The Kentucky Derby is Here! Predictions, How to Watch, and More

The Kentucky Derby, also known as the “most exciting two minutes in sports,” is one of the most iconic horse races in the world.

Each year, thousands of people flock to Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, to witness this historic event, and the 2023 Kentucky Derby promises to be just as thrilling as ever.

On Saturday, May 6th, 2023, the Kentucky Derby will feature some of the best three-year-old Thoroughbreds from around the world. The race will cover a distance of 1 1/4 miles (2 kilometers) and offer a purse of $3 million, making it one of the richest horse races in the world.

Leading up to the Kentucky Derby, a series of qualifying races known as the “Road to the Kentucky Derby” was held to determine which horses would win a spot in the starting gate.

These races took place at various racetracks across the country and around the world, and the horses with the most points at the end of the series earned a spot in the Kentucky Derby.

One of the biggest stories leading up to the 2023 Kentucky Derby is the potential for a Triple Crown winner.

The Triple Crown is one of the most prestigious achievements in horse racing and is earned by winning three specific races: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. The last horse to win the Triple Crown was Justify in 2018, and since then, there has been no shortage of horses attempting to follow in his footsteps.

Kentucky Derby Horse Favorites

As for the favorites in the 2023 Kentucky Derby, it’s still too early to tell. However, there are always a few horses that generate buzz leading up to the race.

Some early contenders for the 2023 Kentucky Derby include Essential Quality, who won the 2021 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile and is considered one of the best three-year-olds in the country.

Another horse to keep an eye on is Life Is Good, who has won all three of his starts and is trained by legendary trainer Bob Baffert, who has won the Kentucky Derby a record-tying six times.

Of course, anything can happen on race day, and upsets are not uncommon in the Kentucky Derby. That’s part of what makes the race so exciting, as fans hold their breaths for those two minutes, watching in awe as these majestic animals thunder down the track.

Kentucky Derby Traditions

In addition to the race itself, the Kentucky Derby is also known for its fashion and traditions. Attendees often dress in their best suits and dresses, and the event is famous for its signature drink, the mint julep.

The playing of “My Old Kentucky Home” before the race is also a beloved tradition that has been a part of the Kentucky Derby since 1936.

Overall, the 2023 Kentucky Derby promises to be an unforgettable event. Whether you’re a die-hard horse racing fan or simply looking for a thrilling and unique experience, the Kentucky Derby is an event like no other.

With some of the best horses in the world set to compete, and a backdrop of Southern charm and traditions, the Kentucky Derby is truly an American classic.

Want to watch the Kentucky Derby? Tune in on NBC.com or Peacock from 12pm – 7:30 EST.

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