180 likes | 202 Views
Dive into the rich history and thrilling moments of the Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs in Louisville every first Saturday in May since 1875. Learn about the iconic "Run for the Roses" race, the significance of the garland of red roses, jockeys' gear, and the vibrant Derby Festival activities. Discover fun facts like the original race distance, the diverse silk patterns, and the electrifying atmosphere that makes the Kentucky Derby a must-see event. Get ready to witness this year's contenders and experience the magic of horse racing at its finest!
E N D
KENTUCKY DERBY • CHURCHILL DOWNS IN LOUISVILLE • FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY
MAY 17, 1875 • First Kentucky Derby was won by Aristides. Oliver Lewis, a black jockey won the first race. • Admission to the first derby was only 50 cents.
RUN FOR THE ROSES • The winning horse receives a garland of red roses and a large trophy. • The garland is made by Kroger and the public is invited to watch each year.
THE RACE • The race distance was 1 ½ miles for the first 20 years. • The race distance is now 1 ¼ miles. • Sometimes called the “most exciting two minutes in sports”.
THE RACE • 3 year old horses run in the derby. • Each colt must carry 126 pounds. • Each filly must carry 121 pounds.
JOCKEYS • Each jockey weighs around 110 pounds. • Equipment includes saddle, whip, boots, safety helmet and silks. • Each owner has a special silk design. • Different silk patterns help people keep track of their horses as they race.
DERBY FESTIVAL • Activities are planned for the two weeks prior to the race. • THUNDER OVER LOUISVILLE is a fireworks display over the Ohio river. • Steamboat races, Pegasus Parade, hot air balloon race, Governor's breakfast and an air show are other activities during the week.
HOT AIR BALOON RACE • The hot air balloon race starts at the fair grounds. • Balloons try to fly to a target and drop a flour sack on a bull’s eye. • The closest one wins the race.
KENTUCKY OAKS • On the first Friday in May the Kentucky Oaks race is held at Churchill Downs. • This race is only for fillies (girl horses).
Winner 130th Derby, 2004 SMARTY JONES
131st Derby • May 7, 2005 • Tickets for “Millionaires Row” $4300 • VIP Tickets $865-2650 • Tickets for grandstand $395-655 • Infield tickets $30-200
Who Will Win This Year? High Fly? Bellamy Road? Sun King?
The Kentucky Derby • First Saturday in May • 3 year old horses • Two week long Derby Festival precedes the race. • Many famous people, politicians, people from around the world visit Kentucky for the Derby.
Information and pictures taken from churchilldowns.com , kdf.org , derbymuseum.org http://www.horse-races.net/library/tc05/tc-sunking.htm http://www.ticketsquick.com/KentuckyDerby.shtm Presentation created by Tracy Taylor and adapted by Becky Stephens and updated by Kathye D. Greene. Credits