You might have asked yourself at some point, “What is the history of the Kentucky Derby?”

This annual horse racing event is both a sports match and a tradition steeped in ritual. It’s also well documented by its many fans and eager followers from all over the world.

Those who have attended the Kentucky Derby will say there’s nothing else like it. Yes, waiting to see the horses cross the finish line is always exciting. But there are also the mint juleps and singing “My Old Kentucky Home.”

Let’s find out how the remarkable Kentucky Derby got its start and what’s kept it so popular and so much a part of the public imagination.

The History of the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is the longest continually-running sporting event in the U.S. But just how long is “the longest”? Since the first Kentucky Derby in 1875, it was 145 years as of 2020:

Origins

The race was the brainchild of Colonel Merriweather Lewis Clark, grandson of explorer William Clark. The younger Clark attended England’s Epsom Derby in 1872 and decided to initiate a similar event in his home country and city.

His uncles, John and Henry Churchill, gave him the land to develop a racetrack—eventually to be named in their honor. On May 17, 1875, the track opened, thanks to sponsorship from the Louisville Jockey Club.

The 1900s

In 1904, the red rose was designated the official flower of the Kentucky Derby. The iconic mint julep, a Kentucky tradition, became the standard drink of the Derby in 1938. And as for the hats, they continue a tradition that started at the first event in 1875.

Meanwhile, this pivotal century saw the Kentucky Derby come into its own. Of course, the Derby would be nothing without its horses and their jockeys, many of whose names are recognized all over the world.

With the arrival of television in the 1950s, the Kentucky Derby only achieved more renown, as people in the U.S., and later around the world, tuned in to see if their “picks” would win. And to share mint juleps with family and friends.

The 2000s

The annual celebration of horses and sportsmanship has continued into the 21st Century. And as of January 2021, the Kentucky Derby will run, live in Louisville, from April 30-May 1, at least to the lucky few who can socially distance in box seating.

The organization has not yet determined whether they will be allowed to sell general admission tickets to the event. So if you want to attend in person, watch the website for bulletins.

Other Interesting Kentucky Derby Facts

1. In 1889, bookmakers demanded that Churchill Downs remove all pari-mutuel betting machines, claiming they cut into their profits. They were restored 19 years later. At that time, the bookmakers were ousted.

2. The Twin Spires crowning Churchill Downs’ grandstand was built in 1895 by aspiring architect Joseph Baldez. The 24-year-old felt the structure needed something to give the grandstand a memorable appearance.

3. In 2020, a horse named Authentic and jockey John Velazquez won, beating the favorite, Tis.

And the Winner Is

Throughout Kentucky Derby history, spectators have waited for this announcement with great anticipation, whether at home or in the stands. Champions and their jockeys change from year to year, but the race will always run.

We may not know yet if we’ll be able to watch the 2021 race live at Churchill Downs. But it will take place, just as it did in 2020. So keep your TVs on, no matter what, and watch Kentucky Derby 2021 from April 30-May 1.

Have you enjoyed learning about the history of the Kentucky Derby? If so, stay tuned for more news and information about a variety of topics on our website.