all in Legends

It is an iconic image that still resonates with fans and horse racing professionals 10 years later. Jockey Victor Espinoza (a 2017 Hall of Fame inductee) with his arm raised in triumph and the world’s biggest smile crossing the finish line on American Pharoah.

The Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve is not only the most anticipated, most watched Thoroughbred race in the world but an essential part of American sports culture.

Memories are made with each run for the roses that over the passage of time become legend, not only to day-to-day followers of horse racing but to the general public.

His best horse may have been gray, but for the most part there was no gray area when it came to people’s feelings about trainer Grover Greer “Bud” Delp.

The Maryland native was outspoken, irreverent, and controversial. He had a personality that divided people into two separate camps: those who loved him and those who had no use for him.

The common ground, though, was respect for his ability as a trainer.

The Kentucky Oaks began as a companion to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve, much as the English Oaks at Epsom serves as the female version of the prestigious Derby.

The journey from the first Kentucky Derby to the 150th edition in 2024 included its share of influential names, men and women who have left their mark on the country’s most famous race.

newsletter sign-up

Stay up-to-date with the best from America's Best Racing!

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube