Racing's Thrilling Moments Compacted - The Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby: A Grand Tradition of Horses, Hats, and Bourbon
The Kentucky Derby, a spectacle of American sporting culture, traces its roots back to 1875 when Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame), had the vision to establish a racing event inspired by the Epsom Derby in England.
Clark, with a passion for horse racing, acquired lands for a track from his uncles, which is now known as the Churchill Downs Racetrack. In 1875, the first Kentucky Derby was held on the track, welcoming 15 horses to race 1.5 miles in front of a crowd of 10,000 spectators.
The race distance was shortened to 1.25 miles in 1896, and in 1894, a grandstand was built to accommodate additional spectators. The Kentucky Derby was internationally broadcasted in 1932, during the Great Depression, and was first heard on the radio in 1925.
In 1954, the purse for the race surpassed $100,000 for the first time, and today, the total purse stands at a staggering $2 million. The race has evolved significantly since its inception, becoming an iconic event in American history.
One week before the race in 1985, the Kentucky Derby Museum opened its doors, offering visitors a chance to delve into the rich history of the event.
Gentlemen at the Kentucky Derby typically don fedoras with bow ties and sip on bourbon, while ladies are expected to wear elaborate, beautiful hats. A well-known tradition at the event is the consumption of Mint Juleps, a refreshing cocktail made with bourbon, mint, sugar, and water.
In 1970, a female jockey participated in the race for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the event's history. The Kentucky Derby was aired on television for the first time by CBS in 1949, and today, it's broadcast on the NBC network.
The red rose was adopted as the official flower of the race in 1904, adding a touch of colour and elegance to the event. The Kentucky Derby, with its blend of tradition, excitement, and southern charm, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
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