Kentucky Derby 137
Churchill Downs
Saturday May 7th 2011

The Kentucky Derby, known as the “Most Exciting 2 Minutes in Sports”, is a Grade I stakes race for three year-old Thoroughbred horses. Held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs every year since its inauguration in 1875, the Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Horse Racing and the conclusion of the two week Kentucky Derby Festival.

Even though the Derby mostly features Colts and Geldings, many Fillies have made appearances in the “Run for the Roses”, including winners Winning Colors in 1988, Genuine Risk in 1980 and Regret in 1915

While visiting Churchill Downs on Derby Day, you may not want to forget your Derby hat. The Derby hat is almost a must for spectators and range from small to large…from elegant to outrageous. If you forget you hat, not to worry as there are plenty of places in Louisville to buy one.

Don't forget to keep your eye open for celebrities when you are at Churchill Downs. The Kentucky Derby attracts many top entertainers, athletes, musician and even the Queen of England in 2007.

While people watching can be fun, nothing compares to the beautiful horses that are featured on the full day of races that start in the morning.

Derby Facts
Distance: 1.25 Miles (Ten Furlongs)
Track: Dirt
Qualifications: 3 Year Old
Weight: Colt/Gelding - 126 lbs (Filly: 121 lbs)
Purse: $2 Million
Fastest Record: 1:59.40 (1973 by Secretariat)
Official Drink: Mint Julep (bourbon, mint and sugar syrup)
Song: My Old Kentucky Home

Recent Winners
2010 - Super Saver
2009 – Mine that Bird
2008 – Big Brown
2007 – Street Sense
2006 – Barbaro
2005 – Giacomo
2004 – Smarty Jones
2003 – Smarty Jones
2002 – War Emblem
2001 – Monarchos
2000 – Fusaichi Pegasus

Please visit the Kentucky Derby website for more information