Originally Posted on Foxsports.com on May 4, 2006.
Ladies across the nation are dusting off their best spring hat and perfecting their mint julip recipe. Meanwhile, gamblers are checking the odds on the favorite (Brother Derek) who will start in the 18th position (not so good for those of you who don't know). The Kentucky Derby is this weekend.
When I was growing up, I loved watching the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes a/k/a the Triple Crown of horse racing. I remember years when a horse would win two of the three. Regardless of whether the triple was accomplished, it truly was the most exciting 2 minutes in sports.
One thing I learned when watching was to not pick the favorite. For some reason, being picked the favorite was the kiss of death - at least in the Derby. I'm sure the crowd got it right sometimes, but usually the horse finished outside the money. Apparently in horse racing, it doesn't pay to follow the crowd. Instead, I'd pick a horse I liked the looks of - sometimes I did well (Swale), but most of the time, I didn't.
I visited Churchhill Downs one year. It was a fascinating place. I haven't managed to get a ticket to the race, but someday I hope to. I can't imagine what 15 or so horses charging down the stretch sounds like in person. And, I can't wait to buy one of those hats!
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