Get ready for the excitement because the 2024 Kentucky Derby is almost here! This year marks the 150th edition of the famous horse race, kicking off the Triple Crown season with the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes following close behind.
It’s the most significant and most-watched horse race in the US, drawing crowds to Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, every year. Set to take place on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the iconic Churchill Downs, this year’s Derby promises nothing short of spectacular.
Here’s the lowdown on this year’s Kentucky Derby—everything you need to know to get in on the action!
This year, the Derby is set to make history with an unprecedented $5 million purse, the biggest purse ever offered in the event’s history. Here’s the breakdown of the payouts for this prestigious race:
$3.1 million goes to the winner, making it one of the most lucrative prizes in horse racing. The runner-up will take home a cool $1 million, a significant reward for their efforts on the track. Third place isn’t left empty-handed either, with a payout of $500,000 awaiting the deserving contender. Fourth place earns a respectable $250,000, while fifth place still walks away with a noteworthy $150,000.
With such substantial rewards, the competition is expected to be intense. Jockeys and trainers will give their all to claim their share of the prize money, setting the stage for an electrifying and unforgettable race day.
How to Watch the 2024 Kentucky Derby
Whether you’re planning to witness the 2024 Kentucky Derby firsthand or prefer to enjoy it from the comfort of your home, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the excitement of the event.
For those eager to experience the electrifying atmosphere of the Kentucky Derby live, tickets are available for purchase online through Ticketmaster, Vividseats, Seat Geek, or directly from Churchill Downs. But attending the Derby is more than just a spectator sport—it’s an opportunity to partake in a longstanding tradition of fashion. Attendees often dress to impress, donning their most elegant dresses, sharp suits, and, of course, the iconic Derby hats adorned with ribbons, flowers, and feathers. With the event taking place in spring, anticipate a vibrant display of pastel colors.
If attending in person isn’t part of your plans, you won’t have to miss out on the action. NBC will broadcast the 150th Kentucky Derby, with coverage kicking off at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on May 4, 2024. For those who prefer streaming, the event will also be available on Peacock. While TV coverage spans the entire afternoon, the main event—the race itself—is expected to start around 6:30 p.m.
Here are some of the top 2024 Kentucky Derby entries generating buzz and capturing the attention of racing enthusiasts:
With a record-breaking purse and a lineup of top contenders, it’s the perfect opportunity for Kentucky Derby 2024 betting enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness history and perhaps, place a winning bet on this historic race.
