Horse racing is often referred to as “The Sport of Kings,” creating the impression that only those with incredible wealth can participate … and it is, no doubt, very expensive to own a horse much less a racehorse. But the reality is you don’t need to be a monarch or a Sheikh or a titan of industry to own a Kentucky Derby starter, or winner for that matter.
Tag: Racing
Meet the Jockeys of the 2026 Kentucky Derby
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).
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.
2026 Kentucky Oaks Cheat Sheet
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.
