Cherie DeVaux and Mike Smith chase historic milestones at 152nd Kentucky Derby
The 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby presents a multitude of historic storylines, with Cherie DeVaux bidding to become the first female trainer to win the prestigious race.
DeVaux will saddle Golden Tempo when the iconic event gets underway on Saturday evening.
Fans seeking a feel-good narrative have several compelling options to follow at the famous dirt track.
Veterans and trailblazers chase glory
Veteran jockey Mike Smith is attempting to become the oldest rider to win the Run for the Roses at 59 years of age.
The experienced rider will partner So Happy, having previously tasted success with Giacomo in 2005 and Triple Crown champion Justify in 2018.
A fascinating family rivalry also unfolds in the paddock as 33-year-old Riley Mott attempts to outsmart his father.
Bill Mott secured Derby glory last year with Sovereignty and returns seeking back-to-back victories with Chief Wallabee.
His son counters with two strong entries, fielding both Albus and Incredibolt in the wide-open contest.
Curse of the inside post and overseas raiders
Traditional betting angles present a challenging puzzle for punters analyzing the form guide.
Race favorite Renegade must overcome the dreaded number one post position to secure victory.
No horse has won from the inside rail since Ferdinand achieved the feat in 1986.
Meanwhile, an international contingent featuring Danon Bourbon, Wonder Dean, and Six Speed hopes to break a daunting historic trend.
Only one of the 18 horses to race exclusively outside the United States prior to the Derby has ever managed to finish in the top three.
Triple Crown landscape shifts
The broader American racing landscape continues to evolve in the wake of last year’s dramatic Triple Crown series.
Defending champion Sovereignty recently made his seasonal debut alongside fierce rival Journalism at Oaklawn Park.
Significant venue changes are also shaping the future of the sport’s most famous races.
This year’s Preakness Stakes will take place at Laurel Park while historic Pimlico undergoes extensive renovations.
Churchill Downs Incorporated has also acquired the rights to the Preakness brand following the 2026 event, prompting discussions about extending the traditional two-week gap between the first two legs of the Triple Crown.