The Kentucky Derby is the longest continually held sporting event in the United States and one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. Twenty horses compete in the Kentucky Derby, on a one and one-quarter mile long dirt racetrack. The winner of this race takes home a prize of $2 million.
Over the years the race has become known for fancy hats, mint julips and parties, but in the world of horse racing it is the first step in the road to the Triple Crown. The Triple Crown consists of three races within six weeks; Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. In all the history of the Triple Crown only 12 horses have ever won this prestigious title.
So grab a Mint Julep (Sugar, Water, Mint, Ice and Bourbon Whisky), a fancy hat if so inclined and a book from Tacoma Public Library to get ready for Saturday, May 6th – called “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”
