Kentucky Derby: 148th Running Recap

Historic Win for Rich Strike

On Saturday, May 7, 2022, Rich Strike, an 80-1 longshot, shocked the racing world by winning the 148th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The victory marked the second-biggest upset in the race's history, only behind Donerail's historic win in 1913.

Ridden by jockey Sonny Leon, Rich Strike surged past Epicenter and Zandon in the final stretch to claim the coveted victory. The win was especially stunning given that Rich Strike had only competed in three races prior to the Derby and was making his first start at Churchill Downs.

Race Details

The 1.25-mile race saw a field of 20 three-year-old thoroughbreds compete for the famous gold-plated trophy. Epicenter, the race favorite, set a slow pace early on, but Rich Strike remained close throughout the race. As the horses approached the final turn, Zandon made a strong move but was unable to shake Rich Strike. In the stretch, Leon guided Rich Strike past Epicenter and Zandon to secure the stunning victory.

Rich Strike's win is a testament to the unpredictability of the Kentucky Derby and the ability of any horse to pull off an upset on the first Saturday in May.