Oh boy, it’s time for the Kentucky Derby again! The most exciting two minutes in sports! The race is set to take place on May 7th, 2022, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. It’s been run every year since 1875, making it the oldest continuously held major sporting event in the United States. And let me tell you, it’s quite a spectacle.
Let’s Talk Odds
So, who’s the favorite to win this year’s Kentucky Derby? Well, the odds are ever-changing, but we’ve got a few contenders. As of January 14th, 2022, the current favorite is Essential Quality at 8-1 odds. Hot Rod Charlie is another top pick at 10-1 odds. And keep your eye on Concert Tour at 12-1 odds.
Who’s in the Running
The field for this year’s Kentucky Derby is still taking shape, but we know a few horses who have secured their spot. Essential Quality is definitely racing, and so is Medina Spirit, who won the Kentucky Derby last year. Highly Motivated and Caddo River are also expected to race.
How to Bet
The Post Position Draw
The post position draw is a big deal in horse racing, and it’s especially important for the Kentucky Derby. The post position draw determines which gate each horse starts from. This can greatly affect their chances of winning. For example, horses starting from the inside gates have less distance to run to the first turn, but may get boxed in. Horses starting from the outside gates have more room to move, but may have to cover more ground.
Latest Movers and Shakers
The rankings for the Kentucky Derby are always changing, based on a horse’s recent performances and other factors. Here are some of the latest movers and shakers:
- Dynamic One’s win in the Wood Memorial bumped him up to #2 in the rankings.
- Hot Rod Charlie’s strong showing in the Louisiana Derby moved him up to #3.
- Rock Your World’s victory in the Santa Anita Derby moved him up to #4.
- Sainthood’s second-place finish in the Jeff Ruby Steaks moved him onto the rankings at #13.
The Race Itself
And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the race itself. The Kentucky Derby is a 1 1/4 mile race, and it’s open to three-year-old Thoroughbreds. The race usually features a full field of 20 horses, with up to four also-eligibles in case any of the main field scratches before the race. The winner receives a blanket of roses, hence the nickname “The Run for the Roses.”
Who Won Last Year?
In case you missed it, last year’s Kentucky Derby was won by Medina Spirit. He went off at 12-1 odds and led wire-to-wire to win by a half-length. Essential Quality finished in fourth place.
How to Watch
If you can’t make it to Churchill Downs in person, don’t worry! The Kentucky Derby is broadcast on NBC, so check your local listings to find out when and where to watch. You can also stream the race live on the NBC Sports app or NBCSports.com.
So there you have it, folks. Everything you need to know about the Kentucky Derby. Get ready to place your bets and watch the most exciting two minutes in sports!
