The Longines Kentucky Oaks has evolved into the most important North American race restricted to 3-year-old fillies, and the 1 1/8-mile dirt race will be the marquee event on Friday, May 1, at Churchill Downs.
Tag: Racing
SLIDESHOW: Get to Know the 2026 Kentucky Derby Contenders
Each spring America’s Best Racing compiles a slideshow with photos of the talented cast of 3-year-olds on target for the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve.Â
Just the Facts: What You Need to Know About Favorites in the Kentucky Derby
Up to 20 lightly raced 3-year-old Thoroughbreds get loaded into the starting gate with somewhere in the neighborhood of 150,000 fans (many well-lubricated) whipped into a frenzy. Approximately two minutes after the horses begin the cavalry charge down the stretch for the first time, a new Kentucky Derby winner is feted in the winner’s circle.
Byron King’s Derby Dozen for April 16
BloodHorse news editor Byron King presents his weekly Derby Dozen for 2026, with a look at his leading contenders for the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve on May 2.