The 147th running of the Kentucky Derby proved to be a historic event, as record-breaking numbers were reported in both betting and TV viewership. The annual event, held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, saw a surge in interest and excitement this year as fans returned to the iconic racetrack after last year’s race was held without spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Kentucky Derby, known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” lived up to its reputation as the top three-year-old Thoroughbreds in the country competed for the coveted garland of roses. Essential Quality, a favorite to win the race, faced tough competition from Mandaloun, Hot Rod Charlie, and Medina Spirit. In a thrilling finish, Medina Spirit, ridden by jockey John Velazquez and trained by Bob Baffert, clinched the victory by a half-length, giving Baffert his record-breaking seventh Kentucky Derby win.
But it wasn’t just the on-track action that had fans buzzing – the betting numbers for the race were also through the roof. According to Churchill Downs, a total of $155.4 million was wagered on the Kentucky Derby, surpassing the previous record of $165.5 million set in 2019. The handle for the day’s races at Churchill Downs exceeded $250 million, making it one of the most lucrative days in the track’s history.
In addition to the increased betting numbers, TV viewership for the Kentucky Derby also saw a significant uptick. NBC Sports, which has broadcasted the race for over 20 years, reported that the 2021 Derby had an average viewership of 14.5 million, making it the most-watched Derby since 1989. The broadcast also saw a 36% increase in viewership among adults aged 18-49, indicating a growing interest in the sport among younger demographics.
“We are thrilled with the record-breaking numbers we saw for this year’s Kentucky Derby,” said Churchill Downs Racetrack President Mike Anderson. “The excitement and energy at the track were palpable, and we were thrilled to welcome fans back to Churchill Downs after a challenging year. We are grateful for the support of our fans, both in person and watching from home, and we look forward to building on this success in the years to come.”
As the dust settles on the 2021 Kentucky Derby, one thing is clear – the sport of horse racing is as popular as ever, and the Derby remains a can’t-miss event for fans and bettors alike. With the prestigious horse race continuing to capture the imagination of the public, the future looks bright for this iconic American tradition.
