The glitz and dirt of the Kentucky Derby. Today is...

http://www.anddownthestretchtheycome.com/entries-post-positions-odds/2014/4/30/5666950/kentucky-derby-2014-entries-post-positions-odds

Photo Credit: Doug Pensinger

"And they're off...," the most awaited words of the day! The Kentucky Derby -- America's most prestigious horse race -- is run annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs' historic dirt track in Louisville, Kentucky. The 2014 Kentucky Derby takes place today Saturday, May 3. Gates will open at 8 AM on Derby Day with the post time for the first race set at 10:30 AM. The approximate post time for the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby will be 6:24 PM.

"It's the race that never stops -- come rain, hail or sleet."

Known as "The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports" for its approximate run time, the Derby is the first race in horse racing's coveted Triple Crown, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

http://www.nj.com/horse-racing/index.ssf/2014/05/kentucky_derby_2014_an_in-depth_look_at_all_20_contenders.html

Contender: Intense Holiday

Contender: California Chrome
WINNER!

Contender: Dance with Fate

Embrace the Past...

The First Kentucky Derby
May 17, 1875

1942 Kentucky Derby,
Churchill Downs

On May 17, 1875, the horse, Aristides, and his rider, Oliver Lewis, crossed the finish line ahead of the rest of the field at the first ever Kentucky Derby. The horse's owner, H.P. McGrath, and a roaring crowd in the stands looked on. Aristides, a Thoroughbred named after an ancient Greek general, earned extra alfalfa that day in Louisville. What would you have seen in Louisville that first race day?

You might have seen well-groomed Thoroughbreds--a cross between Arabian stallions and European mares--along with 15 fine jockeys, 13 of whom, including Oliver Lewis, were African American. You also would have seen cheering crowds sitting anxiously in the bleachers around the track built in 1874 by Meriweather Lewis Clark.
Source: America's Story

And, it is not just about the horses!

Ladies: Wear a hat. Just do it. You'll regret it if you don't.

Men: You don't have to go for the full seersucker suit and hat, but at least put on something flashy or bright. That's part of what makes Derby so much fun!

Don't forget to enjoy a slice of Derby Pie before, during or after the race! Below are a couple of recipes...