The Kentucky Derby is an annual horse race held in Louisville, Kentucky, United States. It is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old Thoroughbreds at a distance of one and a quarter miles.
2021 Kentucky Derby Results
The 2021 Kentucky Derby was held on May 1, 2021, and was won by Medina Spirit, ridden by jockey John Velazquez and trained by Bob Baffert. The horse was owned by Zedan Racing Stables. The second place was taken by Mandaloun, ridden by Florent Geroux, and the third place was taken by Hot Rod Charlie, ridden by Flavien Prat.
History of Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby was first held in 1875 and is the longest-running sporting event in the United States. The race was inspired by the Epsom Derby in England and was originally 1.5 miles long. The distance was changed to 1.25 miles in 1896.
The first Kentucky Derby was won by a horse named Aristides, ridden by jockey Oliver Lewis. The race was attended by around 10,000 people and the winning purse was $2,850.
Kentucky Derby Traditions
The Kentucky Derby is known for its rich traditions, including the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home” by the crowd before the race begins. The winning horse is draped with a blanket of roses, which is why the race is sometimes referred to as the “Run for the Roses.”
Mint juleps are also a popular tradition at the Kentucky Derby. The drink is made with bourbon, sugar, water, and mint leaves and is served in a silver cup.
Controversies in Kentucky Derby History
Over the years, there have been several controversies surrounding the Kentucky Derby. In 1968, Dancer’s Image won the race but was later disqualified after a drug test revealed the presence of a banned substance in the horse’s system.
In 2019, Maximum Security crossed the finish line first but was disqualified for interference, and Country House was declared the winner. It was the first time in the history of the race that the winner was disqualified.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Derby is a historic and beloved horse racing event that has been held for over a century. The 2021 Kentucky Derby was won by Medina Spirit, ridden by jockey John Velazquez and trained by Bob Baffert. The race is known for its rich traditions and controversies that have marked its long history.
