Who holds the record at the Kentucky Derby?

Publish date: 2024-06-23

The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as "the most exciting two minutes in sports," is a prestigious horse racing event held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Throughout its long history, the race has seen remarkable performances and remarkable record holders. Let's explore in detail who holds the record at the Kentucky Derby.

Fastest Finishing Times

Secretariat:

In 1973, Secretariat made history by setting a world record time of 1 minute, 59.4 seconds, which stands as the course record 50 years later.
Secretariat's incredible performance not only earned him the Kentucky Derby win but also established a record that remains unmatched.
The horse's closing quarter-mile time of 23 seconds is a record that still stands today, showcasing his exceptional speed and endurance.

Monarchos:

In 2001, Monarchos came the closest to eclipsing Secretariat's time, winning the Derby in 1:59.97, making him the only other horse to finish the 1 ¼-mile race in under 2 minutes.

Largest Margin of Victory

The largest margin of victory for a Derby winner is eight lengths, a feat achieved four times. One of the notable instances was in 1946 when Assault won by this impressive margin.

Most Derby Wins by Jockeys and Trainers

Jockeys Eddie Arcaro and Bill Hartack share the record for the most Derby wins, with five wins apiece. In the trainers' category, Ben Jones and Bob Baffert hold the record with six Derby wins each.

Historic Upsets and Notable Achievements

Donerail:

The greatest upset in Derby history occurred in 1913 when Donerail won at odds of 91–1, surprising many with his unexpected victory.

Filly Winners:

The first filly to win the Kentucky Derby was Regret in 1915, and she was followed by Genuine Risk in 1980 and Winning Colors in 1988, who are the only other fillies to have won the race.

Historical Significance and Legacy

The Kentucky Derby's rich history is deeply intertwined with cultural and social conflicts, as well as pivotal moments that have shaped the event's legacy. The race's role in reflecting race relations in the United States, including African Americans’ participation, has been a significant aspect of its history.

The Kentucky Derby has seen remarkable performances and record-breaking feats over the years. From Secretariat's unmatched world record time to historic upsets and the remarkable achievements of jockeys and trainers, the Derby's legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of horse racing history. As the race continues to captivate audiences, its record holders and their extraordinary achievements remain an integral part of its enduring allure.