Can you believe it? The Kentucky Derby is right around the corner. The Derby is one of the major icons of horse racing, and it unites horse lovers with those who come out for the festivities of the huge event. Here’s what we love about Kentucky Derby day.

The Potential for a Triple Crown Champion The Kentucky Derby winner stands poised to make history with a Triple Crown run. You can’t help but be pulled into the thrill of the possibility of the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed won the Triple Crown in 1978.

The Playing of My Old Kentucky Home It’s impossible not to be stirred by the strains of My Old Kentucky Home playing out across the Derby post parade – the effect of this song is evident in the faces of every jockey, trainer, and owner present, along with the crowd.

The Rich History The Kentucky Derby is steeped in history. Take a look around – some of the best trainers, horses, and jockeys have competed in this very event.

The Top-Quality Horses Look out across any Derby field and you’re seeing the best of the best three-year-old racehorses in the world. These superstar athletes are fit, sleek, and absolutely gorgeous. Even if you’re not a racing fan, you can’t help but drool over the quality horses in the running.

Mint Juleps You can’t beat mint, sugar, bourbon, and ice on a warm May day. The traditional Mint Julep Derby drink is perfect for Derby parties if you’re not lucky enough to attend the Derby in person.

Derby Hats If the race isn’t entertaining enough for you, take a look at the wild assortment of hats that are Derby tradition. From elegant to extravagant, the Derby hats are a competition in their own right.

The Odds If you’re a bettor, the Kentucky Derby is not a race you’ll want to miss. Even those who don’t typically bet can get into the spirit with a $1 or $2 bet on their favorite horse.

The Racing Names You can’t beat horse racing names for entertainment. From Mine That Bird to Funny Cide to Cigar to Secretariat, the Derby is host to striking and memorable names. Looking for a horse to bet on? Pick the one with the name that calls to you.

The Superstars In the Kentucky Derby, horses become superstars. Barbaro, Real Quiet, Sunday Silence – suddenly these horses gain national fame. And, at least until the next race, they have the chance of achieving superstardom with a Triple Crown sweep.

Those Two Minutes The Derby is rightly referred to as the greatest two minutes in sports. If you’re present for the heart-pounding two minutes, you’ll know why. The Derby is an experience that you just can’t beat.

Original Source: http://blog.classic-equine.com/2015/05/top-10-greatest-things-about...