In the early 1940’s there was a term coined in the horse world, and it’s so well known now you might not even realize it’s still a fairly new saying. However, before we go there I want to take you back in time to May 17, 1875. Fifteen well bred, and very well trained 3 year old Thoroughbreds took to the racetrack for the first ever Kentucky Derby. I like to think the jockeys, and horse owners had no idea what a spectacle they were starting, but I’m sure they knew. 150 years later, and we are still preparing for this very race. This year’s Kentucky Derby is on May 4, tune in to watch the race on TV, YouTube, TikTok and more.

That being said, the Kentucky Derby is the first of 3 races. Most horses win one, if the odds are in their favor, two races, and rarely a third. However, for the 3year old horses that won all three races, the announcers and radio casters coined the term “Triple Crown” in the 1940’s, to abbreviate the three race win. It wasn’t until December of 1950 that the trio of races was formally named the “Triple Crown”.

The second race relocates from Churchill Downs, to Pimlico Race Course in Maryland for the Preakness Stakes. This dirt race is slightly shorter than the Kentucky Derby, but this is a quick back to back race date making it harder on the horses due to the tight schedule. This is part of the obstacles in front of horse and jockeys as they suit up in their silks for race day. Many favorites decide this race whether or not they’re trying for a Triple Crown win. There have only been 149 Preakness Stakes, but it’s a joy to watch all the same.

Finally, the Belmont Stakes. We take our fascinators, fun outfits and bubbly to Saratoga Race Course in New York. This is the longest race of the Triple Crown, and it happens just 5 weeks after the Kentucky Derby. Just to recap, the horses race the Kentucky Derby, train and recover for two weeks, run the Preakness Stakes, and then three weeks later they’re back running the long Belmont. This years run will be the 156th Belmont Stakes hosted. If you’re not familiar, this is the race that Secretariat won by 31 lengths the year he won the Triple Crown.

Today, only 13 horses have won the honor we all affectionately call the “Triple Crown”, and those horses will leave a tremendous hoofprint in our sport. From being well known stallions after their race days, or advocates for a sport under constant scrutiny, or even pasture pets for the public to visit. These animals live extremely pampered lives despite the media’s negative spotlight on the sport. Take a look at the likes of American Pharoah and California Chrome.

I am excited as ever for race season, because it perfectly matches up with polo season. Both old sports, for equestrians and horse enthusiasts alike. Feel free to let me know your derby plans, who your favorites are and whos going to win, place or show?