Kentucky Derby Sets New Record: $211 Million in Bets
ICYMI, Mystik Dan Won the 150th Kentucky Derby by a Nose!
Next Up: Preakness Stakes
The Kentucky Derby, often hailed as “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” made betting news headlines once again as it shattered previous betting records during its 150th installment.
The total handle for the first leg of the 2024 Triple Crown soared to an unprecedented $210.7 million, a remarkable increase from the $188.7 million recorded in 2023.
This surge in sports betting activity underscores the enduring popularity and allure of horse racing, particularly the historic Derby event.
All sources betting on @KentuckyDerby 150 Day was a record $320.5 mil, up from last year’s mark of $288.7 mil. The race had a record $210.7 mil ($10.1 mil in Japan), beating 2023’s $188.7 mil. Derby Week betting rose to a record $446.6 mil. Thank you, horseplayers & Derby fans! pic.twitter.com/4xWvn4JWQW
— Churchill Downs PR (@DerbyMedia) May 5, 2024
Organic Growth in Horse Racing Fans
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that no new states have legalized horse racing betting in recent months.
With legal betting already established in 40 states, the surge in online gambling activity reflects a genuine increase in interest and enthusiasm for the sport.
The fervor surrounding the Kentucky Derby was not confined to American soil alone. A significant portion of the total bets, amounting to $10.1 million, originated from Japan—a testament to the global reach and expanding popularity of horse racing.
The inclusion of two Japan-bred horses in the race, Forever Young and T O Password, further solidified the Derby’s status as an internationally renowned sporting event.
The fact that enthusiasts from around the world were eagerly betting online underscores the universal appeal of the Derby and its ability to transcend geographical boundaries.
Will @kazushi0096 and T O Password be the duo that finally brings the Kentucky Derby to Japan? 🌹🇯🇵#KyDerby | #テーオーパスワード | #競馬 pic.twitter.com/oiQMfnNhlI
— World Horse Racing (@WHR) May 2, 2024
This natural growth really shows how horse racing has that timeless charm, you know? It’s got this way of hooking people in, whether they’re from the good ol’ USA or anywhere else in the world.
Winner Could Miss Next Race
Mystik Dan, the unexpected 18-1 underdog, clinched a nail-biting victory in the Derby, narrowly edging out competitors Sierra Leone and Forever Young in the closest finish since 1947.
Watch the overview of Mystik Dan’s trip. #KyDerby pic.twitter.com/C7LeoPA79B
— Kentucky Derby (@KentuckyDerby) May 5, 2024
Trainer Kenny McPeek and the horse’s owners remained undecided about Mystik Dan’s participation in the upcoming 149th Preakness on May 18 in Baltimore, given the demanding two-week turnaround. Instead, Mystik Dan will head to Saratoga, New York, where a decision will be made regarding his entry into the 1 3/16-mile Preakness.
McPeek emphasized the need to monitor Mystik Dan’s condition closely over the coming week before making a final call, recalling a previous instance where racing the colt within a two-week time frame had backfired.
The decision regarding Mystik Dan’s Preakness participation will likely be made at the eleventh hour.
For gambling news, odds analysis, and more, visit Point Spreads Sports Magazine.
