2013 Kentucky Derby: Showcasing Importance of Annual Race at Churchill Downs
The 2013 Kentucky Derby is just days away, as odds-makers and racer-followers join together in hopes of properly predicting the first leg of the Triple Crown. While the specialists are keeping a close eye on the event, there is an undeniable portion of the sports world asking one question:
Why does it matter?
The Kentucky Derby is one of the most storied annual events in the world, dating back to it's inception in 1875. From the captivating beginnings to a Triple Crown hunt to the undeniably invigorating thrill of an underdog achieving victory, there have been no shortage of memorable moments.
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
So when will it transpire and why should you be watching?
Date: Saturday, May 4, 2013
Time: 4 p.m. ET
TV: NBC Sports Network
2013 Kentucky Derby Odds (via BOVADA):
| Horse Name | Odds |
| Verrazano | 7/2 |
| Orb | 5/1 |
| Goldencents | 7/1 |
| Revolutionary | 7/1 |
| Normandy Invasion | 8/1 |
| Itsmyluckyday | 12/1 |
| Vyjack | 15/1 |
| Governor Charlies | 18/1 |
| Will Take Charge | 20/1 |
| Lines of Battle | 20/1 |
Oxbow | 20/1 |
| Java's War | 30/1 |
| Palace Malice | 33/1 |
| Frac Daddy | 33/1 |
| Mylute | 33/1 |
| Black Onyx | 33/1 |
| Overanalyze | 40/1 |
| Falling Sky | 50/1 |
| Charming Kitten | 66/1 |
| Titletown Five | N/A |
Tradition
The Kentucky Derby is an event that dates back to 1875, when Aristides won the inaugural race. Since then, owners have been seeking out the best jockeys and trainers in the world to lead their horses to a major victory.
Need we say more than that this is the 139th annual event?
Since 2001, only one jockey has managed to win more than one Kentucky Derby event, which displays the competitive nature. Not only does it take an extraordinary deal of ability, but the Derby is the ultimate display of, "Every second counts."
In 2012, the world truly took notice, as a record 165,307 people were on hand for the event (via Yahoo! Sports).
By comparison, the 2013 BCS National Championship Game was held at Sun Life Stadium in Miami, Florida and seated 80,120 fans (via BCS Football). This not only proves how large the racing grounds have become, but how popular the event is.
The Kentucky Derby makes legends—so who will that be in 2013?
Triple Crown Mystique
There are few achievements more prolific than that of winning horse racing's Triple Crown. Eleven horses have achieved the magnificent feat, entering their names into the ranks of history.
With that being said, no horse has won the Triple Crown since Affirmed in 1978.
The horses that have won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes have not only become legends in the industry, but across the world. From media outlets praising them as legends to movies being made in their honor, we've seen it all.
Secretariat, the Triple Crown winner in 1973, is a prime example.
Secretariat was made into a movie in 2010, starring Oscar nominees Diane Lane and John Malkovich, as well as Primetime Emmy award winner Margo Martindale. The film was nominated at the 2011 ESPY's and 2010 Satellite Awards.
The Triple Crown mystique is powerful, and it all begins at the Kentucky Derby.
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
