Tradition of Excellence

This year was the 149th annual Kentucky Derby. Raced at Churchill Downs in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, this race features the fastest race horses from around the world. The race is the first of three prestigious horse races in America that–if won all together–make a triple crown. The Derby has many preliminary races before the main event,which roughly 150,000 people attended this year. In the crowds, women have a tradition of wearing the most colossal feathered hats flaunting the colorful charm of the south. Churchill Downs presents southern classic finger food and hors d’oeuvres such as pimento cheese sandwiches and deviled eggs. Upon hearing of all the festivities at Churchill Downs, Life Editor at Rampage and Ramapo Senior Emily Jedell said, “Between all the fashion, yummy food, and celebrities I would love to go someday.” Jedell is not alone along with much of Ramapo that envies this event.

Past Winners

In the past, Churchill Downs has seen some of the most historical race horses. One in particular was last year’s winner, Rich Strike. She was not even supposed to be in the race until another horse scratched but made the cut with 81-1 odds, meaning betting just $5 on this horse would’ve won betters $405. Office Secretary of Ramapo Mrs. Mola was envious of those odds, stating, “I wish I had bet the $2 exacta on that race because it would’ve paid over 4 grand!” Rich Strike might’ve only just won by a rich strike of luck, but other horses have proven their dominance in the triple crown. American Pharoah was the first in 38 years to win the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont races and bring home the triple crown. The final of the three, Belmont, is longer than that of the 1 ¼ races prior, so only the horses with the most stamina in history can win all 3, making it a near impossible feat. However, just two years later in 2018, Justify won a triple crown. The pair hold the closest two triple crowns in history apart from 1935 and 1937.

2023 Winner

Enough talk about last year, this year’s winner was Mage. The name Mage refers to one who conducts magic, and nothing is more magical than winning the Kentucky Derby. Mage is a chestnut-coated thoroughbred owned by Sterling Racing & Commonwealth. She was born in April 2020, as Kentucky Derby horses race during their prime at 3 years old. She ran a two minute and 1.57 second race to win against two co-favorites and other great horses (cnbc.com). In the Preakness three weeks later, Mage came third behind winner National Treasure to end her triple crown hopes. Nonetheless, Mage has made history as this year’s Kentucky Derby champion, and her name will be in the history books forever. She will either race in the Breeders cup or retire and live a tranquil life after her successful career.