The History of the Kentucky Derby – the prestigious horse race

A horse race is an old tradition, and the Kentucky Derby is one of the most prestigious horse races there is. It has roots in England, but it was early transferred to the states. You can learn much more about the history of this racing event in the following.

Kentucky Derby has since its origin and its move into the states grown into a big industry. And as with any other big sports event and sports genre you can of course engage in Kentucky Derby betting during these which is a quite popular thing to do. As most popular sports there is great support in the competitive world of betting. However, it has always been a part of races such as the Kentucky Derby and every other animal race for that matter. It is quite obvious that it is perfect for placing bets. 

The old tradition of horse races

Horse races are an old tradition that has been a part of the culture since ancient times. Competing with animals is not a new invention and horses have been essential to our possibilities to travel, fight, and so on. The horse has been an important animal for our progress. It makes sense to celebrate its power and strength through an event like the Kentucky Derby. 

The Kentucky Derby race and festival

It is the biggest horse race in the states. Which is quite something as the states are a huge area. The Kentucky Derby is annually held in Louisville in the state of Kentucky. Hence the name. And it is on the very first Saturday in May where it continues into a two-week-long festival. Derby dates to at least 1780 and it might even be older.

It was picked up in England by an American who brought it back to the states. The very first race of the Kentucky Derby was held in 1875 and here it was coined the Kentucky Derby. Today it is still running in the same manner. 

The Kentucky Derby these days

When the Kentucky Derby Race kicks off twenty horses and riders are competing for the honor to win the race. It takes a lot of preparation for the trainers. And they use at least the twelve months up to this date to train and prepare the horses for the race and the entire festival. It is a disciplinary training program as the horse needs to be well-behaved and respond to its trainer.

However, the relationship between the trainer and the horse is respectful and loving as the trainers naturally are very dependent on their horse. The race is played out in the same location every year at the Churchill Downs. The horses and their rider run a distance of 1 ¼ mile. It is not a long-distance race, which means that they run fast. The standard speed for a racing horse in the Kentucky Derby is around 37 miles per hour. 

The horses’ well-being

Some point to the fact that it is mistreating the horses. And want to put an end to horse races. However, it is difficult to figure out if it is decidedly unhealthy and harmful for the horses. Horses like to be ridden and need a great deal of attention which they get through training. So, it seems like this specific race is not hurtful to the horses.

They are frequently checked by a vet to make sure that they are healthy and fit to fight. With the medical attention, you would assume that they would be attentive to the horses’ well-being and make sure that everything runs according to the books.