Winning the Kentucky Derby is the goal of any Thoroughbred jockey due to several factors. First, it’s the most famous and prestigious race in the world, and that’s enough for most riders. Second, it presents a challenge unlike any other race, requiring a jockey to navigate his horse 1 ¼ miles among a field with up to 19 opponents and in front of about 150,000 screaming fans. And, oh yeah, third: the victorious Kentucky Derby jockey will receive approximately 10% of the winner’s share of the purse, or $310,000 out of $3.1 million (from the total purse of $5 million this year).
Author: News
2026 Kentucky Derby Post Positions by the Numbers
The Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve is rightfully known as the most exciting two minutes in sports; once the Churchill Downs starting gate springs open anything can (and often does) happen. For the 20 3-year-old Thoroughbreds expected to compete in 2026 it is one of the most important moments of their lives, and racing luck can make or break their Derby run from the start.
Where to Watch/Listen: Horse Racing Coverage April 22-26
We’re less than two weeks away from horse racing’s biggest event of the year, and contenders for the 152nd Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve continue to arrive at Churchill Downs in advance of the cutoff date of Saturday, April 25.
The 48-Year Love Story That Produced Kentucky Derby Contender So Happy
The 152nd Kentucky Derby will be charged with emotion for many fans, but none more so than 94-year-old Leverett Miller, breeder of Santa Anita Derby winner So Happy.
