Kentucky Derby Odds: Best Name-Based Bets to Win Run for the Roses

Picking even a handful of horses to win the 2012 Kentucky Derby has evolved into something closely resembling a crapshoot. You could make a strong case for 10 of the 20 colts in the field coming out on top in Saturday's Run for the Roses.

So, rather than spend anymore time dissecting how different horses looked in practice runs, how they've performed in actual races or the value of their respective pedigrees, let's make some picks just like any Joe Schmo walking up to the window at Churchill Downs would.

By looking at the names.

Bodemeister

Hmmm....4/1 odds on Bodemeister, eh? I like the "meister" part. That's German for "master," so he's probably strong, smart, competitive and complete with European sensibilities.

As for "Bode"? Not my favorite name, but it's worked out pretty well for Bode Miller, the world-champion and gold-medal skier. A few shekels on this one can't hurt.

Optimizer

If the Autobots had one of their own in horse form, his name would probably be Optimizer.

Not to cut in on Optimus Prime's turf or anything, but there's something intriguingly mechanical about a colt whose name suggests that he's been fine-tuned for a rosy celebration.

What are his odds set at? 50/1? Sign me up!

Clearly, there's more to this entrant than meets the eye.

Daddy Long Legs

I know daddy long legs aren't technically spiders, but who knew they qualified as equine creatures?

Also, long legs equate to speed, don't they? If his legs are as long as his odds (30/1) then Daddy Long Legs should gallop into the lead with ease.

El Padrino

I'm gonna make you an offer you can't refuse—20/1 odds for El Padrino.

Think this horse knows a thing or two about gambling? He's named after the most famous fake mob boss in the history of literature and film!

You know he'll come out on top if the other four of the five families are involved.

Take Charge Indy

What's not to like about a horse whose name is exactly what it should do to win the race?

Indy also happens to be a good city for speed. You know, as in, the Indy 500, the most famous event in motor sports (at least outside of the Daytona 500)?

If Take Charge Indy can take charge in Indy, surely he can do the same next door in the Bluegrass State. His 15/1 odds make him a sleek pick, too.

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