Kentucky Derby 2024: What to know about the first leg of horse racing's Triple Crown
The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday at the storied Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky.
Traditionally held on the first Saturday in May, the Derby marks the first leg of the Triple Crown. The 20-horse field features only 3-year-olds running the 1 ¼ mile stampede for a chance to compete for their share of the $5 million purse.
Notably absent from this year’s race will be Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, who’s two-year ban was extended through 2024, making this the third Kentucky Derby that a Baffert-trained horse will not be competing.
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A six-time winner at the Derby, Baffert was banned after 2021 Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit was stripped of the title following a failed postrace drug test.
Here’s what else you need to know about the gates drop at Churchill Downs.
Fierceness, the Todd Pletcher-trained colt, is the 3-1 favorite to win. Fierceness won the Florida Derby by 13 1/2 lengths in his last race.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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