The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown of horse racing. It is historically run on the first Saturday in May. First run in 1875, this 1 1/4 mile—or 10 furlongs—race runs on the dirt track at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, where it has been held since its inaugural running in 1875.
Only 3-year-old Thoroughbreds can qualify for the Kentucky Derby. Eligible horses compete in the Race to the Kentucky Derby, a series of 35 races around the world. Horses win points for finishing in the top four spots, and the 20 horses with the most points at the end of the series gain entry into the Derby.
The Kentucky Derby is run at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
- Saturday, May 15: 146th Preakness Stakes
- Saturday, June 5: 153rd Belmont Stakes
Cheese grits, country ham sandwiches, beef tenderloin and corn pudding are Kentucky Derby Day staples that can be found in Stevens’ new cookbook.
10 – 12 ounces crushed ice
1 tsp granulated sugar
2 ounces Kentucky bourbon
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