The top 5 Fastest Times in kentucky Derby History

By Jayson Panganiban April 10, 2024 15:09

Photo by Churchill Downs / Kinetic Corp.

The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as "The Run for the Roses," is a prestigious horse racing event that has captivated audiences for decades.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this event is the speed at which the winning horses complete the race.

1. Secretariat - 1973

Fastest Time: 1:59.40

Secretariat is an iconic name in the world of horse racing. The immortal Secretariat not only holds the fastest Kentucky Derby time but also the fastest Preakness and Belmont times as well.

In 1973, he won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes, achieving the prestigious Triple Crown.

Secretariat's incredible speed and dominance on the track have solidified his place as one of the greatest racehorses of all time.

He won the hearts of millions and continues to be celebrated as a symbol of excellence in the sport.

2. Monarchos - 2001

Fastest Time: 1:59.97

Monarchos, the second fastest horse in Kentucky Derby history, achieved an impressive victory in 2001 with a time of 1:59.97.

While not as widely recognized as Secretariat, Monarchos' remarkable speed and agility on the track have etched his name into the annals of horse racing history.

His performance in the Kentucky Derby solidified his status as a remarkable competitor, coming tantalizingly close to Secretariat's record-setting time.

3. Northern Dancer - 1964

Fastest Time: 2:00.00

Northern Dancer, a Canadian-bred Thoroughbred, left an indelible mark on the horse racing world with his swift victory in the 1964 Kentucky Derby.

Despite finishing 3rd in the subsequent Belmont Stakes, his remarkable speed in the Kentucky Derby secured his place as one of the fastest horses in the event's history.

4. Spend a Buck - 1985

Fastest Time: 2:00.20

Spend a Buck caused a stir in the horse racing community when his connections chose to skip the Preakness and Belmont Stakes after his Kentucky Derby win

Instead, they pointed him towards the Jersey Derby, where he claimed victory and a substantial $2 million bonus.

While Spend a Buck's decision to bypass the traditional Triple Crown races sparked controversy, his speed and tenacity in the Kentucky Derby earned him a lasting place among the fastest horses in the event's history.

5. Decidedly - 1962

Fastest Time: 2:00.40

Decidedly, sired by Determine, made a significant impact on the Kentucky Derby in 1962 with a remarkable time of 2:00.40.

Despite a less stellar overall career, Decidedly's standout performance in the Kentucky Derby solidified his place among the fastest horses to grace the Churchill Downs track.

His legacy extends beyond his own racing career, as he went on to sire nineteen stake race winners, leaving a lasting imprint on the sport of horse racing.

On the whole, these exceptional horses, each with their unique stories and achievements, have left an enduring legacy in the world of horse racing.

As we continue to witness new triumphs on the track, these top 5 fastest times in Kentucky Derby history serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and excellence in the sport of horse racing.