Kentucky Derby Live Stream: Complete Coverage Information

The Kentucky Derby is always a special event. Just like the Super Bowl, it attracts viewers from around the country that wouldn't otherwise watch the sport. It's just as much about the entire spectacle of Derby day as it is about the race itself.

For 2013, coverage begins at 11 a.m. Eastern time with the early portion of the race card on the NBC Sports Network. That's followed by coverage on NBC starting at 4 p.m., which includes the race at just before 6:30, before a wrap-up show starting at 7 p.m.

It makes for a complete day of racing action from the iconic Churchill Downs. While the main event is the "Fastest Two Minutes in Sports," which crowns the winner of the Triple Crown's first leg, everything that surrounds it makes for a terrific atmosphere.

Here's a look at all the vital information for the day ahead, followed by a complete coverage schedule and what to expect in the "Run for the Roses."

Where: Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

When: Saturday, May 4

Watch: NBC and NBC Sports Network

Live Stream: NBC Sports Live Extra

Complete Coverage Schedule

Show	Time (ET)	Channel
Derby Prep Show	11 a.m. - 4 p.m.	NBC Sports Network
139th Kentucky Derby	4 - 7 p.m.	NBC
Derby Post Show	7 - 7:30 p.m.	NBC Sports Network

Race Outlook

Perhaps the best moment of the entire race, at least aside from a potential photo finish, is the few seconds right after the gates fly open. It's almost like the 100-meter dash in the Olympics. The best athletes in their biggest event letting it all out.

After the first portion of the race, when all the jockeys feel comfortable slotting into a spot, the real race begins. If the opening segment is like an Olympic sprint, the middle segment is like a game of chess. Everybody waiting for somebody to make their move.

The top contenders to keep an eye on are Normandy Invasion, Verrazano and Orb. If the pace is lightning quick, they will want to be in the middle of the pack. If it's more reasonable, they will want a spot near the front since every horse will have enough energy for a late kick.

Last year, I'll Have Another became the first horse in Derby history to win from the No. 19 post. Part of the reason for his success was a quick pace that allowed him to get near the front without being forced to expel all of his energy playing catch-up.

You can figure jockeys on the outside will attempt to emulate that strategy, which should make for an even more competitive race from start to finish.

Then, as they make the turn for home, things will really start to get interesting. All that posturing from the previous mile comes to an end and the mad dash toward the finish line begins. Between that and an electric crowd, it's easy to see why the race has developed into such an enormous event.

Regardless of who earns the victory––unbeaten Verrazano will be tough to overcome––attention will immediately turn toward the Preakness as fans seek the first Triple Crown winner since 1978.