When is the 2024 Kentucky Derby Draw? Why it's important
When it comes to the Kentucky Derby, it starts with the luck of the draw. In horse racing, one’s position out of the gate and around the first turn could make or break their chance to win.
Often referred to as the “most exciting two minutes of sports,” the first five to ten seconds of the race matters, as well as one’s position at the start, and could significantly influence how a horse runs, and where they place when they cross the finish line.
In the past, trainers haven’t wanted their horses to be stuck too far on the outside, likely having to go wide on the first turn. Yet, drawing too far on the inside has also proven problematic, causing traffic jams and contact among the horses as the riders try to move closer to the rail.
More: Bob Baffert horses won't be moved to other trainers in attempt to make 2024 Kentucky Derby
With a lot riding on the first 200 yards of the race, how do these post positions get assigned? Here’s what we know about the Kentucky Derby draw:
When is the 150th Kentucky Derby Draw?
The draw for the Kentucky Derby 150 is scheduled for Saturday, April 27. In previous years, the draw was held the Monday before the race, rather than a full week ahead of time, which is new this year.
What is the Kentucky Derby Draw?
The Kentucky Derby post position draw determines the starting spots for the horses. Churchill Downs uses a traditional draw method where one racing official pulls a piece of paper with a horse’s name on it from a pile while another official simultaneously pulls a gate number from a separate pile to complete the match. The draws take place publicly to ensure fairness and prevent conspiracies.
When is the 2024 Kentucky Oaks Draw?
The Kentucky Oaks, the race involving only 3-year-old fillies, will occur Friday, May 3. The post-position draw for the Oaks will take place before the Kentucky Derby draw April 27.
Can you stream the Kentucky Derby Draw?
The draw will be livestreamed on Courier-Journal.com.
More: When is the Kentucky Derby? Everything to know ahead of the Run for the Roses in 2024
When and where is the 150th Kentucky Derby?
The 150th Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, at Churchill Downs, located at 700 Central Ave. in Louisville, Kentucky.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Derby Draw moved to previous Saturday for 2024 race
