The thunder of hooves and the roar of the crowd converge in a timeless American spectacle: The Kentucky Derby. Churchill Downs is not only a kaleidoscope of mint juleps and flamboyant hats but is also a high-stakes betting event, where odds dictate fortunes.
In our comprehensive coverage below, we will analyze the latest odds, decipher the dark horse contenders and share insight into the art of betting on “The Run for the Roses,” at the top betting sites.
2024 Kentucky Derby Info
- Race: 12
- Post Time: 6:45 PM ET
- Race Status: Grade 1
- Distance: 1 1/4 miles
- Conditions: Dirt
- Purse: $5,000,000
- Track: Left-handed
2024 Kentucky Derby Preview
The Kentucky Derby has some chaos added to the proceedings which makes betting on this race a truly fascinating affair.
For the more casual bettor who bets this race for fun, most of what you are about to read matters little. However, this race has become more complex for the more informed horse bettor, adding elements that may mean nothing or will only be completely understood after the race.
Let’s dive into the intricacies of The Run for the Roses, the first jewel of the historic Triple Crown trophy.
When it comes to horse racing betting in the US, it’s vital to consider your local regulations and available markets. For example, in Colorado, Bet365 (check out our Bet365 Review) offers fixed odds, which can be an interesting option to explore. However, it’s the only state to do so.
The prevalent model in the rest of states is pari-mutuel betting. This means that the payout is determined by the closing numbers at the track.
Betting Markets for the Kentucky Derby
Betting on horse racing may seem intimidating, but once you understand the different types of bets available, it becomes much more approachable. Let’s break them down into basic and exotic bets.
Basic Bets
- Win Bet: This is the simplest bet—you pick a horse to come in first. It offers the highest potential payout but carries the most risk because your horse must win for you to win.
- Place Bet: With a place bet, you’re betting on a horse to finish either first or second. This bet has a higher chance of winning than a win bet, but the payout is lower.
- Show Bet: The safest bet among basics, you’re betting on a horse to finish in the top three (first, second, or third). The potential reward is lower, but your chances of winning are higher.
Exotic Bets
For those seeking more excitement and bigger payouts, exotic bets offer a thrill but require more precision.
- Exacta: Predict the first two horses to finish in exact order (e.g., Horse A first, Horse B second).
- Trifecta: Guess the top three horses in the exact order of finish (e.g., Horse A first, Horse B second, Horse C third).
- Superfecta: The most challenging bet—predict the top four horses in the exact order of finish (first, second, third, and fourth).
While exotic bets have larger payouts, they are harder to win due to the need for precise predictions. Understanding the risks and rewards of each bet type is crucial before placing your wager. Start with basic bets to get comfortable, and when you’re ready for more excitement, venture into the world of exotic bets. Happy betting!
Top Kentucky Derby Betting Sites
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2024 Kentucky Derby Top Picks
For the 2024 Kentucky Derby our top picks to win are:
- Sierra Leone at 3-1
- Catching Freedom at 8-1
- Fierceness at 5-2
Our top longshot pick is:
- Honor Marie at 20-1
Top Trifecta and Superfecta Picks (besides the four above):Â
- Forever Young at 10-1
- Mystik Dan at 20-1
- Stronghold at 20-1
- Domestic Product at 30-1
Top Fun Bet: Honor Marie (Win-Place-Show)
Small Win Bet: 1-2 units
Larger Place and Show Wagers: 3-4 units
2024 Kentucky Derby Morning-Line Odds
2024 Kentucky Derby
Field Info
| POST POSITION | HORSE | TRAINER | JOCKEY | ML ODDS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dornoch | Danny Gargan | Luis Saez | 20-1 |
| 2 | Sierra Leone | Chad Brown | Tyler Gaffalione | 3-1 |
| 3 | Mystik Dan | Kenny McPeek | Brian Hernandez | 20-1 |
| 4 | Catching Freedom | Brad Cox | Flavien Prat | 8-1 |
| 5 | Catalytic | Saffie Joseph, Jr. | Jose Ortiz | 30-1 |
| 6 | Just Steel | D. Wayne Lukas | Keith Asmussen | 20-1 |
| 7 | Honor Marie | Whit Beckman | Ben Curtis | 20-1 |
| 8 | Just A Touch | Brad Cox | Florent Geroux | 10-1 |
| 9 | Encino (Scratched) | Brad Cox | Axel Concepcion | 20-1 |
| 10 | T O Password | Daisuke Takayanagi | Kazushi Kimura | 30-1 |
| 11 | Forever Young | Yoshito Yahagi | Ryusei Sakai | 10-1 |
| 12 | Track Phantom | Steve Asmussen | Joel Rosario | 20-1 |
| 13 | West Saratoga | Larry Demeritte | Jesus Castanon | 50-1 |
| 14 | Endlessly | Michael McCarthy | Umberto Rispoli | 30-1 |
| 15 | Domestic Product | Chad Brown | Irad Ortiz, Jr. | 30-1 |
| 16 | Grand Mo The First | Victor Barboza, Jr. | Emisael Jaramillo | 50-1 |
| 17 | Fierceness | Todd Pletcher | John Velazquez | 5-2 |
| 18 | Stronghold | Phil D’Amato | Antonio Fresu | 20-1 |
| 19 | Resilience | Bill Mott | Junior Alvarado | 20-1 |
| 20 | Society Man | Danny Gargan | Frankie Dettori | 50-1 |
| 21 | Epic Ride | John Ennis | Adam Beschizza | 50-1 |
| 22 | Mugatu* | Jeff Engler | Joe Talamo | 50-1 (AE) |
Kentucky Derby Favorites
As the first Saturday in May approaches, all eyes turn to the Churchill Downs, the iconic racetrack where the Kentucky Derby, a famous horse race known as “The Run for the Roses,” unfolds. Amid the pomp and pageantry, there exists a fervor surrounding the odds and favorites. Often, the morning line odds provide early insights, determining who leads the pack as the betting favorite.
Historically, the prep races like the Santa Anita Derby play a crucial role in shaping the betting market. Trainers such as Brad Cox and Chad Brown meticulously prepare their thoroughbreds, looking to replicate the fairy-tale success of Rich Strike, who defied long odds to clinch victory.
This year, eyes are on prospects such as Mystik Dan and Uncle Heavy, both equally primed to be heavy favorites for a HUGE payday.
Taking into account past betting patterns, expert betting guides and insights from horse racing betting sites, punters and enthusiasts alike begin to cement their opinions on who will emerge as the front-runners. Whether it’s the finesse of a seasoned champion or the raw surge of a newcomer, the debate on who will be dubbed the betting favorite is a staple of race day chatter.
Kentucky Derby Contenders
While the spotlight often shines brightest on the betting favorites, the biggest horse race in North America is also known for its surprises. It’s crucial to consider the other contenders that make up the vibrant tapestry of the betting market.
These thoroughbreds, though not headlining as the favorites, often carry compelling stories, seasoned jockeys or impressive performances in lead-up races like the Belmont Stakes.
Sports betting sites and horse racing enthusiasts closely watch these other contenders, analyzing everything from their morning line odds to recent performances on the track. It’s not just about the favorites—betting action can swing significantly in favor of an underdog showing promising signs.
On race day, the betting patterns may change as the betting market adjusts to real-time information. Rumors from the paddock, last-minute changes and live viewing of warm-ups can lead to a flurry of betting activity. Hence, an informed bettor would do well to keep an eye on these alternative champions not just for value, but for the potential of witnessing another underdog story unfold at the Kentucky Derby.
2023 Kentucky Derby Breakdown: Who Won?
As the dust settles on the iconic Churchill Downs racetrack, the 2023 Kentucky Derby has found its winner. In a field bursting with talent, excitement reigned supreme as the thoroughbreds charged toward the finish line. The victor, however, stood out not just for crossing the line first but for capturing the spirit and essence of what it means to conquer one of the world’s most famous horse races.
Understanding the significance of the victory requires delving into the race day’s crucial details, from the prep races at Santa Anita Derby to the betting patterns that gripped horse racing betting sites. The morning line odds, a critical piece of the betting puzzle, set the stage for a potentially HUGE payday for those backing the underdog.
While the heavy favorite, prepped by celebrated trainers like Brad Cox and Chad Brown, may have carried the weight of expectation, it was the synergy of the jockey and the horse, the careful strategy and the sheer will to win that ultimately defined the day.
The biggest horse race thus concluded with a mix of triumph, reflection on betting guides invaluable for the betting market and the anticipation for the upcoming Belmont Stakes, where champions become legends.
How to Read Kentucky Derby Odds
Understanding Kentucky Derby odds is crucial for making informed bets on this famous horse race held at Churchill Downs. The odds, often originating as “morning line odds” set by the track’s handicapper, evolve as betting action unfolds, influenced by betting patterns and market sentiment toward the horses.
Odds are displayed in a fractional format, such as 5-1, which means you would win $5 for every $1 bet, plus your original stake back, if your chosen horse wins. A heavy favorite might be listed with odds like 3-2, indicating a lower potential payday, reflecting their perceived higher chance of winning.
Conversely, a longshot, such as the unexpected 2021 winner Rich Strike, might have much higher odds, offering a HUGE payday for a successful bet.
When reading the odds, one should also consider the results of prep races like the Santa Anita Derby, the reputations of trainers such as Brad Cox or Chad Brown and the horses’ past performances.
During race day, betting guides available at the track and numerous horse racing betting sites provide updated odds, tips and insights to help inexperienced bettors and sharp bettors alike to make their betting decisions.
Here’s an example of how Kentucky Derby odds might be displayed:
| Horse Name | Trainer | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Mystik Dan | Brad Cox | 8-1 |
| Uncle Heavy | Chad Brown | 12-1 |
| Rich Strike | Eric Reed | 20-1 |
Remember, the odds not only reflect the likelihood of each horse winning but also the betting public’s collective opinion, which can fluctuate up to the start of the biggest horse race at Churchill Downs.
How are Kentucky Derby odds made?
Understanding the odds for the Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs, involves a blend of art and science. Morning line odds, a critical starting point on race day, are generated by an oddsmaker whose role encompasses evaluating each horse’s past performance, including prep races like the Santa Anita Derby.
Trainers such as Brad Cox and Chad Brown often have contenders in the race, with horses like Mystik Dan and Uncle Heavy potentially being part of the field. These horses’ performances, training conditions and track records are critical factors influencing their initial odds.
However, these morning line odds adjust as betting action flows in. Horse racing betting sites, alongside various sports betting platforms, reflect real-time market sentiments as punters examine betting guides and analyze betting patterns.
A horse like Rich Strike, once a longshot, can become a HUGE payday for bettors when defying the odds, while a heavy favorite might not always promise the same return.
The betting market’s fluidity ensures that odds constantly evolve, reflecting the collective anticipation and strategies of those eyeing a big score at America’s biggest horse race, alongside prestigious events like the Belmont Stakes.
Where can I bet on the Kentucky Derby?
Betting on the Kentucky Derby, a pinnacle event for horse racing enthusiasts, is accessible both online and in person. You can place your bets at Churchill Downs, the legendary home of this famous horse race or through licensed sportsbooks and horse racing betting sites. These platforms often provide comprehensive betting guides to assist both novice and veteran bettors.
Among the plenty of options are online sports betting sites that have revolutionized the way bets are placed. The variety includes prominent names respected for their reliability and user-friendly interfaces. Here, one can easily find markets for the Kentucky Derby, as well as numerous other horse races.
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1. Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook is highly regarded as an excellent option for betting on events like the Kentucky Derby, thanks to its solid reputation and the backing of Caesars Entertainment, a titan in the gambling industry.
This platform not only offers competitive odds which can make a big difference in payouts for races like the Derby, but it also entices both new and seasoned bettors with attractive promotions and bonuses tailored for big events.
Users can enjoy a wide array of betting options from straightforward win-place-show bets to more intricate wagers like trifectas and superfectas, accommodating all levels of betting expertise. The user experience is seamless across both their website and mobile app, ensuring easy navigation, quick betting and efficient management of funds.
Additionally, Caesars Sportsbook provides the thrill of live betting with real-time updates, adding an extra layer of excitement to your betting experience. Coupled with robust customer support available through multiple channels, Caesars Sportsbook stands out as a top choice for those looking to place bets on the Kentucky Derby.
WHAT ARE THE BEST FEATURES?
Simplicity and intuitiveness of the platform's design
Overall quality of the design and user experience
Assortment of player, team, and game-specific wagers
Offers available upon initial signup
Average time taken to respond to user queries
How the sportsbook's odds stack up against competitors
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- Innovative Custom Bet Requests
- User-friendly Cash-Out Feature with No Fees
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2. Bet365 Sportsbook
Bet365 Sportsbook stands as a top choice for those looking to bet on the Kentucky Derby. Bet365 offers an impressive platform that caters to both seasoned punters and those new to horse racing betting. With real-time odds and markets on virtually every major horse race, including the iconic event at Churchill Downs, it provides a comprehensive betting experience.
At Bet365, users can benefit from detailed form guides and past performance data that are essential for making informed decisions.
The sportsbook’s interface is streamlined and user-friendly, facilitating quick access to betting slips and market choices. For the Kentucky Derby, Bet365 typically features a variety of betting types such as win, place, show, exactas and quinellas, ensuring that every betting strategy is supported.
Betting promos and bonuses are regularly offered, especially around major events, giving bettors additional value. These can include deposit bonuses and free bets, which are especially attractive to new users looking to maximize their initial investment.
WHAT ARE THE BEST FEATURES?
Simplicity and intuitiveness of the platform's design
Overall quality of the design and user experience
Assortment of player, team, and game-specific wagers
Offers available upon initial signup
Average time taken to respond to user queries
How the sportsbook's odds stack up against competitors
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- Attractive $250 welcome bonus
- Extensive in-play betting with live streaming options
- Betway Plus Rewards program
3. Betway Sportsbook
Betway Sportsbook is another excellent platform for those interested in betting on the Kentucky Derby. Recognized for its strong market presence in sports betting, Betway provides a dynamic array of betting opportunities tailored to the needs of horse racing aficionados. The sportsbook is particularly noted for its competitive odds and user-centric interface, which enhance the overall betting experience.
One of the standout features of Betway is its commitment to providing insightful betting tips and race analysis, which are invaluable during events like the Kentucky Derby.
This support helps bettors make more educated decisions based on expert analysis and the latest race data. Additionally, Betway offers a diverse range of bet types including sophisticated options like trifectas, superfectas and multi-race bets, appealing to both novice and experienced bettors.
The exclusive betting promotions at Betway are frequent and generous, particularly around significant racing events. These betting promos might include enhanced odds, cashback offers and special bets that provide more bang for your buck. New users can often find attractive welcome bonuses that make initial bets more rewarding.
For those who prefer betting on the move, Betway’s mobile app offers a seamless experience that mirrors the desktop version. The app is intuitive and fast all while providing full access to all betting markets and tools, including live betting options for those who want to bet as the action unfolds.
WHAT ARE THE BEST FEATURES?
Parity of features compared to the desktop version
User ratings on the Apple App Store
User ratings on the Google Play Store
Features unique to the mobile app
Simplicity and intuitiveness of the platform's design
Load times and responsiveness on various devices
Welcome to our detailed guide to the best online sportsbooks in the United States. Â
Sharpen your skills as a handicapper using our betting tutorials and resources.
Kentucky Derby Horses & Jockey Silks for 2024
The Kentucky Derby, a cornerstone of American horse racing culture, not only showcases some of the finest thoroughbreds in the world but also highlights the colorful and distinctive jockey silks. Each set of silks is a visual representation of the horse’s ownership and often carries historical and emotional significance.
In this section, we delve into the details of the horses and the traditional jockey silks seen at this prestigious event:
Mystik Dan: Winner
- Post Position: 3
- Jockey: Brian Hernandez Jr.
- Trainer: Kenneth McPeek
- Owner: Lance Gasaway, Daniel Hamby III, Valley View Farm LLC and 4G Racing LLC
- Silks Description: White with a large green diamond on the chest, with the initials “LG” inside the diamond. The sleeves have green diamond-shaped accents. The cap is green.
Sierra Leone: 2nd
- Post Position: 2
- Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione
- Trainer: Chad Brown
- Owner: Mrs. John ‘Susan’ Magnier
- Silks Description: Purple with a large green clover on the chest. The collar, cuffs and waistband are accented with thin, horizontal lime-green stripes. The cap is purple.
Forever Young: 3rd
- Post Position: 11
- Jockey: Ryusei Sakai
- Trainer: Yoshito Yahagi
- Owner: Susumu Fujita
- Silks Description: Deep red with two horizontal white stripes on each sleeve. The collar and cuffs are also red.
Catching Freedom: 4th
- Post Position: 4
- Jockey: Flavien Prat
- Trainer: Brad Cox
- Owner: Albaugh Family Stables LLC
- Silks Description: Light blue with a prominent white star on the chest. The sleeves feature two horizontal light blue and white stripes. The cap is light blue.
T O Password: 5th
- Post Position: 10
- Jockey: Kazushi Kimura
- Trainer: Daisuke Takayanagi
- Owner: Tomoya Ozasa
- Silks Description: Bright yellow and red diamond harlequin pattern on the body. The sleeves are solid blue.
Resilience: 6th
- Post Position: 19
- Jockey: Junior Alvarado
- Trainer: William Mott
- Owner: Martin Wygod and Emily Bushnell
- Silks Description: Blue with a lime green diamond pattern on the front and sleeves. The cap is lime green.
Stronghold: 7th
- Post Position: 18
- Jockey: Antonio Fresu
- Trainer: Philip D’Amato
- Owner: Eric and Sharon Waller
- Silks Description: Purple with a large green diamond on the chest that contains the initials “SWJ.” The sleeves feature a purple and green argyle pattern. The cap is green.
Honor Marie: 8th
- Post Position: 7
- Jockey: Ben Curtis
- Trainer: D. Whitworth Beckman
- Owner: Ribble Farms LLC, Michael H. Eiserman, Earl I. Silver, Kenneth E. Fishbein and Daniel Fishbein
- Silks Description: Orange with a large blue circular badge on the chest, featuring the interlocked initials “RF”. The sleeves are orange with the same blue initials “RF” on each arm. The cap is orange.
Endlessly: 9th
- Post Position: 14
- Jockey: John Velazquez
- Trainer: Bob Baffert
- Owner: SF Racing LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables, Robert E. Masterson, Stonestreet Stables LLC, Jay A. Schoenfarber, Waves Edge Capital LLC and Catherine Donovan
- Silks Description: Light blue, pink belt, pink band on sleeves and a plain light blue cap
Dornoch: 10th
- Post Position: 1
- Jockey: Luis Saez
- Trainer: Danny Gargan
- Owner: Jayson R. Werth, R. A. Hill Stable, Belmar Racing and Breeding LLC and West Paces Racing
- Silks Description: Red with a white horizontal stripe on each sleeve. The cap features red and white stripes with a red peak.
Track Phantom: 11th
- Post Position: 12
- Jockey: Joel Rosario
- Trainer: Steve Asmussen
- Owner: L and N Racing LLC, Clark O. Brewster, Jerry Caroom and Breeze Easy LLC
- Silks Description: Black with a series of red chevron stripes across the chest. The sleeves are black with a red band at the cuffs. The cap is solid black.
West Saratoga: 12th
- Post Position: 13
- Jockey: Jesus Castanon
- Trainer: Larry W. Demeritte
- Owner: Harry L. Veruchi
- Silks Description: Yellow with the Colorado state flag on the chest. The sleeves are yellow with purple bands and purple and white stripes at the cuffs. The cap is solid yellow.
Domestic Product: 13th
- Post Position: 15
- Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr.
- Trainer: Chad Brown
- Owner: Klaravich Stables, Inc.
- Silks Description: White with two vertical red stripes on the front. On the chest, there are the red initials “KS”. The sleeves are white with a red band at the cuffs. The cap has red and white stripes.
Epic Ride: 14th
- Post Position: 21
- Jockey: Adam Beschizza
- Trainer: John Ennis
- Owner: Harry L. Veruchi
- Silks Description: Red with a W inside a star on the chest, and blue banding around the sleeves. The cap is blue.
Fierceness: 15th
- Post Position: 17
- Jockey: John Velazquez
- Trainer: Todd Pletcher
- Owner: Repole Stable
- Silks Description: Blue with orange stripes on the sleeves and sides. The chest features a large orange circle with the letter “R” in the center. The cap is orange with a blue peak and bill.
Society Man: 16th
- Post Position: 20
- Jockey: Frankie Dettori
- Trainer: Danny Gargan
- Owner: Danny Gargan, GMP Stables LLC, Reeves Thoroughbred Racing, West Paces Racing and West Paces Racing LLC
- Silks Description: White with a large green diamond on the chest enclosing a white “R”. The sleeves are green and gold argyle. The cap is green and gold striped.
Just Steel: 17th
- Post Position: 6
- Jockey: Keith Asmussen
- Trainer: D. Wayne Lukas
- Owner: BC Stables LLC
- Silks Description: White with one vertical maroon stripe and one vertical green stripe on the front. The sleeves are white with maroon cuffs. The cap is maroon.
Grand Mo the First: 18th
- Post Position: 16
- Jockey: Emisael Jaramillo
- Trainer: Victor Barboza, Jr.
- Owner: Granpollo Stable
- Silks Description: Yellow with a large gray horseshoe on the chest, outlined in red and containing the letter “G” in red. The sleeves have a checkered pattern at the cuffs in red and yellow. The cap is yellow.
Catalytic: 19th
- Post Position: 5
- Jockey: Jose Ortiz
- Trainer: Saffie Joseph Jr.
- Owner: Tami Bobo
- Silks Description: Gray with a lock and key emblem on the chest in navy blue and red. The sleeves have a pattern of blue stars, and the cuffs are also blue. The cap is gray.
Just a Touch: 20th
- Post Position: 8
- Jockey: Florent Geroux
- Trainer: Brad Cox
- Owner: Marc Detampel and Qatar Racing Ltd.
- Silks Description: Bright pink with a pattern of interconnected yellow circles, creating a chain-like design across the body. The cap is pink with a yellow peak.
Encino: Scratched
- Post Position: 9
- Jockey: Axel Concepcion
- Trainer: Brad Cox
- Owner: Godolphin, LLC
- Silks Description: Light blue with two white chevron stripes on each sleeve. The cap is light blue.
Kentucky Derby Post Time
The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as the most exciting two minutes in sports, is traditionally held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
The exact post time for the Derby can vary slightly from year to year, but it typically occurs around 6:50 PM Eastern Time. This timing is strategic, allowing for maximum viewership across different time zones in the United States and globally, ensuring that horse racing enthusiasts and bettors alike do not miss a moment of the action.
The day of the Kentucky Derby is filled with a series of races, with the Derby itself being the pinnacle event. The gates at Churchill Downs usually open early in the morning, with the first race of the day taking place several hours before the Derby. This allows visitors to enjoy a full day of racing action, culminating in the Derby in the late afternoon or early evening.
For bettors, understanding the post time is crucial as betting windows for the Derby race close just a few minutes before the horses are loaded into the gates. It is advised to place bets well in advance, as last-minute technical issues or long lines could disrupt the process.
Understanding Kentucky Derby Betting Odds
Kentucky Derby betting features a mix of fixed-odds and pari-mutuel wagering options, providing a dynamic betting landscape. Prior to the event, numerous horse racing betting sites and sportsbooks offer fixed-odds betting, allowing bettors to lock in odds for their picks well in advance. These odds are often displayed in the American format and typically start with a plus sign, indicating the profit on a $100 bet.
Example: If a horse is listed at +800, a successful $100 wager on this horse would return $800 in profit. These early betting opportunities can be particularly advantageous when bettors have strong predictions about a horse’s chances based on its performance in prep races and training sessions.
On the day of the Kentucky Derby, the track handicapper at Churchill Downs issues the Morning Line odds. These odds represent the handicapper’s prediction of how the betting public will wager and are based solely on win bets. The actual payouts, however, are determined by the pari-mutuel system once the race begins, where all bets are pooled and shared proportionally among winners, minus a management fee.
Throughout the day, as more bets are placed, the odds for each horse can change significantly based on the volume and distribution of wagers.
This dynamic betting environment means that the betting odds can fluctuate up to the moment the horses are loaded into the gates. Bettors should monitor these shifts carefully to place informed bets, understanding that the final payouts are displayed on the tote board, highlighting the returns for each $1, $2 or $0.50 bet placed.
Kentucky Derby betting features a mix of fixed-odds and pari-mutuel wagering options, providing a dynamic betting landscape. Prior to the event, numerous horse racing betting sites and sportsbooks offer fixed-odds betting, allowing bettors to lock in odds for their picks well in advance. These odds are often displayed in the American format and typically start with a plus sign, indicating the profit on a $100 bet.
- Example: If a horse is listed at +800, a successful $100 wager on this horse would return $800 in profit. These early betting opportunities can be particularly advantageous when bettors have strong predictions about a horse’s chances based on its performance in prep races and training sessions.
On the day of the Kentucky Derby, the track handicapper at Churchill Downs issues the Morning Line odds. These odds represent the handicapper’s prediction of how the betting public will wager and are based solely on win bets. The actual payouts, however, are determined by the pari-mutuel system once the race begins, where all bets are pooled and shared proportionally among winners, minus a management fee.
Throughout the day, as more bets are placed, the odds for each horse can change significantly based on the volume and distribution of wagers.
This dynamic betting environment means that the betting odds can fluctuate up to the moment the horses are loaded into the gates. Bettors should monitor these shifts carefully to place informed bets, understanding that the final payouts are displayed on the tote board, highlighting the returns for each $1, $2 or $0.50 bet placed.
Bet Types Available for the Kentucky Derby
When betting on the Kentucky Derby, enthusiasts have a wide range of wagering options available that range from straightforward bets to more complex wagers.
These betting types are typically released online after the post positions are determined.
- Win: The simplest and most common bet, where you place your money on a horse to win the race. If your horse finishes first, you collect.
- Place: A bet on a horse to finish either first or second. This bet offers slightly more flexibility than a win bet, with a correspondingly lower payout.
- Show: A wager on a horse to finish in the top three (first, second or third). This bet has lower payouts but offers a higher chance of winning.
- Exacta: A more complex bet that involves picking the first and second horses in the exact order of finish. This bet requires more precision and thus offers higher payouts.
- Trifecta: Similar to an exacta, but with this bet, you must accurately predict the first three horses in their exact order of finish. The difficulty of hitting a trifecta makes it a high-payout wager.
- Superfecta: An extension of the trifecta where you bet on the first four horses to finish in the exact order. This bet typically offers very high payouts due to its difficulty.
- Pick 3: A bet where the goal is to select the winning horses in three consecutive races. This type of bet can also extend to pick 4, 5 and 6, increasing the challenge and potential rewards with each added race.
Each type of bet offers a different level of risk and potential reward, allowing bettors to choose the strategy that best suits their confidence and betting style. Understanding these options is crucial for anyone looking to engage in betting activities during Kentucky Derby week.
How will horses be selected for the Kentucky Derby?
The selection process for horses to run in the Kentucky Derby, scheduled annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs, is distinctively structured through a series of prep races known as the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
This series includes approximately 35 races worldwide, with each race offering a varying number of points to the top finishers. The horses that accumulate the highest number of points across these races earn their place in the starting gate for the Derby.
The starting positions for the Kentucky Derby are determined through a draw that typically occurs the week of the race. This event is a blend of chance and strategy, crucial for both the horses’ placement and the bettors’ considerations.
During the draw, numbered pills are placed into a lottery-style machine and officials randomly select each pill corresponding to the horses entered in the race. As each number is drawn, the horse’s connections (owner and trainer) choose their post position from the available gates.
This selection process is pivotal as the post position can significantly influence a horse’s performance in the race due to factors like distance to the first turn and potential for traffic.
This method ensures a blend of fairness and strategy, making the draw a highly anticipated event in the lead-up to the Kentucky Derby.
History of the Kentucky Derby
The first Kentucky Derby was held on May 17, 1875, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, a racetrack founded by Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Clark, inspired by the prominent horse races in Europe and eager to showcase the breeding and racing capabilities of North American thoroughbreds, organized the event to be a focal point for Louisville society.
In its inaugural running, the Kentucky Derby had a modest field of fifteen horses and attracted an audience that included the city’s elite.
As the years passed, the Derby grew in prestige and scale, quickly becoming a staple of American sports culture. By the early 20th century, it had cemented its status as one of the premier events in horse racing, drawing spectators and bettors from across the nation and around the world.
Over the decades, the Kentucky Derby has developed numerous traditions that contribute to its unique charm. These include the lavish hats worn by attendees, the mint julep cocktail and the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home” as the horses are paraded before the start of the race.
From the outset, betting was an integral part of the Derby experience. Initially, wagering took place through bookmakers, but in 1908, Churchill Downs introduced the pari-mutuel betting system, revolutionizing the way bets were placed and managed at the track.
This system pooled bets and distributed winnings among successful bettors, a method that provided a more structured and fair betting environment.
Today, the Kentucky Derby not only remains the first leg of the United States Triple Crown of horse racing but also one of the most bet-upon sporting events in the country. The introduction of online betting platforms has further expanded access to betting on the Derby, allowing more fans than ever before to participate in wagering on this historic race.
Kentucky Derby Odds: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bet on the Kentucky Derby?
Yes, you can bet on the Kentucky Derby. It can be done at licensed racetracks, off-track betting facilities and online sportsbooks.
What time do the horses post at the Kentucky Derby?
The post-position draw for the 150th Kentucky Derby race took place on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 6:57 PM ET.
How many horses will be in the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby is a 20-horse field. This means, at maximum capacity, the field can accommodate up to 20 3-year-old racehorses.
Who is favored to win the 2024 Kentucky Derby
Fierceness was the favorite at 5-2 as per the morning-line odds from Churchill Downs. However, Mystik Dan ended up winning it all.
What is the safest betting site?
Anywhere in the U.S. that betting is available, you will be able to find regulated sportsbooks. These online options are fully licensed and overseen by a local gaming authority and feature the latest encryption and security measures so your data is always protected.
How fast do Kentucky Derby horses run?
Horses in the Kentucky Derby run at speeds exceeding 35 mph, covering the 1.25-mile race track. To put this in perspective, this speed is comparable to a marathon runner’s average speed of 12 mph, but significantly slower than a cheetah’s average speed of 70 mph.
Has a horse ever won the Triple Crown?
Yes, several horses have won the prestigious Triple Crown, which consists of winning the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. Some notable Triple Crown winners include Secretariat, Seattle Slew and American Pharoah. These victories are celebrated as remarkable achievements in the sport of horse racing.
