Welcome to the 2024 KY Derby Trail
Welcome to the thrilling world of horse racing as we gear up for the 150th edition of the Kentucky Derby! As one of the world’s premier horse races, the Kentucky Derby attracts thousands of eager fans to Louisville each year, creating an unforgettable weekend filled with sport, tradition, and entertainment. Join me at Billy Ho Sports to track the 2024 Derby contenders as they make their debut on the road to glory.
This year’s Kentucky Derby, celebrating its 150th birthday on Saturday, May 4th, 2024, promises to be a spectacular event. Witness the excitement unfold as horses are added to the list after their first starts. Keep coming back to stay updated on the newest runners and witness the contenders climb the rankings. Could there be another Mage or Rich Strike among them? Let’s explore together!
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Road to the Derby Schedule
The journey to the Kentucky Derby begins with the Prep Races, kicking off in September and culminating in April. The ultimate goal? Qualifying for the grand event on May 4th, 2024. Only 20 horses will secure a spot at the starting gates under the iconic twin spires of Churchill Downs, making the road long and demanding. Only the strongest will prevail. Get a head start on identifying the future 3-year-old stars by delving into the upcoming prep races.
Unfamiliar with the Derby qualification process? It’s based on a points system, with each prep race awarding points to the top 4 finishers. The winner claims a significant 40% of the points, while 2nd and 3rd place secure 30% and 20%, respectively, leaving 10% for the 4th position. KY Derby Prep Races
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It’s a Three-Legged Race
With nearly 50 races on the horizon, I’ve divided them into three legs. Leg 1 features mostly lower-level stakes races, totaling 10 points. Keep an eye out for two Grade 1 opportunities, including the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile and the Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun in Japan, won by Fierceness on December 13th.
Leg 2 spans from January to February, showcasing primarily Grade 3 events with stakes on the rise. Highlight races include the Risen Star at Fairgrounds and the Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park, both offering a substantial 50 points. By this point, we’ll have a clearer picture of the top contenders.
Our final leg leads us to the 150th running of the KY Derby, where we witness the contenders gain separation and solidify their positions for the Triple Crown. Embark on this true Derby trail stretch with prominent Graded stakes like the Fountain of Youth (GII), UAE Derby (GII), and both the Florida (GI) and Santa Anita Derby’s (GI). Stay tuned for an exhilarating journey towards horse racing history!
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