Kentucky Derby 2025: 11 CRAZY things to know about the 'most exciting two minutes in sports'

As the 151st Kentucky Derby gallops into Churchill Downs today, 3 May 2025, the world turns its gaze to Louisville, Kentucky, for the "most exciting two minutes in sports." 

This storied event, rich in tradition and spectacle, continues to captivate audiences globally.

From the thundering hooves on the dirt track to the vibrant fashion statements in the stands, the Derby is more than a race—it's a cultural phenomenon. 

In this article, Pulse Sports details everything you need to know about this year's grand event.

The Kentucky Derby is the longest continuously run sporting event in the United States. 

First held in 1875, it was inspired by England’s Epsom Derby and brought to life by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of the famed William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. 

Known as “The Run for the Roses” because of the blanket of red roses draped over the winner, the Kentucky Derby has since evolved into the most prestigious race for three-year-old Thoroughbreds in America, and the first leg of the fabled Triple Crown.

The Kentucky Derby pits 20 of the best 3-year-old thoroughbreds against each other on a 10-furlong track (1.25 miles), as per WLKY.

The race lasts around two minutes, which is why it is classically known as "the most exciting two minutes in sports."

Every year, the Kentucky Derby is famously scheduled for the first Saturday in May.

This year marks the 151st running of the prestigious race, and it takes place today, May 3, 2025. 

That consistency makes it a springtime staple for sports fans and fashionistas alike.

The venue for the Kentucky Derby is located in Louisville, Kentucky, Churchill Downs is a racing cathedral. 

Built in 1875, it’s known for its iconic twin spires and can host over 150,000 spectators on Derby Day. 

It’s not just a racetrack, it’s a hallowed ground in the world of horse racing.

The main race, which is the Kentucky Derby itself — is set to begin at 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).

Coverage begins early in the afternoon, but international viewers should adjust accordingly.

 For instance, viewers in the UK can tune in just before midnight. 

It may be late, but the Kentucky Derby is worth staying up for.

In the United States, NBC and Peacock will carry the live broadcast starting at 2:30 p.m. ET as per CBS Sports, with early coverage on USA Network from noon. 

Internationally, Peacock’s digital platform makes it easy to stream across time zones, with select local stations in the UK, Australia, and beyond offering live coverage.

According to The US Sun, this year’s Kentucky Deby’s total purse stands at a record $5 million — a dramatic increase from years past. 

The winning horse takes home $3.1 million, with the rest split among the runners-up.

Here is a full breakdown of the purse:

1st - $3.1million

2nd - $1million

3rd - $500,000

4th - $250,000

5th - $150,000

But beyond the money, it’s the prestige that matters because if you win here, and you’re more or less immortalised.

The Kentucky Derby Trophy, introduced in 1924 following a design contest, is a 14-karat gold cup topped with an 18-karat gold horse and jockey.

Crafted by Lemon & Son using the original dies and methods, it stands 17 inches tall (excluding its jade base) and weighs about 3.5 pounds.

Over 1,000 man hours go into its creation, with 40% of the gold lost during the intricate crafting process.

Valued at approximately $70,000, the Kentucky Derby trophy is awarded to the owner of the winning Thoroughbred.

The jockey and trainer receive smaller sterling silver replicas worth around $5,000 each.

The field features 20 top-tier Thoroughbreds, each vying for history at the Kentucky Derby.

Current favourite Journalism sits at 3-1 odds, with Sovereignty (5-1) and Sandman (6-1) close behind. 

However, it always pays to watch out for dark horses as there are always surprises on Derby Day.

According to reports, two originally scheduled horses: Rodriguez and Grande — were scratched earlier this week due to health concerns. 

In their place, Baeza enters as an also-eligible contender, keeping the competition fierce and unpredictable.

The Kentucky Derby is as much a fashion parade as a horse race. 

Women don extravagant hats and pastel dresses; while men don tailored suits, bow ties, and straw fedoras.

 It’s not just stylish — it’s tradition.

 With forecasts hinting at showers in Louisville, conditions could become muddy. 

That changes everything — muddy tracks test a horse’s endurance and a jockey’s strategy.

 Those betting may want to consider horses with a strong “off-track” record.

The Kentucky Derby brings more than fanfare — it brings serious economic muscle. 

Louisville expects over $104 million in revenue from tourism, hospitality, and wagering, as per Demand Intelligence Platform.

Globally, millions tune in, making it not just an American spectacle but a worldwide celebration.