The Kentucky Derby has a long history as the longest running sporting event in the United States. It dates back to 1875, when 15 thoroughbred horses ran 1.5 miles in front of 10,000 spectators in the first Kentucky Derby.
Now the Kentucky Derby is an event not only attended by thousands each year, including many A-list celebrities, but also an event watched by millions at home. Many get involved in the two-minute race each year, while watching, hosting parties, or placing bets.
Read more about the history of the Kentucky Derby.
- What is the story behind the Kentucky Derby?
- Where is the Kentucky Derby located?
- What are the notable traditions of the Kentucky Derby?
- How many horses run in the Kentucky Derby?
- Why do people wear big hats to the Kentucky Derby?
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The Kentucky Derby dates back to 1875. (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
1. What is the story behind the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby was started by the grandson of William Clark of Lewis and Clark.
Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. opened the Kentucky Derby, according to the Kentucky Derby website. He was inspired to bring a horse racing event to the United States after visiting the Epsom Derby in England, which began in 1780.
With the help of his uncles, John and Henry Churchill, who gave him the land for the racetrack, he brought his vision to life.
Clark raised funds through a group called the Louisville Jockey Club. In 1875, 10,000 people gathered to watch the first Kentucky Derby that Aristides won, according to the site.
The Kentucky Derby has always taken place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
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2. Where is the Kentucky Derby located?
The Kentucky Derby is located at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This has been the location of the derby since its inception, although it has been renovated over the years.
3. What are some Kentucky Derby traditions?
Through the many years that it has been a popular event, numerous traditions have stepped in to stay, including the presence of roses.
The race is often referred to as the «Race for the Roses». The red rose has been the official flower of racing since 1904, according to the Kentucky Derby website. The winning horse is covered with a garland made of the flower.
Another Kentucky Derby tradition is the singing of «My Old Kentucky Home,» which the University of Louisville Marching Band plays almost every year at the derby, according to the Kentucky Derby website.
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The mint julep is a popular cocktail served at the Kentucky Derby. (Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Of course, the guests are draped in fancy hats and outfits and the mint julep is a popular cocktail served.
Nearly 120,000 mint julep cocktails are sold during Kentucky Derby weekend, according to the site.
Finally, every year millions of bets are placed on the horse race.
4. How many horses run in the Kentucky Derby?
Every year, 20 horses compete in the Kentucky Derby, according to the event’s website. The horse race used to be 1.5 miles long but is now a 1.25 mile race.
To win a place in the derby, the horse must be an experienced racer. There are 35 races taking place across the country that are known as the «Road to the Kentucky Derby,» according to the site. The best four horses in each of the races receive points. At the end of the races, the 20 horses with the most points win entry to the Kentucky Derby.
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The fashion at the Kentucky Derby is like no other, with the giant, elaborate hats worn by spectators. (Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)
5. Why do people wear big hats to the Kentucky Derby?
If you’ve ever seen photos or videos of the Kentucky Derby, chances are you’re aware of the huge hats worn by attendees.
Some say the hats bring good luck, while others say they keep the sun out of your eyes while you watch, but mostly, it’s because the event is high class and couture.
From the beginning, Clark envisioned the Kentucky Derby as an event for the upper class, much like the events he attended in Europe, according to the event’s website.
The fashion quickly became a Kentucky Derby staple and huge or unique hats, in particular, became an eye-catching accessory.