Derby Facts

The Kentucky Derby is a stakes race for three-year-old thoroughbred horses, staged yearly in Louisville, Kentucky, capping the two-week-long Kentucky Derby Festival.

The date of the Derby is always the same: The First Saturday in May

The race currently covers one and one-quarter miles (2.012 km) at Churchill Downs.

Colts and geldings carry 126 lbs (57 kg) and fillies 121 lbs (55kg).

The race, known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports” for its approximate duration, is the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbread Racing in the United States.

The race draws typically 115,000 fans.

Official website:   www.KentuckyDerby.com