The first Saturday of May is here.
And you know what that means: It’s the Kentucky Derby.
As always, Churchill Downs hosted the 147th Run for the Roses. It looked a little different than it has in the past, but it was still more traditional than the previous edition.
The biggest event in Louisville allowed fans this year but at a reduced capacity to allow for social distancing.
The race began at 6:57 p.m. ET, with 19 horses in the running. The 20th horse, King Fury, scratched Friday.
Check out the top moments from this rite of spring.
Spotted on the grounds!
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers took a break from feuding with the franchise to enjoy a Saturday afternoon with fiancée Shailene Woodley.
He didn’t want to talk shop.
Rodgers wasn’t the only NFL quarterback in attendance. Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Tom Brady was looking rather dapper.
Jockey’s eye view!
If you ever wanted to know what it looks like to ride a Derby contender …
History lesson
Here’s a brief ode to Secretariat, who still holds the track record.
Looking good, kid
A future jockey? He certainly looks the part.
An iconic tradition
It wouldn’t be the Derby without ladies donning their most fashionable headpieces.
Here are some more for your viewing pleasure.
The pick is in
This seems like a foolproof way to select a horse to wager on.
Sneak peek
What a beautiful trophy – almost as pretty as the roses.
All smiles
The squad was looking good.
Loading up
It was almost time.
Call to the post
Here we go …
What a race!
Medina Spirit went wire-to-wire to win the 2021 edition of the Derby.
Most didn’t recognize this horse’s talent, but he left no doubters Saturday.
With Medina Spirit’s win, Bob Baffert became the most successful trainer in Kentucky Derby history, with seven victories. This was his second consecutive Derby win.
It was also jockey John Velasquez’s fourth Derby title.
What a day!