The Kentucky Derby is scheduled for May 7 in Churchill Downs. Twenty thoroughbred horses will be thundering around the track during the mile and a quarter race, as approximately 155,000 fans cheer them on.
The Derby is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. It is also the longest running sporting event in America, commonly called “the most exciting two minutes in sports.”
So far, speculation is being offered about who will take home the $1.86 million prize from the $3 million pool.
The favorite to win the event is Epicenter, according to CBS Sports. He is a Steve Asmussen-trained horse who has won four of his last five races. According to the Kentucky Derby, “Asmussen is the all-time leading trainer of winners in North America, but so far, the Kentucky Derby has eluded him.”
Over the last weekend, Epicenter took on Echo Zulu in their most serious workouts before the Derby. Churchill Downs Media Team reported Epicenter at six furlongs, 1:12.20, and Echo Zulu at six furlongs, 1:11.80.
These are not the only horses that fans are keeping an eye on before the event. Other top horses include Messier, Taiba, Zandon, Mo Donegal, and Smile Happy. In past events, Zandon has made a mark on experts.
“Racing fans caught a glimpse of two 2022 Kentucky Derby horses on April 9, when Zandon hit the gas on the final turn and passed Smile Happy in the Blue Grass Stakes,” said CBS Sports. “Zandon is one of three horses that come into the 148th Run for the Roses at 6-1 in the latest 2022 Kentucky Derby odds, while Smile Happy checks in at 14-1.”
As with any event, there is always a chance of a surprising victor, so an “underdog” victory is still possible despite the predictions made. SportLine, the prediction software, does not discredit this possibility and notes the winner last year, Medina Spirit, won despite 12-1 odds.
This event is an important staple in Kentucky and deeply ingrained within culture. It also closely watched by the Asbury community as the university has a renowned equine program.
“The Derby is almost like the equivalent of the Olympics [in horse racing]; the best of the best are there, and if you’re lucky enough to make it, everyone knows who you are,” said Alexandra Salvaterra.
