Kentucky Derby 2017: How each horse got their name
The field for the 2017 Kentucky Derby is set. Before the contenders run for the roses, we take a look at how each thoroughbred earned their name.
The field is set, the hats are purchased, and the bugler is warming up. Everything is falling into place. The 143rd run for the roses at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is setting up to be a great event, as always. But, before the horses and jockeys take their starting positions for “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” we wanted to get to know the thoroughbreds better.
Ever wonder how the horses received their names? Some of their titles are rather interesting. Take, for example, members in this year’s field. You have Classic Empire, who is the early favorite, McCracken, Tapwrit, Irap, and Hence.
Each name must be approved by the Jockey Club, with a list of six preferred names provided by the horses 2-year-old year. Each name is limited to certain rules.
- Up to 18 characters, including spaces and punctuation.
- No initials.
- No names of actual persons unless written permission granted.
- No commercial significance, thus no horse named “FanSided.com.”
- No names of a suggestive or vulgar nature.
These are just some of the rules owners must follow. Here is how the 2017 field, in post order, earned their names.
Posts 1 through 4
1. Lookin At Lee (20-1): Known as a horse that starts in the back and closes, Lookin At Lee draws his name from his sire, Lookin At Lucky, with the “Lee” from Lee Levinson, part owner. Looking at Lucky was winner of the 2009 Preakness Stakes. Here is hoping his colt will make him proud.
2. Thunder Snow (20-1): A horse bred in Ireland and winner of the UAE Derby, Thunder Snow is know for his cold-hearted speed when an all-out sprint is needed. According to trainer, Saeed bin Suroor, there is no story behind the name.
3. Fast And Accurate (50-1): Bred out of the line of Breeder’s Cup winner Hansen, and mare It’s Heidi’s Dance. The Kentucky Derby hopeful’s name is a play off the medical skills of it’s owner, Dr. Kendall Hansen. World Champion Skier Bode Miller is a minority owner of the colt.
4. Untrapped (30-1): The Dark Bay horse is owned by Michael Langford and trained by Steve Asmussen. The name Untrapped is a play on the names of his sire, Trappe Shot, and dam, Exit Three. If you “exit” a “trap,” you become “untrapped.” It is his opponents that need to be on the alert, as Untrapped has won one of his four races, but finished second in the other three.