One of the most important races for everyone who follows equestrian sports is upon us: the Kentucky Derby, which has been held on the first Saturday of May ever since 1875, is back.
Winning the Derby is a prestigious achievement and a huge achievement within the sport. It is also a career-defining moment for the owners and trainers of Kentucky Derby starters, but the icing on the cake is the large $3 million purse that is awarded to the top five horses and their riders.
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The Derby, which kicks off the Triple Crown Series, is the first event in the series with the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes to follow in subsequent weeks. A total of 35 horses will make their way across the track at Churchill Downs, but only the top 20 finishers will earn a spot in the event.
With the highly-anticipated race just days away, here's a look at the $3 million purse and how it's distributed amongst the winners:
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Who gets a part of the Kentucky Derby purse in 2023?
Twenty equines compete in the one-and-a-quarter-mile event, but only the top five finishers in the race will share the cash prize.
How much is the Kentucky Derby purse in 2023?
This two-minute race is one of the most watched in the United States, with the total purse ringing in at $3 million.
How much money does the Kentucky Derby winner take home?
The first-place winner will get $1.86 million, while the jockey will take home $186,000.
The second-place finisher will take home $600,000, with the jockey taking home $30,000. For third place, the finisher will be awarded $300,000, with the jockey earning $15,000. The rider earns $4,500 for being in fourth place, and the owner receives $150,000. The jockey in fifth place wins $2,500 and the owner receives $90,000.
How does the Kentucky Derby purse compare to other Triple Crown races?
The Kentucky Derby, which brings in a $3 million purse, is the highest purse of the Triple Crown races. The Belmont Stakes comes closely behind with a $1.5 million purse. The Preakness Stakes is the lowest of the three, with a $990,000 purse.