I'll give you some basic facts. The Kentucky Derby, which is now run at a mile-and-a-quarter was originally run at a mile-and-a-half. In 1896, the Derby was shortened by a quarter of a mile. The first Kentucky Derby occurred on May 17, 1875 with less than 8,000 people in attendance. Today the Kentucky Derby is the most viewed horse race in the world. It is estimated that 12 million people will watch the Kentuck Derby on that first Saturday in May. There was only one horse to run the Kentucky Derby at sub-2 minutes. That was the great Secretariat in 1973, who obviously went on to win the Triple Crown. The first televised Kentucky Derby took place in 1952. There are a lot more Derby facts available. It is one of the most prestigious sports events in the world. If you're really intrigued by the Derby, check out www.horseracegame.com. This is a great site tied to a great virtual racing game. Here you can ride and train the old and current Kentucky Derby contenders. There is also a great book entitled "My Derby, My Dream" written by Beth Hamayoon. Beth does a great job at capturing the glory and honor associated with this phenomenal race.