Given the popularity of the Kentucky Derby, it may surprise you to know that the event was inspired by the famous Epsom Derby in England. It may also interest you to know that the reason it is what is today is because of Meriweather Lewis Clark, Jr., the grandson of William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame)!
It seems Meriweather was a bit of an explorer, like his grandfather, because he spent some time abroad inspired by the English culture of horse racing. Upon his return to the United States, he was determined to create a spectacular horse event like none other in America.
Meriweather overcame many odds to turn his dream into a reality. To establish a racing culture, he formed the Louisville Jockey Club. He then took on the task of acquiring lands and raising funds to build a track. The property was acquired from his uncles and are known as the Churchill Downs Racetrack. The first Kentucky Derby was held on May 17th, 1885, 15 horses raced 1.5 miles in front of a crowd of 10,000 spectators!
Since then, the Kentucky Derby has evolved into an iconic American sporting event of the south complete with its own well-known traditions.
Held the first Saturday in May, ladies are expected to wear elaborate, beautiful hats and sip mint juleps. Meanwhile, gentlemen typically wear fedoras with bow ties while sipping on bourbon.
While the attire may still be traditional, there have been changes to the race itself and the track.
Here are some of the most exciting changes:
- In 1894, the grandstand was built to accommodate additional spectators.
- In 1896, The race distance was shortened from 1.5 miles to 1.25 miles.
- In 1904, the red rose was adopted as the official flower of the race.
- In 1925, the Derby was broadcasted on the radio for the first time.
- In 1932, the race was internationally broadcasted despite the great depression.
- In 1949, CBS aired the on television for the first time. Currently it’s broadcast on the NBC network.
- In 1954, the purse was more than $100,000 for the first time. Today, the total purse is $2 million.
- In 1970, the first female jockey participated in the race.
- In 1985, the Kentucky Derby Museum opened one week before the race.