Today is the 134 running of the Kentucky Derby: The Run for the Roses.
Photo by: Matthew Stockman
While I am not as an avid a horse racing fan as some of my friends, I always follow with great interest, the three most exciting and challenging races of the year, the Triple Crown.
Starting with the Kentucky Derby, held on the first Saturday in May, continuing with the Preakness, and ending with the Belmont Stakes, this series of races requires the best of the best to expend a huge amount of energy and demonstrate an excellent athletic prowess.
Not since 1978, when Affirmed captured that prestigious title, have we had a Triple Crown winner. Each year as I eagerly watch these races, I find myself longing for the long drought to be lifted so that another incredibly talented Thoroughbred will follow in his "hoof" steps.
And each year, I find myself falling in love with my favorite prospect and I inevitably become glued to my TV, crossing my fingers, cheering the contender noisily from the privacy of my living room. I must add that my kitties suspect that I may have lost my sanity for a few minutes when they witness my rowdy behavior.
This year I have totally been mesmerized by Big Brown. Bred by Monticule, owned by IEAH Stable and Paul Pompa, trained by Rick Dutrow, he will be riden by Kent Desormeaux .
Since Big Brown has only won three career starts, the odds may not be in his favor for capturing the roses this afternoon. But that does not deter me from being a huge fan of this beautiful and talented horse. Although I am not a gambler, I place my money on him as I have a feeling that this big hearted boy will be wearing the spectacular blanket of roses around his neck later this afternoon!
Read the history of the Triple Crown.
Enjoy this video of Big Brown's 5/2 workout:
Do you have a special favorite in today's race? Leave a comment and tell us about it.
