The Kentucky Derby is right around the corner! On May 3, 2025, Churchill Downs will once again welcome thousands of racing fans for the iconic event. The day, which is more of a festival, brings a lot of excitement with all the history and the tradition it involves. So whether you’re planning to watch from the stands or tune in from home, you will need some preparations.
Before you start picking your favourites, it’s best to know exactly what to expect this year, from a race that is only two minutes long. Yes, all the fuss is for two minutes! It’s the huge build-up around it that makes the Derby such a big deal. And if you’re looking to place a wager, downloading the Betway app is a simple way to stay connected and without even having to wait until May. You can keep track of the odds and make your selections from pretty much anywhere.
The Derby’s History in A Nutshell
First and foremost, it’s worth mentioning that the Kentucky Derby is the longest continuously held sporting event in America! No other sports event in the U.S has been held every single year, without any breaks or cancellations, for as long as the Kentucky Derby has. For over 150 years, the Derby has been an integral part of American horse racing and is probably the most famous race in the US (and in the world). It’s the first race of the Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. Only 13 horses managed to win all three races in the same year. A horse named Justify pulled off the last triple win in 2018.
The Derby is held in Louisville, Kentucky, at Churchill Downs. It’s a race exclusive for three-year-old thoroughbreds, run over a distance of one and a quarter miles (2,011 meters, sometimes rounded to 2,012 meters). And while the gorgeous horses are the stars of the show, the crowd plays its part too. The event is world-famous for its fashion, with spectators dressed in colourful outfits and elaborate, often wild, hats. It also routinely draws the biggest celebrities in sports, entertainment, business, and politics, who enjoy the race from luxury suites, VIP areas, and of course the famous Millionaire’s Row.
What Makes the 2025 Derby Worth Following?
In two words: competitive and unexpected. As for now, several promising horses are standing out in the early prep races. Names like Fierce Warrior and Silver Crest are starting to appear more often in predictions, but of course, anything can change by May. Injuries, training setbacks, the weather is playing and even a “bad day” for the horse or the jockey play a big role in the outcome.
Trainer Brad Cox, who won the 2021 Derby with Mandaloun after a disqualification, is back with a few contenders this year. Being a serious name in recent seasons, many are watching to see if he can add another win to his record.
On top of the racing, the 2025 Derby is expected to bring some updates to the fan experience as Churchill Downs has completed parts of a long-term renovation project, which means better seating, improved views of the track, and upgraded dining areas. That is great if you’re one of the lucky ones to attend in person.
How to Watch and Where to Bet
If you’re planning to watch the race, coverage will be available through major sports networks. There are also streaming options if you prefer to follow along on your phone or laptop. The race time is usually around 6:45 p.m. Eastern Time, but the full day of racing begins much earlier and is worth the following, so it’s better to stay tuned.
Betting is another major part of the Derby that draws attention with wild bets like the ones by Jim McIngvale, who’s also known as “Mattress Mack” – who placed Kentucky Derby bets worth well over $1 million, without winning (yet). People who don’t usually wager often get involved just for this event, but still it’s important to research the horses, look at recent performances, and follow expert insights. Betway offers all of this in one place, so you can keep up without needing multiple sources.
Our Final Words
The Kentucky Derby has rightfully earned its place as one of the most watched horse races in the world. It’s genuinely not just about the winner, but it’s about the entire experience. From the traditions like singing “My Old Kentucky Home” together to the thrill of the winning horse charging down the final stretch, every part of the day has something to offer and it is a special and extraordinary experience.
As the 2025 Derby gets closer, keeping an eye on the top contenders, the weather forecast, and any last-minute changes can help you enjoy the event to the fullest.
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