The Kentucky Derby: a complete guide

When and where is the Kentucky Derby run?

The race takes place on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The winner is draped in a blanket of roses, which gives the race its nickname.

What makes the race distinctive?

• Only three-year-old thoroughbreds can run, so each horse gets one chance.
• The distance is a mile and a quarter on dirt.
• The field is large, often up to 20 runners, which makes the start and early positioning crowded.
• It opens the US Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

Which betting markets are common?

• Win: your horse must finish first.
• Place or each-way: your horse must finish in the paid places, depending on the market's terms.
• Forecast or exacta: pick the first two finishers in order.
• Tricast or trifecta: pick the first three in order.

What should you consider before betting?

A big field means more traffic and more luck in running, so favourites lose more often than in smaller races. Check the draw position, recent form in prep races and whether the horse has run on dirt. When the race is listed, you'll find it under horse racing on your Powerplay247 ID.