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Kentucky Derby 2012 Race Day Medication Ban, 7-7 Decision

Published On Apr 21, 2012

The controversial issue of medicating horses before a horse race – and in this case before the Kentucky Derby 2012 race – has always been up for debate. On Monday, April 17^th, there was a proposal to ban anti-bleeding drugs on race day. Kentucky, the Bluegrass state, has been divided as it tries to keep its reputation as the main thoroughbred racing track. It was at the Kentucky Racing Commission that the voting took place, however it did not turn out as expected. During the meeting, they set out to ban furosemide, the anti-bleeding drug, and the ban would take effect in as early as 2013, along with the 2 year old thoroughbreds. By 2014 it would be banned entirely at the 2012 Kentucky Derby, and by 2015 it was to be banned throughout the state.

The drug furosemide, also known as Salix or Lasix, is the only drug that is permitted on the day of the horse races, and only in the US. The reason other countries do not allow this drug to be used is because it enhances the horses’ performance, which does not allow for a proper horse race. Horses are given this drug, with the intention of treating haemorrhaging in the horses’ lungs. This can be caused by the extreme pressure and stamina that they must use during the races. As to follow suit with the other countries that ban this drug, Kentucky is the first state to step up and vote on this controversial issue. Even though the ban has many supporters, the vote failed on Monday with a 7-7 vote at the Racing Commission.

The History of Derby Style Horse Racing

Published On Apr 10, 2012

When you start to learn about the Kentucky Derby, it becomes obvious that this tradition is older than the first Derby started in 1875. In fact, this may be one of the premier sporting events in the horseracing world, but it draws much of its tradition from other festivities. Some of these horse festivals go back to early ancient cultures of the world. However, the origins of Thoroughbred racing are only about 200 years old.

Historic derbies of the past

The Kentucky Derby began in 1875 and was one of the first of its kind in the United States. Regardless, the style of derby that the Kentucky Derby is based on is similar to the kind found in England. The Historic styles of English derbies were first facilitated by the Jockey Club. There, the English “Classics” are the 2,000 Guineas, the Epsom Derby, and the Saint Leger Stakes.

The Daily Racing Form

Published On Apr 7, 2012

Every serious horse better is familiar with the Daily Racing Form, otherwise known as DRF. Founded in Chicago, Illinoise by Frank Brunell in 1984, the paper publishes performances of past horse races for kentucky derby bettors in the USA. This service provides beneficial statistics for betting on future races.

The Daily Racing Form cooperates with the National Thoroughbred Racing Association and the National Turf Writers Association to select the winners of the Eclipse Awards annually. The Eclipse Awards are viewed widely as a national standard for Thoroughbred Racing in the United States but isn’t official because the sport has no governing body.

Kentucky Derby Date for 2012 and Other VIP Facts

Published On Apr 1, 2012

The exact 2012 Kentucky Derby date is part of the grand process of being organized for this important time of year. In addition to marking the ‘X’ on the correct calendar entry, you will also need other time-related facts associated with this event. Important things to know about the 2012 Kentucky Derby date are; when it will be broadcast on television, where you can place a bet for the race, and other 2012 Kentucky Derby date-related areas you should be keeping your eye on.

Kentucky Derby Contenders Earnings Report

Published On Mar 28, 2012

The field of Kentucky Derby candidates continues to take shape, as previous race winners pile onto their seasonal winnings. Listed below are the horses leading in graded stakes earnings. As race day approaches, some of these earners will be included in the official Derby line-up. Keep an eye on these top performers, and be prepared to pick a winner. Your Kentucky Derby betting experience may involve choosing one of the bright stars from this list, for your own potential earnings.

Top 2011 Kentucky Derby Winners References

Published On Mar 27, 2012

Long after it ends, sports historians, trivia lovers, and fans anticipating the upcoming race will search online for 2011 Kentucky Derby winners information. While it may seem like a topic that is self-contained to a short period of time, the reality is that there are many references to this topic that might surprise you. For this reason, beginners and annual Derby-goers alike will love these references to Kentucky Derby winners and their online trends.

Understanding Kentucky Derby Favorites

Published On Mar 20, 2012

When you start hanging out with spectators that love horse racing, you start to hear a lot about how they won by betting on Kentucky Derby favorites. Also known as Kentucky Derby contenders, this sounds like a great tip for a beginner. This is especially true since favorites have a 30 percent chance of winning. However, you will soon learn that there is more to this list of favorites than is first expected.

To get started with using the favorites measurement tool to win your first Kentucky Derby, you will need to understand what to listen for, when to listen, where to look for released information, and who has the best advice for the derby and horse racing in general. Once you grasp the general ideas in this area of knowledge, you will improve your chances of picking the top horses dramatically.

Preparing for your Kentucky Derby Party

Published On Mar 19, 2012

The Kentucky Derby 2012 is not sold out quite yet but tickets cost a hefty sum. Enjoy the derby in the comfort of your home by re-creating some of the famous traditions, food and beverage of the Kentucky Derby.

First on the list of “must haves” for your Derby party is the Mint Julep. This sugary beverage has long been associated with Southern Cuisine but most especially with Kentucky and the Derby. The standard Mint Julep is bourbon, sugar, water and mint leaf over the rocks. Traditionally spearmint is the mint leaf of choice in the South and the Kentucky Derby. Best served in a pewter cup or glass to maintain the drink’s crisp and cool flavor. As the Mint Julep is described as a ritual rather than a formula so too is the traditional derby food a key part of the Kentucky Derby experience.

Buy 2012 Kentucky Derby Tickets

Published On Jan 1, 2012

Millionaires Row

Pricing starts at $5,000

Luxury is the tone of the premier seats found at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby and it is found brimming at Millionaires Row. Movie stars, queens, and corporate elites all gather in this box to view the winning moments of the race from the best viewpoint in the racetrack.

With these quarters comes other high-end expectations including service and gourmet food. Only the best wines and liquor will be served and you can be guaranteed a wide range of free amenities. Rub elbows with the rich and famous from the viewing perch and place your wagers from inside Millionaires Row. Due to the high quality shown during Derby Day, the only thing you and your guests will need to do is relax.

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Grandstand – Orange SOLD OUT

Pricing starts at $250

Grandstand Orange tickets are the perfect choice for viewing the race across from the 8th pole. You will be able to take photos of the final stretch and access the indoor venue spaces. Inside, you can watch the race via simulcast TV and see some of the world’s most famous socialites and celebrities. From these facilities, you can place wagers on the Kentucky Derby from self-service kiosks.

Of course, like other higher-priced tickets for the day include the finest food and wine for the premiere event of the year.

Grandstand – Red SOLD OUT

Pricing starts at $150

For great photos of the starting line and the final stretch without paying for a high priced ticket, the Grandstand Red is right for you. Many of the seats are under cover and all of the seating gains you access to the indoor venue. When the sun beats down on you, take a break in a temperature-controlled environment complete with your favorite drink.

You can place a wager at a kiosk and watch the coverage of the race on the air. As you sit and dine on gourmet options, you can expect entrances made by Churchill Downs VIPs visiting the Kentucky Derby.

Grandstand – Green SOLD OUT

Pricing starts at $130

Across from the 8th pole, you will have a boosted view of the final stretch and the starting line of the race. While these sections are not covered, your access to the main facility offers a wide selection of services. You will be able to place bets, watch news coverage of the Kentucky Derby, and see celebrities arriving at Churchill Downs. Most importantly, you will sip on the finest Mint Juleps and select from the most delectable menu items in Louisville.

Kentucky Oaks ONLY Packages

Pricing starts at $130

Each Kentucky Derby contains an important component the day before called the Oaks Day race. While the fillies run for the lilies, you will be able to watch from a variety of seating locations for a reduced price. The tickets may have a lower cost, but the amenities are the signature luxury that you can expect from Churchill Downs.

Kentucky Oaks Race Day Only Packages

Trophy Room Oaks ONLY – Pricing starts at $800
Mint Clubhouse Oaks ONLY – Pricing starts at $500
Orange Grandstand Oaks ONLY – Pricing starts at $250
Red Grandstand Oaks ONLY – Pricing starts at $150
Yellow Clubhouse Oaks ONLY – Pricing starts at $150
Green Grandstand Oaks ONLY – Pricing starts at $130

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Infield

Pricing starts at $25

Although there are few formal seating areas, you are allowed to bring your own folding chairs to the Infield. Located at the very center of the race track at Churchill Downs, you will be mingling with thousands of other fans that are there at this special opening of the Infield.

When you need a break from the Mardi Gras spirit of the Infield, you can explore the rest of Churchill Downs. You will have plenty of chances to mingle during the day before the race and visit the indoor facilities. There are also standing room only options for this general admission Kentucky Derby ticket.

Just like ticket holders to the Grandstand and the Club Houses, you will be able to buy food and drinks, place a bet, and meet the finest dressed citizens of the world.

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2012 Kentucky Derby Celebrations

Published On Dec 29, 2011

Most of the world is familiar with the Kentucky Derby, but few are aware of the local treasures contained in what is referred to as the Kentucky Derby Festival.

Local schoolchildren in Louisville, Kentucky will tell you that Derby begins with the first day of Spring. As a matter of fact, Louisville does seem to socially blossom around March 21. Around the Earth Day Celebrations in early April, a season of social events that the public is invited to begin. Also at the first of April, the town is overcome by a multiple public Easter events and this seems to set the stage for the 15 days of the Kentucky Derby Festival leading up to May 5.