Kentucky Derby 2024: What to know about the first leg of horse racing's Triple Crown

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The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday at the storied Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. 

Traditionally held on the first Saturday in May, the Derby marks the first leg of the Triple Crown. The 20-horse field features only 3-year-olds running the 1 ¼ mile stampede for a chance to compete for their share of the $5 million purse. 

May 6, 2023; Louisville, KY, USA; People place bets in the infield at Churchill Downs on Derby Day on Saturday, May 6, 2023, in Louisville, Ky. (Albert Cesare-USA TODAY Sports)

Notably absent from this year’s race will be Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, who’s two-year ban was extended through 2024, making this the third Kentucky Derby that a Baffert-trained horse will not be competing. 

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A six-time winner at the Derby, Baffert was banned after 2021 Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit was stripped of the title following a failed postrace drug test. 

Here’s what else you need to know about the gates drop at Churchill Downs.

Visitors check out the new $200 million paddock at Churchill Downs Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in Louisville, Ky. The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 4.  (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

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Kentucky Derby entrant Fierceness works out at Churchill Downs Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Louisville, Ky. The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 4.  (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Fierceness, the Todd Pletcher-trained colt, is the 3-1 favorite to win.