THE KENTUCKY DERBY



JUST OUT OF THE GATE

One of the most exciting yearly events in Louisville is the Kentucky Derby, a mile and a quarter race for One million dollars, a blanket of roses and fame and glory.


SILVER CHARM

The 1997 Kentucky Derby winner was Silver Charm, who won over Captain Bodgit in a photo finish. He went on to win the Preakness and lose the Belmont and the Triple Crown.


REAL QUIET
drawing by Leroy Neiman

Last year, 1998, the favorite's were Favorite Trick, Coronado's Quest, Real Quiet, Lil's Lad, Indian Charlie and Victory Gallop, not necessarily in that order. As it turned out, Real Quiet was the winner.

FAVORITE TRICK

Horse of the year in 1998. Favorite Trick ran fifth for the first mile of the race, then faded to come in eighth.

Before the race, Questions mounted regarding Favorite trick, who was 8-for-8. The main question being whether or not the "sprinter" could handle the Derby's mile and 1/4 distance. There was even a question as to whether he could even make the May 2nd race.

Trainer Bill Mott felt that the 2-year old got a late start and was on a tight schedule which might prevent his making it to the Derby. Having taken a 2 month hiatus from a grueling schedule, he only had two prep races before May 2. He'd only been jogging since the first of the year and had only recently started galloping a mile daily.

CHURCHILL DOWNS

As the home of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs' twins spires are known all over the world. Breeder's Cup, the richest day in thoroughbred horse racing, has also been held here. The track runs in both the fall and the spring seasons with about 80 racing days a year.

History




THIS SECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!






THE BACKSIDE: Churchill Downs/A Photo-Journal Essay


WINNERS AT THE 1998 KENTUCKY DERBY: HORSE AND JOCKY


Real Quiet held on to his lead as he neared the finish line. He had gained the lead before reaching the quarter pole at the top of the stretch.


Kent Desormeaux after riding Real Quiet to victory.