The 2024 Kentucky Derby

We are not far away from the big race and as the Kentucky Derby is the most bet on horse race in the US, it does warrant a few words. It's the headline act at the Kentucky Derby Festival and billed as the most exciting 2 minutes in sport. The crowds flock to Churchill Downs and this historic race rarely fails to get them going with an outstanding amount of cash wagered on it. Last year's winner was I'll Have Another running home in good time and this year, the 139th running of the race there'll be more than a few contenders hoping to beat that, however it will take some serious ride to come close to the record held by Secretariat at 1:59.40 which was set in 1973. It's a thoroughbred race at 10 furlongs on a dirt track with a $2 million purse.

Kentucky Derby Bet Types

It may be all about the winner for the horse, the jockey, trainer and stable, but for the horse punter there's more to it than that. All bet types are available at the Derby and you may want to look at a few more than just a straight win. Maybe you like a long shot for a place, don't be afraid of the slightly less attractive odds on your pick simply getting in the frame...a win is a win. There's talk of this year's race being slightly slower than usual but that may not be the case with some fine horses involved. Some of the contenders are Verrazano, going in undefeated in 4 starts and will start the race as one of the favorites, Orb is another great runner and although it too a while for this horse to get going, he is now going in some style and you may get a decent early price on this one. Third up is Revolutionary, that completes what many see as the 1,2,3 for the race. He lost to Orb a while back but has improved since and there's hope of big things from this talented horse. Let's not also forget the great Goldencents who has seen odds slashed and may even be favorite come race day. Fancy slightly larger odds? Wait until race day, odds will change massively as the runners get closer to the off. BetOwi has all betting types available for the race and is a superb online horse betting site. You'll get track prices and a good rebate along with some decent deposit bonuses too.