Know Before You Bet: Kentucky Derby Facts, Figures, And History

The highly anticipated start of the horse race betting season is just around the corner, as the 149th edition of the Kentucky Derby takes place this Saturday, May 6. This prestigious event will be hosted at the iconic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

Massachusetts now offers live online horse betting apps, providing horse racing enthusiasts in the state with numerous options for wagering on this year’s Derby.

Let’s dive into some Kentucky Derby facts, figures, and history before you place your bets.

Kentucky Derby facts & figures

The Kentucky Derby, which was initially held in 1875, has transformed into the most renowned event in horse racing.

Churchill Downs attracts up to 150,000 spectators annually, who indulge in approximately 120,000 mint juleps, the iconic drink of the Derby. WalletHub’s research suggests that a staggering half a million cans of beer will also be served at the venue.

The sale of thoroughbred horses participating in the Kentucky Derby reached a remarkable $1.28 billion last year, marking an 11% growth compared to the previous year. Following the trend, it is expected that this year’s “Run for the Roses” will feature horses valued at over $1 billion collectively.

Once the race concludes, a total of 400 hand-sewn roses will adorn the victorious horse, forming a blanket that weighs approximately 40 pounds.

The anticipated prize money for the 2023 Kentucky Derby is projected to reach $3 million. The champion horse shall receive a substantial reward of $1.86 million, while the second-place finisher will be awarded $600,000. The third-place contender will secure a respectable sum of $300,000, with the fourth-place contestant earning $150,000. Lastly, the fifth-place participant will walk away with a commendable amount of $90,000.

Regardless of unfavorable weather conditions, anticipate the race to proceed. Throughout its history, the Kentucky Derby has never experienced a cancellation or postponement due to weather.

The sport is primarily dominated by males, with only three fillies achieving victory at the Kentucky Derby: Regret in 1915, Genuine Risk in 1980, and Winning Colors in 1988.

Kentucky Derby is a major betting event

According to WalletHub, the Kentucky Derby witnessed a staggering $274 million in wagers last year. Despite the presence of legal sportsbooks this year, the Kentucky Derby is still expected to be a significant betting occasion in Massachusetts.

Forte, the victor of the Florida Derby in early April, is currently favored at 3-1 by FanDuel Racing Massachusetts oddsmakers. It is worth mentioning that the Kentucky Derby has not been won by the favorite since 2018.

Up to 20 horses are eligible to participate in the race, which spans a distance of 1 1/4 miles. The Triple Crown of horse racing continues with the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, taking place within the next five weeks.

The Road to the Kentucky Derby is a series of races that start in September and culminate in the May 6 running at Churchill Downs. Horses compete in these races to earn a spot in the Derby. Among them, Forte has accumulated the highest number of points, with a total of 190. Impressively, Forte has also secured victory in five consecutive races. Nevertheless, it has been nearly a decade since the horse with the most points has emerged as the winner of the Derby.

Bay Staters now have the opportunity to try out FanDuel Racing as a new wagering option this year. The app offers a horse racing 101 section, live streaming for all races, unique betting options, attractive sign-up bonuses, and much more.

Bet on Kentucky Derby at Suffolk Downs

Apart from the trio of retail casinos (Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino), Suffolk Downs offers the opportunity to witness and place bets on the Kentucky Derby through pari-mutuel betting. This allows your wager to join forces with numerous others from Massachusetts and neighboring states, contributing to the creation of a substantial prize pool.

Suffolks Downs, situated in East Boston, was established in the 1930s. Although live horse racing is no longer held, Suffolks Downs now offers simulcasts of horse races.

Suffolks Downs, known for hosting some of the most renowned horses in U.S. history such as Seabiscuit and Whirlaway, has a rich history dating back to its early days. Although briefly closed in 1986, the track reopened under new ownership and continued its legacy into the 21st century. However, with the rise of competing entertainment options and a decline in interest towards live horse racing, Suffolks Downs had to adapt and change its direction.

After its final live horse race in 2019, Suffolks Downs reopened in 2021 post-pandemic, offering only live simulcast options.

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