Kentucky Derby: The history of the races and long standing traditions

Woodford Reserve assistant master distiller Elizabeth McCall shows Shannon Bream and Janice Dean how to make the classic Kentucky Derby cocktail.

The Kentucky Derby has a lengthy history as the longest running sporting event in the United States. It dates all the way back to 1875, when 15 thoroughbred horses raced 1.5 miles in front of 10,000 spectators for the very first Kentucky Derby.

Now, the Kentucky Derby is an event that is not only attended by thousands each year, including many A-list celebrities, but also an event that is watched by millions at home. Many get involved with the two-minute race each year, while watching, throwing parties or placing bets.

Read more on the history of the Kentucky Derby.

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The Kentucky Derby dates all the way back to 1875.  (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

The Kentucky Derby was started by the grandson of William Clark of Lewis and Clark.

Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. kicked off the Kentucky Derby, according to the Kentucky Derby website. He was inspired to bring a horse racing event to the United States after visiting the Epsom Derby in England, which started in 1780.

With the help of his uncles, John and Henry Churchill who gifted him the land for the racetrack, he brought his vision to life.

Clark raised funds through a group called he started called Louisville Jockey Club. In 1875, 10,000 people gathered to watch the first ever Kentucky Derby which was won by Aristides, according to the site.

The Kentucky Derby has always taken place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

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The Kentucky Derby is located at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This has been the