The Kentucky Derby race itself lasts about two minutes, which is why it is famously nicknamed "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports." The race covers a distance of 1¼ miles (10 furlongs) and is run as a single lap around Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky
. The exact time can vary slightly each year depending on the conditions and the horses, but the average winning time since 2013 is around 2:02.69. The fastest time ever recorded was by Secretariat in 1973, who completed the race in 1:59.40, a record that still stands
. In summary:
- Distance: 1¼ miles (10 furlongs)
- Typical duration: about 2 minutes
- Fastest time: 1:59.40 by Secretariat in 1973
- The race is a single lap around Churchill Downs
The event surrounding the race, including festivities and other races, lasts much longer, but the Kentucky Derby race itself is a thrilling, fast-paced contest lasting just over two minutes.
