The Kentucky Derby

At 6:24 PM Eastern Time this Saturday, May 3, twenty contenders will compete in “the greatest two minutes in sports” during the 140^th Kentucky Derby.

Held at the historic Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby has been run every consecutive year since 1875. This 1 ¼ mile race, run exclusively by three-year old thoroughbred horses, is steeped in tradition, including Millionaires Row, the Infield, the playing of "My Old Kentucky Home" and of course, mint juleps.  

In addition to the purse, the winner of the derby is also presented with a handcrafted gold trophy and a blanket of 564 red roses, giving the derby its nickname, the "Run for the Roses," as well as the chance to make history as a Triple Crown winner if they can win the Preakness Stakes and then the Belmont Stakes, a feat that has only been accomplished 11 times. 

You can also get an insider's view of the Kentucky Derby at the 2014 AAMSE Annual Conference, where John Asher, Vice President of Racing Communications at Churchill Downs will present the opening general session. You can read a preview of his exciting session below.

Kentucky Derby: Hitting Its Stride After 140 Years

General Opening Session: Thursday, July 31, 2014 8:15-9:15 AM

John Asher, VP Racing Communications, Churchill Downs

The Kentucky Derby has been a part of the American sports and entertainment landscape since 1875, but more people are experiencing the world famous event either at the track or via online and television coverage than at any time in the Derby’s rich history. John Asher, Churchill Downs’ Vice President of Communications who this year participated in his 32^nd consecutive Kentucky Derby, offers a look at the history of the home of the great race and the growth of its signature event, and how the track is using innovation, new media and marketing to reach out to new and longtime patrons in a shifting competitive landscape, earn their loyalty and trust, and continue to grow an event that dates to our nation’s horse and buggy days.

To hear this great speaker and take advantage of the full program of educational sessions, register for the 2014 AAMSE Annual Conference, in Louisville, Kentucky (early registration rates apply until May 26)!

Click here to register.

Read more about this year’s contenders, including California Chrome - this year's favorite going into the race and the 2014 Kentucky Derby here: http://www.kentuckyderby.com/horses

You can also learn more about Kentucky Derby history and traditions here: http://www.kentuckyderby.com/party/derby-info  

 Photos courtesy of Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau, photographers Dan Dry; Reed Palmer