Kentucky Derby Bets
Online Horse Betting
The Kentucky Derby is the most familiar horse race in the world and the most valued prize that all horse owners dream of winning. This year is the 148th renewal of the $2 million mile and a quarter event for three-year-old thoroughbreds and as usual Derby Fever is brewing in fans, bettors, and horsemen alike.
The Kentucky Derby was first run in 1875, the year Churchill Downs was opened by Col. M. Lewis Clark. He set up three major stakes races for the new track to emulate the three premier races in England: the Epsom Derby, Epson Oaks, and St. Leger Stakes.
Thus were created the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, and Clark Handicap, all of which are still run today.
The first Derby winner was Aristides, a chestnut colt whose statue now stands in the garden behind the clubhouse. Despite the grand plans of Col. Clark, the Derby remained a local race without national importance for decades until new ownership headed by Col. Matt Winn took over the track in 1902. Winn was an excellent promoter and turned the track around to show its first profitable year in 1903, 28 years after it first opened. Winn was responsible for many expansions and improvements to the track and used publicity to build the Kentucky Derby into the major racing event it is today.
The Kentucky Derby today is a major media event with hundreds of reporters, photographers, and television and radio crews descending on the track for Derby week. It also attracts many celebrities. Spring Fashion is showcased by attendees, and is an undeniably important part of this legendary race. Hats and colorful dresses are worn by the ladies, while sports jackets complimented by colorful ties or funky bows can be found adorning the gentlemen.
Fans across the country follow the prospects for the race from January, when the first prep races are run, up until the event and millions tune in to watch on NBC television. Millions more place wagers on the race around the world with the first future bets usually starting up right after the Breeders’ Cup races the previous year. Everyone seems to want to have at least a $2 bet on the Derby whether it is at a simulcast outlet, OTB, race book, or online wagering service.