How to bet 2024 Kentucky Derby: Chris 'The Bear' Fallica's expert picks, best bets

"Bear Bets" are real wagers that Chris "The Bear" Fallica is actually making.

Every year, sports fans shift their attention to Louisville on the first Saturday in May for the Kentucky Derby. There’s just something incredibly special about the event dubbed "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports."

This is the 150th "Run for the Roses," and regardless of whether you indulge in a few Mint Juleps, there is fun to be had for all — particularly when it comes to laying a few wagers. 

So, let's jump into the action.

(Disclaimer: To keep it simple, I'll lead with my picks first).

My Betting Card

Primer on all the horses (position, horse, odds)

1. Dornoch (20-1)

I want no part of him here as the rail draw completely eliminates his chances. Even if he was drawn better, I don’t think I’d be using him, as he hasn’t improved since last year when he rode a bias to a win over Sierra Leone. But he will factor into the flow of the race since Luis Saez will have to ride him hard to the lead, ensuring Fierceness has company up front. 

2. Sierra Leone (3-1)

He may prove to be the best 3-year-old of the bunch, but the draw really hurt his chances. Yes, he’s a closer. But the fact he’s drawn inside means he’s going to have to avoid getting slammed at the start, falling to the rear and work out a trip to pass 19 horses. Everything has to go perfectly, which seems highly unlikely. Since 1978 Triple Crown winner Affirmed last won from PP No. 2, there have been 11 top-five betting choices to break from that position. They finished 10th, third, third, 11th, 10th, eighth, 13th, 10th, third, last and third. In that span, five were top-two choices, as Sierra Leone will be. Not even Curlin, one of the best horses of his generation, could