6 popular Kentucky Derby traditions, explained
Published in Slideshow World
The Kentucky Derby is one of the most iconic events and horse races on the calendar. The first leg of the Triple Crown occurs annually on the first Saturday in May, when thousands of people flock to Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, to watch (and place bets on) what's often considered "The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports." The bugle sounds, the gates open, and 20 thoroughbreds sprint around the dirt track hoping to become part of history.
OLBG sourced numerous online sites including The Athletic, The Southern Blueprint, and more to examine the Kentucky Derby's fascinating traditions and the details behind them.
The origins of the pomp and circumstance began in the late 19th century, thanks to Col. Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of famous American explorer William Clark. On an 1872 European trip that involved stops in England and France, Clark Jr. witnessed various esteemed horse races and became inspired to enhance the sport within the United States. Soon after returning home, he founded the Louisville Jockey Club, a site that would later be named Churchill Downs. The inaugural race took place in 1875 in front of 10,000 spectators, who watched Aristides prevail over 14 other horses in the 12-furlong (around 1.5 miles) running.
In the decades since, the Kentucky Derby has grown from a simple race into a global phenomenon, attracting all kinds of celebrities and bigwigs, dressed in decorative attire with a signature cocktail in hand. These are just a couple of the traditions that have emerged around Derby weekend, which has spawned an entire month of festivities throughout the Louisville area, including fireworks and air shows, along with steamboat races, marathons, and parades. Outside of the majesty of galloping horses, Churchill Downs supplies plenty of iconography—the venue's twin spires, grandstands, and flower-filled infield—that makes it an experience to remember forever.
As we approach the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, here's a list and more background about the event's signature staples that you'll be able to see throughout race day.
Visit thestacker.com for similar lists and stories.