Record-Breaking Bets at the 150th Kentucky Derby

Impressive Financial Outcomes

The total wagering from all sources on the Kentucky Derby Day program soared to $320.5 million, an 11.1% increase from the previous year’s $288.7 million, setting a new all-time record.

This surge in betting was highlighted by an all-sources wager on the Kentucky Derby race itself, which achieved a new record of $210.7 million, surpassing last year’s high of $188.7 million. The Derby Week’s overall betting handle also hit a new record at $446.6 million, eclipsing the previous year’s $412 million.

Historic Crowd and Race Highlights

A crowd of 156,710 fans gathered at Churchill Downs in Louisville, making it one of the largest audiences since the record-setting attendance in 2015. The fans witnessed an exhilarating race where Mystik Dan, guided by jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. and trained by Kenneth McPeek, clinched the victory in a nail-biting three-horse photo finish.

Mystik Dan’s triumph in 2:03.34 over a fast track was a significant highlight, especially following his team’s success in both the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby.

Statements from Leadership

Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI, expressed optimism about the financial returns from the event, projecting that Kentucky Derby Week’s Adjusted EBITDA will reflect substantial growth, estimating an increase of $26 to $28 million over the previous record. “As we reflect on 150 years of our storied past, we remain committed to innovating new experiences for Derby fans,” Carstanjen stated, emphasizing the ongoing evolution of the event.

The 2024 Derby also saw the debut of the newly renovated Paddock, featuring luxury seating areas such as The Woodford Reserve Paddock Club and Sports Illustrated’s Club SI. “The new Paddock has fundamentally enhanced the experience of all of our guests as they pass through our front gates and is a stepping stone to the next chapter of this time-honored event,” Carstanjen added.

Betting Insights and International Participation

TwinSpires, the official betting partner of the Kentucky Derby, also reported record figures, with $92.1 million wagered on Churchill Downs races during the Derby Day, surpassing last year’s total of $75.5 million. This included all settled future wagers and affiliate betting.

Furthermore, the participation of international contenders like Forever Young and T O Password from Japan added a global flair to the event, with all-sources wagering from Japan reaching a new high of $10.1 million.