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Kentucky Derby 2026: Longshots and Historical Upsets | Cavaliers Face Uncertain Future Amidst Harden's Playoff Struggles | UFC 328: Jose Ochoa vs. Clayton Carpenter Preview | José Ochoa Returns to UFC 328: Fight Details and Analysis | Mercury vs. Aces: WNBA 2026 Season Opener Preview | Lecce vs Juventus: Serie A Clash with Champions League Implications | Real Sociedad vs. Real Betis: Clash for European Aspirations | Guardiola Praises Jeremy Doku's Improvement at Man City | Bears Rookie Minicamp: Legacy Connections and Veteran Tryouts | Kentucky Derby 2026: Longshots and Historical Upsets | Cavaliers Face Uncertain Future Amidst Harden's Playoff Struggles | UFC 328: Jose Ochoa vs. Clayton Carpenter Preview | José Ochoa Returns to UFC 328: Fight Details and Analysis | Mercury vs. Aces: WNBA 2026 Season Opener Preview | Lecce vs Juventus: Serie A Clash with Champions League Implications | Real Sociedad vs. Real Betis: Clash for European Aspirations | Guardiola Praises Jeremy Doku's Improvement at Man City | Bears Rookie Minicamp: Legacy Connections and Veteran Tryouts

Sports / Horse Racing

Kentucky Derby 2026: Longshots and Historical Upsets

The Kentucky Derby is known for its unpredictable nature, and the 2026 race is no exception. History shows that betting on the favorite isn't always a sure thing. This year, with Great White going off at 50-1, it's worth revisiting some of...

The Kentucky Derby keeps proving one thing: Don’t trust the favorite
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Kentucky Derby 2026: Longshots and Historical Upsets Image via USA Today

Key Insights

  • **Donerail (1913):** Won at 91-1 odds, the largest upset in Derby history. A $2 win ticket paid $184.90.
  • **Rich Strike (2022):** An 80-1 longshot, added to the field as an alternate, and won, paying $132.40 on a $2 ticket.
  • **Country House (2019):** Won after Maximum Security's disqualification at 65-1 odds.
  • **Giacomo (2005):** Won at 50-1 odds, with a $2 ticket paying $102.60.
  • **Mine That Bird (2009):** Another 50-1 longshot, winning by 6 3/4 lengths.

In-Depth Analysis

The Kentucky Derby has a rich history of longshots defying expectations. Donerail's 1913 victory remains the most significant upset, with the horse overcoming difficult pre-race conditions to win at 91-1 odds. More recently, Rich Strike's 2022 win as an 80-1 longshot reminded everyone that anything is possible. These races demonstrate that factors beyond odds, such as jockey skill, track conditions, and sheer luck, can play a significant role in determining the outcome.

The Kentucky Derby, often called 'The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,' is the oldest continuously running sporting event in the United States. Held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, the race is 1 1/4 miles long and features three-year-old thoroughbreds. While colts typically dominate, fillies have occasionally won, including Regret (1915), Genuine Risk (1980), and Winning Colors (1988).

The Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. Only 13 horses have achieved the Triple Crown, a testament to the difficulty of winning all three races.

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FAQ

What was the biggest upset in Kentucky Derby history?

Donerail's win in 1913 at 91-1 odds.

How often do longshots win the Kentucky Derby?

While less common, significant longshot victories occur periodically, highlighting the race's unpredictability.

Takeaways

  • The Kentucky Derby is a reminder that underdogs can triumph. While favorites often draw the most attention, longshots have a proven history of defying the odds. When watching the race, remember that any horse has the potential to surprise.

Discussion

Do you think a longshot will win the Kentucky Derby this year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Disclaimer

This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.

All content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Yanuki makes no representations or warranties regarding the reliability or completeness of the information.

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Always do your own research (DYOR) before making any decisions based on the information presented.