Sarah Neel showcases some of the Indiana Authors Award books at the Warsaw Community Public Library. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Public Library.

By Melissa Chapman
Circulation Supervisor
Warsaw Community Public Library

WARSAW — What is the greatest two minutes in sports? The answer is the Kentucky Derby, whose day is possibly the biggest of all the horse racing in the United States.

On the first Saturday in May (that’s May 6, 2023) spectators will flock to the see an elite group of jockeys and horses in the 149th running of the derby.

Steeped in tradition, the derby is the first step in the Triple Crown of horse racing. It is held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. Each year approximately 155,000 people attend this all-day event, which culminates in a roughly two-minute race. Guests like to be dressed up in their most derby-appropriate attire.

If we were to be honest, the derby is not all about horses; it is all about fashion as well — extravagant hats and fascinators, stylish accessories and the wondrous dresses full of bold colors, florals and patterns galore.

Meriwether Lewis Clark (yes, his grandfather was part of the well-known duo expedition) started the derby in 1872 with the help of his uncles, John and Henry Churchill, who secured the funding to build a race track just south of Louisville. It was officially named Churchill Downs in 1928, and the rest is history.

Interestingly, the majority of jockeys are men. In comparison to the hundreds of men who have competed, only six women have participated, with none winning.

The derby is the oldest continuous sporting event in the United States. The red rose is the race’s official flower with the mint julep being the drink of choice. Also, burgoo, a thick stew of beef, chicken, pork and vegetables, is a popular Kentucky dish served at the derby.

The Kentucky Derby can be an exciting and new opportunity for kids to learn all about horse racing, horse breeds, jockeys and more. Below are some ideas on how to celebrate the derby if you are unable to attend the festivities.

Watch it on television. Have a derby party. Make mint juleps. Visit local farms or horse stables in your area. Ride horses with your kids while teaching them all about the history of the Kentucky Derby. Make your own derby hat — the flashier the better.

And don’t forget to visit the Warsaw Community Public Library for information to help make your day special. The best part of the day is the time one spends with friends and family.