2024 Kentucky Derby: Meet the Horses Running for the Roses

The Big Names

With the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby just around the corner, the excitement is building. This year's race features a field of 20 talented horses, including some of the top contenders from across the country. One of the favorites is Fierceness, a 5-2 shot who will be ridden by three-time Derby champion John Velazquez. Other contenders include Epic Ride, who won the Breeders' Cup Juvenile last year, and Forte, who won the Florida Derby earlier this year.

The Underdogs

While the favorites will get most of the attention, there are a few underdogs who could surprise on Derby Day. One of these is Crown Pride, a Japanese-bred horse who has won three of his four starts. Another is Tiz the Bomb, a late bloomer who has won two of his last three races. With a little luck, one of these underdogs could pull off an upset and win the Run for the Roses.