improving colt who figures as one of the favorites for the 2020 Kentucky Derby, posted an emphatic triumph Saturday in the Grade 2, $600,000 Blue Grass Stakes at spectator-free Keeneland.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Indiana Derby analysis
Jay Privman
Jul 12, 2020
With four Derby preps scheduled to be run within a 10-day period, and with this offering the fewest points of those four toward the Kentucky Derby, it stood to reason that this would come up with a field of horses not yet at the top level. Shared Sense made the most of the opportunity, winning his graded stakes debut against eight rivals, who, like him, had never won a graded stakes race.
Shared Sense pulls away in stretch to claim Indiana Derby
Marcus Hersh
Jul 8, 2020
Bulling his way to the outside at the quarter pole, Shared Sense got up a full head of steam into the homestretch and drew clear to win the Grade 3, $300,000 Indiana Derby by three lengths.
Danon Pharaoh scores huge upset over Cafe Pharoah in Japan Dirt Derby
Steve Andersen
Jul 8, 2020
Danon Pharaoh, a Japanese-bred colt by American Pharoah, had an ideal trip to win Wednesday’s $711,694 Japan Dirt Derby at Oi Racecourse in Tokyo, the final race in the Kentucky Derby qualifying series in that country. Danon Pharaoh easily beat the strongly favored Cafe Pharoah, the previously unbeaten Kentucky-bred colt who faded from contention in the final three furlongs and finished seventh.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for July 8, 2020
Jay Privman
Jul 8, 2020
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for July 8, 2020
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Swiss Skydiver
Nicole Russo
Jul 8, 2020
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Swiss Skydiver
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Los Alamitos Derby analysis
Jay Privman
Jul 5, 2020
It takes a pretty special horse to win going two turns in his debut with a Beyer Speed Figure of 95, then follow that up with a second-start victory in a graded stakes race going 1 1/8 miles with a Beyer Figure of similar value. Uncle Chuck is special.
Uncle Chuck gets to next level in Los Alamitos Derby win
Jay Privman
Jul 4, 2020
Uncle Chuck, making only the second start of his career after beating maidens last month at Santa Anita, turned back his more experienced stablemate Thousand Words in upper stretch and then drew away in the final furlong to score a four-length victory in the Grade 3, $150,000 Los Alamitos Derby going 1 1/8 miles.
Tiz the Law back on work tab with half-mile breeze
David Grening
Jul 1, 2020
Though Wednesday was a dark day on this circuit, Manny Franco was at Belmont Park bright and early on a beautiful summer morning. Franco was on-site to climb aboard his 3-year-old Tiz the Law for the first time since he won the abbreviated Belmont Stakes here June 20.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Ohio Derby analysis
Jay Privman
Jun 29, 2020
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Ohio Derby analysis
Amoss won't push Dean Martini into Kentucky Derby
Marty McGee
Jun 29, 2020
Tom Amoss had a lot on his plate last weekend. Staying put in Louisville, the veteran trainer won the Ohio Derby at Thistledown with Dean Martini; sent Lone Sailor into retirement; started thinking about one-turn races again with Serengeti Empress after the filly faded to fourth in the Fleur de Lis; and was encouraged by a runner-up comeback effort by Risky Mandate.
Tiz the Law closes as 2-1 favorite in Pool 5 of Kentucky Derby Future Wager
Marty McGee
Jun 28, 2020
Tiz the Law, winner of the Belmont Stakes, closed as a solid favorite when Pool 5 of the 2020 Kentucky Derby Future Wager closed Sunday.
Dean Martini gives connections a pocketful of drinking money by winning the Ohio Derby
Marcus Hersh
Jun 27, 2020
Drinks Saturday night are on the connections of Dean Martini. Trainer Tom Amoss and Raise the Bar Racing claimed the gelding for $50,000 May 17 at Churchill Downs, and Saturday at Thistledown he won the $500,000 Ohio Derby.
Cafe Pharoah would give Japan its best shot ever to win the Kentucky Derby
Jay Privman
Jun 24, 2020
In the aftermath of the runaway victory by Cafe Pharoah in the Unicorn Stakes last Sunday at Tokyo Racecourse, Churchill Downs officials this week said they had received encouraging feedback from the colt's connections regarding a potential start in this year's Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5, adding international intrigue to an already unprecedented Derby.
Spectators will be allowed at Kentucky Derby and Oaks, with restrictions
Matt Hegarty
Jun 25, 2020
Spectators will be allowed at this year’s rescheduled Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville on Sept. 5 “under strict guidelines,” the parent company of the track announced on Thursday morning.
Kentucky Derby Future Wager contenders get major overhaul for Pool 5
Marty McGee
Jun 24, 2020
It's no surprise, but a major overhaul of the roster of separately listed interests has occurred in the 12 weeks that have elapsed since Churchill Downs last offered a Future Wager pool toward the 2020 Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for June 24, 2020
Jay Privman
Jun 24, 2020
The current Kentucky Derby line of Marty McGee of Daily Racing Form, who has Tiz the Law down to 7-5 following his clear-cut victory last Saturday in the Belmont Stakes.
Churchill Downs waiting on state approval of plan for Kentucky Derby spectators
Matt Hegarty
Jun 23, 2020
Churchill Downs has submitted operational plans to Kentucky state officials that envision allowing spectators for the Sept. 5 Kentucky Derby and the race cards that will precede it, a Churchill Downs official confirmed Tuesday.
Japan: Cafe Pharoah gets second win Kentucky Derby qualifier
Steve Andersen
Jun 21, 2020
Cafe Pharoah strengthened his status as the leading Japanese contender for the Kentucky Derby with a decisive five-length win in Sunday’s Grade 3 Unicorn Stakes at a mile at Tokyo Racecourse.
Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Belmont Stakes analysis
Jay Privman
Jun 21, 2020
In this most-unusual year, where the Belmont Stakes was run at a different distance than recent tradition and ended up leading off the Triple Crown while offering significant points toward the Kentucky Derby, this race had logic, normalcy, and reason.
Tiz the Law points to Travers after Belmont win
David Grening
Jun 21, 2020
Nothing got in Tiz the Law’s way Saturday as he sat a perfect three-wide stalking trip, took control turning for home, and cruised to a decisive victory over Dr Post in the Belmont. Tiz the Law covered the 1 1/8 miles in 1:46.53 and earned a 100 Beyer Speed Figure. On Sunday morning, Tiz the Law was described as perfect by trainer Barclay Tagg and his assistant Robin Smullen.
Tiz the Law finishes the job in Belmont for Tagg, Sackatoga Stables
David Grening
Jun 20, 2020
On a Saturday that trainer Barclay Tagg said was unlike “any other Saturday at the track that I’ve ever known,” he completed his own personal Triple Crown by winning the 152nd Belmont Stakes with Tiz the Law, who as the 4-5 favorite dominated the race by 3 3/4 lengths.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for June 17, 2020
Jay Privman
Jun 17, 2020
Late developers Uncle Chuck, who got a Beyer Speed Figure of 95 when debuting going two turns against maidens at Santa Anita, and Art Collector, who got an even bigger figure of 100 when beating allowance runners at Churchill Downs, are the two newest members of the Derby Watch top 20 following wins last week.
Cezanne a late arrival to the Kentucky Derby festivities
Jay Privman
Jun 10, 2020
Cezanne enters the Derby Watch top 20 as the fourth choice on the line of Daily Racing Form's Marty McGee. He earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 90 when beating maidens at Santa Anita last Saturday, the day the Belmont Stakes was originally scheduled.
Maxfield declared out of Kentucky Derby after condylar fracture
Marty McGee
Jun 10, 2020
Maxfield, one of the top contenders for the 146th Kentucky Derby, has been declared out of the Sept. 5 race after exiting a Wednesday breeze at Keeneland with a condylar fracture of his right front cannon bone.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for June 10, 2020
Jay Privman
Jun 10, 2020
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for June 10, 2020
Honor A. P., Authentic plotting paths to Kentucky Derby
Jay Privman
Jun 7, 2020
The top two finishers from the Santa Anita Derby – Honor A. P. and Authentic – both came out of the race in good order, and both remain on the trail to the Kentucky Derby, but how both get there is uncertain owing to the new path all 3-year-olds must navigate toward the delayed Sept. 5 Derby this year.
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Cezanne
Nicole Russo
Jun 10, 2020
The pricey Cezanne, who won his highly anticipated career debut last weekend at Santa Anita, sports the definition of a classic pedigree.
Baffert: No Belmont Stakes or Kentucky Derby for Charlatan
David Grening
Jun 6, 2020
Charlatan, who has crossed the finish line first in all three of his starts including a division of the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby, will not make the Belmont Stakes on June 20 or the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 due to an ankle injury, trainer Bob Baffert said Saturday.
Road the 2020 Kentucky Derby: Santa Anita Derby analysis
Jay Privman
Jun 7, 2020
Honor A.P. has all the tools – top trainer, Hall of Fame jockey, pedigree, looks – to be a major contender three months hence in the Derby, and he only figures to improve in that time.
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Honor A. P. gets the best of Authentic in Santa Anita Derby
Jay Privman
Jun 6, 2020
Time – and distance – were on the side of Honor A. P. on Saturday in the Santa Anita Derby in his rivalry with Authentic.
22 3-year-olds nominated to Triple Crown at second deadline
Jay Privman
Jun 4, 2020
Led by Tampa Bay Derby winner King Guillermo, such highly regarded runners as Pneumatic and Shooters Shoot, as well as the filly Swiss Skydiver and the high-priced auction buy Cezanne, a total of 22 3-year-olds were made eligible to the Triple Crown at the second deadline, which closed Wednesday after being postponed from March.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for May 20, 2020
Jay Privman
May 20, 2020
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for May 20, 2020
Following a two-month delay, Authentic, Honor A. P. rematched in Santa Anita Derby
Jay Privman
Jun 4, 2020
On the day that the Triple Crown would have been concluding in New York, a race will be run in California that serves as a prep for a Kentucky Derby that is three months away instead of the usual gap of one month. So just add that to the lengthy list of “what else is new?” for 2020, as the Santa Anita Derby finally is held two months after its intended date.
Kentucky Derby: Who's hot, who's not for June 3, 2020
Jay Privman
Jun 3, 2020
Tiz the Law has moved back into the role of favorite for the Sept. 5 Kentucky Derby following last week's injury to Nadal. Tiz the Law is now 3-1 on the line set by Marty McGee of Daily Racing Form after being 4-1 last week.
This time, Authentic's work for Kentucky Derby goes off without a hitch
Jay Privman
Aug 25, 2020
One day after Authentic had to have a work aborted through no fault of his own, he motored around Del Mar’s track early Tuesday morning in a demanding drill designed to have him on edge for the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs.
Spendthrift acquires majority interest in Authentic
Nicole Russo
Jun 4, 2020
Spendthrift Farm has acquired a majority interest in unbeaten Kentucky Derby hopeful Authentic, continuing to invest in its leading sire line.
Pneumatic nominated to Triple Crown
Jay Privman
Jun 2, 2020
With the Belmont Stakes on June 20 an option for his next start, Pneumatic – third most recently in the Matt Winn Stakes – has been nominated to the Triple Crown, trainer Steve Asmussen said.
Top Kentucky Derby contender Nadal fractures leg, retires
David Grening
May 28, 2020
Nadal, the undefeated 3-year-old and leading contender for the Kentucky Derby on Sept. 5, suffered a condylar fracture to his left foreleg after completing a workout Thursday morning at Santa Anita and has been retired from racing, according to co-owner George Bolton.
With the status of his Arkansas Derby win pending, Charlatan breezes at Santa Anita
Jay Privman
May 27, 2020
Though the fate of his victory in a division of the Arkansas Derby on May 2 is to be determined, Charlatan continues to train for potential tasks ahead, and on Wednesday at Santa Anita he breezed an easy half-mile in 50 seconds for trainer Bob Baffert in his first work since the race. Of the 94 works on Wednesday at Santa Anita, his was the only one designated as breezing.
Charlatan's initial test comes back positive after Arkansas Derby
Jay Privman
May 26, 2020
Charlatan, winner of the first division of the Arkansas Derby in his stakes debut May 2, had an initial test sample come back positive for an undisclosed medication, multiple sources told Daily Racing Form. If confirmed by a second test, it could result in his disqualification.
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Maxfield
Nicole Russo
May 20, 2020
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Maxfield
Churchill announces partial schedule for Kentucky Derby qualifying races
Marty McGee
May 12, 2020
Churchill Downs officials announced Tuesday a partially updated list of qualifying races for the Kentucky Derby and Oaks while also making contingencies for the Preakness and/or Belmont Stakes in case either precedes the Derby.
Kentucky Derby: Max Player shows liking for track in final drill
Marty McGee
Aug 31, 2020
With the arrival of the heavy favorite and the post-position draw both set for the following morning at Churchill Downs, Max Player was sent through his final pre-race workout early Monday ahead of the 146th Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Derby: Dime superfectas on wagering menu
Marty McGee
Aug 31, 2020
Unlike in past years, when a $1 minimum for superfecta wagers was in effect for all races on the Kentucky Oaks and Derby cards, Churchill this year will be offering 10-cent superfectas on all Sept. 4-5 races.
Kentucky Derby: Churchill Downs gate crew checks out new 20-stall starting gate
Nicole Russo
Aug 31, 2020
The new 20-horse starting gate that Churchill Downs acquired to accommodate what is typically a large field for the Kentucky Derby is in use during morning training for this year's contenders and will get a test run in a race this week.
Kentucky Derby 2020 Point Standings
Rank
Horse/Trainer
Horse/
Trainer
Horse
Trainer
Points
Non-Restricted Stakes Earnings
1
Tiz the Law
Barclay Tagg
Tiz the Law
Barclay Tagg
372
$1,972,400
2
Authentic
Bob Baffert
Authentic
Bob Baffert
200
$980,000
—
Art Collector
Tommy Drury Jr.
Art Collector
Tommy Drury Jr.
150
$476,461
3
Honor A. P.
John Shirreffs
Honor A. P.
John Shirreffs
140
$340,000
—
Basin
Steve Asmussen
Basin
Steve Asmussen
110
$592,500
4
Ny Traffic
Saffie Joseph Jr.
Ny Traffic
Saffie Joseph Jr.
110
$472,820
—
Wells Bayou
Brad Cox
Wells Bayou
Brad Cox
104
$765,000
5
King Guillermo
Juan Carlos Avila
King Guillermo
Juan Carlos Avila
90
$317,050
6
Thousand Words
Bob Baffert
Thousand Words
Bob Baffert
83
$297,000
—
Dr Post
Todd Pletcher
Dr Post
Todd Pletcher
80
$331,035
—
Ete Indien
Patrick Biancone
Ete Indien
Patrick Biancone
74
$357,156
—
Modernist
Bill Mott
Modernist
Bill Mott
70
$369,000
—
Maxfield
Brendan Walsh
Maxfield
Brendan Walsh
60
$388,350
7
Max Player
Linda Rice
Max Player
Linda Rice
60
$337,500
—
Caracaro
Gustavo Delgado
Caracaro
Gustavo Delgado
60
$205,000
—
Gouverneur Morris
Todd Pletcher
Gouverneur Morris
Todd Pletcher
54
$236,000
—
Mr. Monomoy
Brad Cox
Mr. Monomoy
Brad Cox
52
$260,000
—
Mischevious Alex
John Servis
Mischevious Alex
John Servis
50
$324,910
—
Country Grammer
Chad Brown
Country Grammer
Chad Brown
50
$106,400
—
Pneumatic
Steve Asmussen
Pneumatic
Steve Asmussen
45
$169,250
8
Enforceable
Mark Casse
Enforceable
Mark Casse
43
$314,550
—
Swiss Skydiver
Kenny McPeek
Swiss Skydiver
Kenny McPeek
40
$626,820
—
Shivaree
Ralph Nicks
Shivaree
Ralph Nicks
40
286,505
—
Rushie
Michael McCarthy
Rushie
Michael McCarthy
40
$108,000
9
Major Fed
Greg Foley
Major Fed
Greg Foley
38
$179,100
10
Storm the Court
Peter Eurton
Storm the Court
Peter Eurton
36
$1,273,851
11
Attachment Rate
Dale Romans
Attachment Rate
Dale Romans
35
$93,675
—
Anneau d'Or
Blaine Wright
Anneau d'Or
Blaine Wright
32
$434,000
12
Sole Volante
Patrick Biancone
Sole Volante
Patrick Biancone
30
$273,510
13
Finnick the Fierce
Rey Hernandez
Finnick the Fierce
Rey Hernandez
25
$121,700
—
Silver Prospector
Steve Asmussen
Silver Prospector
Steve Asmussen
21
$664,018
—
Dean Martini
Tom Amoss
Dean Martini
Tom Amoss
20
$301,882
—
Field Pass
Mike Maker
Field Pass
Mike Maker
20
$289,960
—
Excession
Steve Asmussen
Excession
Steve Asmussen
20
$206,000
—
Shared Sense
Brad Cox
Shared Sense
Brad Cox
20
$180,183
—
Uncle Chuck
Bob Baffert
Uncle Chuck
Bob Baffert
20
$120,000
—
Candy Tycoon
Todd Pletcher
Candy Tycoon
Todd Pletcher
20
$84,250
—
Untitled
Mark Casse
Untitled
Mark Casse
20
$81,999
14
Winning Impression
Dallas Stewart
Winning Impression
Dallas Stewart
20
$54,822
—
Shotski
Jeremiah O'Dwyer
Shotski
Jeremiah O'Dwyer
19
$212,466
15
South Bend
Stan Hough
South Bend
Stan Hough
18
$291,902
—
Jesus' Team
Jose D'Angelo
Jesus' Team
Jose D'Angelo
18
$80,000
—
Farmington Road
Todd Pletcher
Farmington Road
Todd Pletcher
15
$101,000
—
Independence Hall
Mike Trombetta
Independence Hall
Mike Trombetta
14
$226,600
—
Silver State
Steve Asmussen
Silver State
Steve Asmussen
14
$90,000
—
Azul Coast
Bob Baffert
Azul Coast
Bob Baffert
14
$80,500
16
Necker Island
Chris Hartmann
Necker Island
Chris Hartmann
14
$74,808
—
Shoplifted
Steve Asmussen
Shoplifted
Steve Asmussen
13
$424,500
—