First Saturday in September

I know, it sounds crazy. But, in the times of Corona-19, it may be the new norm for a while. – This Saturday would have been Kentucky Derby 146. – We just need to sit back, chill out, and wait for the ponies. They’ll be heading to post in about four months.

Churchill Downs has been conducting the race since 1875, and they went to post during The Great Depression and two World Wars. “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” is the longest continuously held sporting event in America. The first Saturday in May is a special time for horseplayers. This rite of spring is special in many ways. “My Old Kentucky Home,” Mint Juleps, the beautiful roses. – There are not many places more beautiful than Churchill Downs on this day.

Has it ever been postponed?

Every year, thousands of people block off the first weekend in May on their calendars to ensure they can make it to Churchill Downs to partake in all the exciting Kentucky Derby festivities. However, in January 1945, the government issued a total ban on horse racing because of World War II. All the workers, supplies, and funds put towards executing a major horse race were redirected to help fight the war. Many believed the race wouldn’t be run at all. Luckily, the horse racing ban was lifted in May of the same year.

Kentucky Derby organizers scrambled to find a way to recommence the event. Ultimately, the 71st running of the Kentucky Derby was held just two months after its original date, on June 9, 1945. Prior to the postponement of the 2020 race, this is the only other time in history that “The Run for the Roses” has been postponed.

Has Mother Nature ever played a part in postponing the race?

The Kentucky Derby has never been postponed or canceled due to bad weather. Churchill Downs consistently reiterates that the event is held rain or shine. In 2018, rain poured all day long and the 144th Kentucky Derby race still went off without a beat. All 157,000 spectators continued to cheer and enjoy their Derby Day – just wearing ponchos and rain boots!

Delayed races, however, are a possibility if the track is extremely flooded or lightning is occurring at the same time the race is supposed to go off. – I remember standing in the soaking rain waiting for Smarty Jones to etch his name in the history books.

Whatcha’ gonna’ do this Saturday?

How about a small party in honor of the big race? – Maybe a grill out, and make some adult beverages ( Mint Juleps). – There will be a “Fantasy Derby.” – Check out (HRRN) Horse Racing Radio Network @ horseracingradio.net – There will be a full-field of 20 and it will be on Sirius Radio 219, XM 201, and streamed live on site. – Go ahead and check it out now! – You can do family “pool bets” by picking a name out of the hat and enjoy the race. Guaranteed to get your inner-horseplayer ready for post time! – Live racing at Oaklawn Park offers up two Arkansas Derby races! – Live racing is the only wagering sport to taking place and it’s been shown on TVG, FS1, and NBCSN. Check your local listings for the entire race card. – It may not be the traditional Derby, but it will do until the first Saturday in September arrives. – My guess would be the largest Derby handle in history. Colonel Matt Winn would be happy watching from the heavens over the Twin Spires that day!

Have a libation, and sit back and enjoy yourself at home. – We’re all in this together and why not enjoy the racing on tap? – Oaklawn Park will have an incredible card and Winning Ponies will be ready and waiting with the one-of-a-kind E-Z Win Forms to make your day a winner. With over $2,065,249 in exotic winners to date, there is no better time to watch and wager from home with the best handicapping data for the sport. 

Check-in Thursday @ 8pm EDT for the Winning Ponies Internet Show with John Engelhardt. He’ll be breaking down the weekend races and talking Derby with you! – If you miss the live broadcast, it can be found on the Winning Ponies tab to catch the podcast.

Be sure to check in Friday for some free selections to whet your appetite for the big Saturday race card!

The Derby is just a few months away, and in the meantime, there has never been a better time to build your bankroll. – Be safe, and best of luck from your friends at Winning Ponies!