The 147th Kentucky Derby is galloping forward as the country appears to be on its way to a post pandemic normal. The famous event, held in Louisville, Kentucky, was expected to bring in crowds of visitors to the state, but also to be a favorite to watch on TV Saturday.
Spectators weren’t allowed at Churchill Downs during last fall’s delayed race because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Unbeaten Essential Quality is the 2-1 morning line favorite for Saturday’s 147th Run for the Roses featuring 19 horses.
Last year’s Derby was run on Labor Day weekend in virtual silence and out of sequence as the Triple Crown’s second jewel instead of its first. It was moved from the first Saturday in May for the first time in 75 years.
Essential Quality is last year’s 2-year-old champion trained by Louisville-born Brad Cox, who would make Derby history as the first native son to win. The other top contenders are Rock Your World (5-1), Known Agenda (6-1) and Hot Rod Charlie (8-1).
When will the 2021 Kentucky Derby take place?
The Kentucky Derby is held on the first Saturday in May. This year that falls on May 1. Races will be held all day, with the Run for the Roses set to take place at 6:57 p.m. Eastern/ 3:57 p.m. Pacific.
Where will the race take place?
The Kentucky Derby’s venue is at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
How can I watch the Kentucky Derby on TV?
If you don’t plan on watching the Kentucky Derby in person, your local NBC station will be airing the races on May 1st.
According to NBC Sports, 2021 Kentucky Derby coverage will air on May 1 starting at 12 p.m. Eastern/ 9 a.m. Pacific on NBCSN and then from 2:30 p.m. Eastern/ 11:30 a.m. Pacific on NBC.
You will also be able to stream the even live on NBCSports.com, as well as on the NBC Sports app.
How can I place bets for the Kentucky Derby?
You can place bets via TwinSpires.com, according to the Derby’s website. It is recommended that you sign up as soon as possible to fund your account. Go to the deposit page on the website to add funds.
What are the post positions for the 2021 Kentucky Derby?
Post positions were announced on April 27. The favorite, Essential Quality, was trained by Brad Cox, who is a Louisville, Kentucky native. Essential Quality currently draws the No. 14 position.
See more on Essential Quality and other positions on NBC Sports.
What will the winner of the Kentucky Derby receive?
In addition to a blanket of hundreds of red roses, the winner for the day will receive the Kentucky Derby Trophy and will be given an honors spot in the Winner’s Circle. This year, the Derby purse has reached $3 million. That means the winner will take home over 60% of that amount, which is about $1.86 million, according to CNBC.
How many races are there on Derby day?
There will be 14 races at Churchill Downs on May 1. The Kentucky Derby will take place at 6:57 p.m. Eastern/ 3:57 p.m. Pacific.
Here is the full race schedule.
What is the weather at Churchill Downs expected to be like for the Kentucky Derby?
According to local forecasts, skies are expected to be pretty clear with highs in the low to mid 70s in the afternoon.