It’s nearly time once again for 20 of horse racing’s top contenders to compete for the coveted rose garland. Come May 4th, all of the prep races will have been completed and competitors will descend on Churchill Downs to see which thoroughbred will be crowned champion. Last year, the now-retired Justify took the win – but who will come out on top in 2019? Let’s take a look at this year’s race and our horse picks.
Stories to Watch Leading Up to the Race
Last year’s Derby winner didn’t just take home the prize at Churchill Downs, Justify was also awarded the coveted Triple Crown, becoming the first to do so since American Pharoah in 2015. Here’s a look at the horses and jockeys to keep an eye on in the 2019 race:
- Roadster– Roadster took home the top prize in the recent Santa Anita race and looks to be an early favorite heading into the Derby. Jockey Mike Smith is a veteran, and trainer Bob Baffert already has two Triple Crowns to his name. Could Roadster become his third?
- Game Winner– This horse finished runner-up to Roadster at Santa Anita and appears poised to be a contender at the Derby.
- Maximum Security– Purchased on the cheap, Maximum Security is somewhat of a feel-good horse heading into the Derby. He’ll definitely be a fan favorite, but not just for his story – he’s an incredible racer too.
Our 2019 Kentucky Derby Picks
Despite lasting a mere two minutes, the Derby has a certain magic that makes it a must-watch event. This year looks like it will be no different.
So, what are our horse racing picks for the 2019 Derby? We’re putting our money on Roadster to take home the top prize at Churchill Downs, as things just seem to be lining up the right way for the Mike Smith-jockeyed horse. We’ll see if it comes true in early May.
Will you be betting on any horses in the 2019 Derby? For more sports picks and predictions, visit our website today!
Image Source: Courier-Journal