Kentucky Derby 2012: Predicting Trifecta for Biggest Race of the Year

On May 5, for at least a couple of minutes, we will forget about the NFL draft, the NBA playoffs, and the NHL playoffs, as horse racing's Super Bowl—the Kentucky Derby—takes place.

Even if you're not a fan of horses racing around a track, it's hard not to get caught up in the history and pageantry of the Kentucky Derby. 

Here's a look at which of the 21 horses to expect to finish in the Top Three. 

Win: Dullahan

Dullahan has a lot going for himself.

First, he is coming off a huge win—the Blue Grass Stakes against Hansen, who is an impressive horse in his own right. In that race, he started off fairly slow, but closed on Hansen in the stretch. It was a magnificent victory.

Second, Dullahan is good on dirt. In his last dirt start, at the Breeders' Cup Juvenile, he had a terrible start but still managed to finish fourth.

Last, his half-brother is Mine That Bird, who won the Derby in 2009. Doesn't get much better than that.

As long as Dullahan manages to get off to a decent start—a big if, considering his last few races—he'll be fine in this one. He is arguably the best finisher in the field.

Place: Union Rags

One of the biggest favorites for this race is coming off a very disappointing race at the Florida Derby.

After starting off 2012 with a huge win in the Grade 2 Fountain of Youth Stakes, Union Rags finished a disappointing third in Florida.

Nonetheless, don't overlook this two-year-old as a solid bounce-back candidate. 

Much like Dullahan, Union Rags is a good finisher. Don't forget about this popular horse just because of his recent struggles.

Show: Gemologist

Gemologist, a young colt, is unbeaten in his career, and that includes being two-for-two at Churchill Downs.

The speedy colt won't extend his winning streak in this big race, but he will manage to stay with the final pack in the final straightaway. 

Gemologist is about as safe of a bet as you'll find, as he is a fantastic starter and has the stamina necessary for the 1 1/4-mile race.  I just don't think he has the finishing speed to take the win.

He'll settle for third. 

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